How can I maintain two separate Skyrim installations?

[Sumthang]

Hello folks,

 

I'm not sure if this is in the right section, please move it if it's not.

I recently tried out some SexLab mods, and did I get them working properly, but in the process I managed to create a complete clusterfuck of Skyrim backups and installations.

 

Basically, I have a heavily modded main installation. I want to keep that one clean of any naughty, 18+ stuff so can just play the regular game.

However, I also want to create a separate installation where I can tinker with SexLab mods.

 

The Nexus Mod Manager only seems to remember the settings of a single Skyrim installation. How do you folks keep these installations separate so mods don't screw up the wrong game?

[Akzyra]

Mod Organizer: Use two profiles, one with only the main mods you have and the NSWF with all mods activated. Don't delete mods, it will delete from both, only deactivate.

You may have to put the overwrite in a new mod: create for example  "Overwrite - Main" and "overwrite - sexlab" after generating all files for each profile (FNIS, Reproccer, SUM, etc...) For help with MO go to the thread over here. I recommend a clean skyrim install if switching to MO as i doesn't store anything in the skyrim folder itself. Fancy virtual directories

 

Manual: Two User-profiles on you computer with separate Steam Installations -> thus separate Skyrim Folders

Not so sure if it works with NMM (if, then separate NMM installs as well), manually it will work.

 

 

If you don't want a messed up mod order copy the Profile in "Mod Organizer\profiles" instead of creating one inside MO.

[RitualClarity]

Akzyra is correct. Use MO for your Skyrim Mod Managing needs.

Reload everything from scratch. Follow the instructions to set up a proper Skyrim folder and tools. Create your Profile(s). yes Profile(s). You can have many profiles not just one for the dirty stuff. You can have a many different play thorughs to suit your needs. Yes even several for testing the mods them-self. You can copy over the saves from other profiles and be able test from that point (an upgrade) to see if it works properly without messing up your game.

 

MO leaves nothing in your game folder. NO loose files or records. Nothing is changed. Nothing is harmed. You can change mods and even various textures as well on the "fly". Check out the MO Thread and post any questions you might have there. Check my sig. There are links to the manager and official forums and such for more info so you can make an educated decision.

[gvman3670]

Another vote for Mod Organizer. It is the best alternative available. It can easily allow you to have multiple characters/profiles each using a different set of mods. But it does a lot more and makes controlling mods a whole lot easier.

 

You really should consider using it. Every person modding Skyrim should use it.

[Sweatington]

MO Is the key. /Thread

[Uhuru N'Uru]

Say no more check my sig

 

except Ritual Clarity has the same links spoilered mines more in your face shouting it at you sig.

[Molevalence]

I just jumped on the MO boat a couple days ago and so far my games are much more stable than before. I have basic experience with mods and I still have much to learn but learning MO is probably one of the best choices you can make for modding games.+1 for MO.

[RitualClarity]

Say no more check my sig

 

except Ritual Clarity has the same links spoilered mines more in your face shouting it at you sig.

 

Yep. Walk silently and carry a big death ray... lol.