Home
/
AAA games
/
AAA game reviews
/

Which skyrim version should you play first? special or anniversary?

Choosing the Right Version of Skyrim | New Gamers Seek Clarity

By

Liam Bennett

May 1, 2025, 04:53 AM

Edited By

Carlos Gomez

Snappy read

Side-by-side comparison of Skyrim Special Edition and Anniversary Edition showing key differences in mod support

A rising debate among gamers centers on which version of Skyrim to play first, especially for newcomers. As more players consider jumping into Bethesda's iconic game, questions about the differences between the Special Edition and Anniversary Edition are gaining traction.

The Context of the Debate

With many players, like a new gamer who has enjoyed titles like Witcher 3, pondering their first entry into Skyrim, the discussion looks at mod support and content differences. "Money isnโ€™t the issue," they say, emphasizing the desire for the best experience possible. The distinction between two main versionsโ€”Special Edition and Anniversary Editionโ€”has sparked interest.

Version Breakdown: Whatโ€™s the Difference?

Special Edition vs. Anniversary Edition

  1. Special Edition

    • Includes main game and three DLCs: Dawnguard, Hearthfire, and Dragonborn.

    • Enhanced graphics and mod support, particularly on Nexus.

  2. Anniversary Edition

    • Contains everything in Special Edition plus additional paid content from the latest update.

    • Offers new quests and features, appealing to players who want more content.

"Anniversary is regular special + the paid DLC from the patch," noted one comment.

Debating Mod Support

Many agree that mod support is key. A user pointed out that on mod sites, Special Edition is favored for its extensive mods enabled by the community. One comment stated, "So I suppose Special seems to be fine?" suggesting confidence in Special Edition's capabilities.

Key Takeaways

  • ๐Ÿ’ก Special Edition is solid for modders, offering extensive mod support.

  • โญ Anniversary Edition adds new content but may not drastically change mod potential.

  • โšก Users emphasize the community's role in shaping their gaming experience through mods.

Given the growing interest in Skyrim, potential players are weighing their options meticulously. While both versions possess their merits, itโ€™s clear that mod support and content vary significantly. As the dialogue around these versions continues to evolve, more gamers will seek clarity in their choice.