Giving older games a second life

It is almost a yearly ritual at this point. Nostalgic feelings gnaw away at the recesses of my mind, compelling me to go back and re-experience the great games of my youth. Looking at the screenshot below, you would be forgiven for thinking that this was a current generation game. That is where the modding community comes in. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim has to be the best showcase of what enthusiastic and talented gamers can accomplish. This 14 year old game is within striking distance of the greats. Although I wonder if that would still be the case if I were to remove the 300+ modifications installed; reverting back to the true vanilla Skyrim experience?

Everything from the wildlife, to the combat, to the beads of sweat that matte my fur, have been re-created in eye watering detail or built from scratch as additional free content. Not by the developers, but gamers. The true game then becomes downloading, installing and testing everything. Getting it all to play nice with an aged game engine. Every additional install only increases the risk of a computer melt down. When asked how many mods are too many to install, the answer is simple; "One less than what breaks the game".

This is the true Skyrim experience!

My Khajiit character with his vampire companion.

As I delve deeper into the dungeon, I am faced with moral dilemmas that can mimic real life scenarios. Often times the consequences feel just as valid. Similar to a favourite movie or novel. You get invested in the characters and the time you have spent with them.

Single player role playing games like The Elder Scrolls series, are the purest form of escapism for me. A world so removed from what we have become accustomed to in our daily lives. Even a single player game can have its social aspects. Whether you are a Modder yourself, or perhaps you lend your voice to a custom made character. There is a place for everyone.

I descend even deeper, pillaging my way towards the throne room. My feline character makes a daring escape towards the exit, out into the glaring sunlight. Climbing onto his horse, I cringe at the strangled sound coming from my computer. The latest download allows my companion to climb on behind me. It works flawlessly. No technical melt down this time. Onwards we trot to the nearby village. I let my characters have a rest while I save, quit out and head to the gym.

I look forward to our next adventure...