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SkyUI is one of the most popular mods for Skyrim, providing a powerful overhaul to the game’s user interface. However, many users encounter issues with SkyUI not functioning properly or at all, often showing “SkyUI Error Code 1” messages. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover what causes this error, how to correctly install SKSE64 and SkyUI, troubleshoot mod conflicts or installation problems, and ultimately get SkyUI working flawlessly with Skyrim Special Edition.
Understanding What Causes “SkyUI Error Code 1” Messages
When launching Skyrim after installing SkyUI, many users encounter an error message popup stating:
“SKSE64 runtime error (load plugin): Unable to open plugin SkyUI_SE.dll. Any SKSE plugins you have installed are not loaded. Error code: 1”
This frustrating error prevents SkyUI from functioning properly within Skyrim. SkyUI relies on the Skyrim Script Extender (SKSE64) mod to work correctly. So this error points to an underlying issue with SKSE64 not being set up right.
Specifically, there are three potential causes behind SkyUI error code 1 messages:
- Incorrect SKSE64 Version – SkyUI requires the latest version of SKSE64 corresponding to your Skyrim build (1.6+) to work. Outdated or wrong SKSE64 versions cause this error.
- Improper SKSE64 Installation – The error can also occur if SKSE64 mod files are not correctly installed into Skyrim’s data folder structure.
- Mod Conflicts – Sometimes other UI overhaul mods conflicting with SkyUI files leads to error code 1.
Below we will go through solutions for each cause, ensuring you ultimately install both SKSE64 and SkyUI correctly without conflicts for full functionality.
How to Install SKSE64 Correctly for Skyrim Special Edition
Since the Skyrim Script Extender is required for SkyUI functionality, the first troubleshooting step is ensuring SKSE64 is set up properly.
Here are step-by-step instructions for manually installing the latest SKSE64 version correctly for your Skyrim build:
- Download Current SKSE64 Archive – Visit skse.silverlock.org and download the latest “Current SE Build” archive. As of this writing, that is version 2.1.5.
- Extract Archive Files – Using your preferred archive extractor (like 7-Zip), extract the SKSE archive file contents.
- Copy Files to Data Folder
- Navigate to your Skyrim Special Edition install location’s root folder. This is usually under Program Files(x86)>Steam>steamapps>common.
- Go into the _CommonRedist > Skyrim Special Edition > Data folder.
- Copy the src folder from extracted SKSE64 archive here.
- Copy DLL Files to Root – Copy the following files from SKSE64 archive to your Skyrim Special Edition folder root:
- skse64_loader.exe
- skse64_steam_loader.dll
- Edit INI Files – Within the Skyrim Special Edition folder root, open and add these lines to both Skyrim.ini & SkyrimPrefs.ini config files:
[General]
EnableCompression=1
sStartingConsoleCommand=set TMPSIZE 104857600
- Launch SKSE64 – Run skse64_loader.exe instead of SkyrimSE.exe launcher to open SKSE64 and boot Skyrim with full script extender functionality active.
Be sure to always run SKSE64 loader executable instead of the default game executable when playing Skyrim SE. This will ensure all SKSE-dependent mods like SkyUI can work correctly.
With those steps done properly, you now have the latest SKSE64 version installed perfectly to support UI mods like SkyUI in your Skyrim Special Edition setup.
Installing SkyUI SE Mod Through Your Mod Manager: Launch Skyrim and Install SKSE
After getting SKSE64 set up correctly, next you need to properly install the SkyUI SE mod itself. The best practice is using a good mod manager, rather than manual installation.
Here is how to install SkyUI Special Edition flawlessly using the popular Vortex Mod Manager tool:
- Download Latest SkyUI SE Files – Visit SkyUI mod page on NexusMods. Hit “Mod Manager Download” button to download mod archive via Vortex.
- Enable SkyUI through Vortex – In the “Mods” tab, find SkyUI mod listing and check box to enable it.
- Install Mod Resources – On the SkyUI listing, click “Install Mod” button to install all included mod resource files.
- Activate SkyUI Plugin – Go to “Plugins” tab in Vortex and make sure SkyUI .esp is enabled & deployed.
- Launch SkyUI MCM – Boot game through SKSE64 loader. In “System” menu, go to “Mod Configuration” page and verify SkyUI’s options page appears.
Using a quality mod manager like Vortex ensures all SkyUI files are seamlessly installed in the proper Data folder locations needed for full functionality.
If using other tools like Mod Organizer 2, the general gist is the same – enable SkyUI mod package, deploy assets, and activate its .esp plugin file through the manager interface. Consult documentation for specifics.
How to Fix the SkyUI Error Code Due to Mod Conflicts
Sometimes even with the latest SKSE64 and SkyUI SE properly set up through a mod manager, you may still encounter “error code 1” messages and issues upon launching Skyrim.
Often this points to some kind of conflict between the SkyUI mod and other installed UI mods/packages.
Here are tips to troubleshoot and fix SkyUI functionality due to potential mod conflicts:
- Check SkyUI SE Requirements – SkyUI has specific compatibility requirements like SKSE and .NET Script Framework. Ensure those dependencies are also setup correctly.
- Isolate UI Mods for Testing – Systematically enable/disable other UI mods to identify any potential clashes with SkyUI installed.
- Adjust Load Order – In mod manager, adjust priority & load ordering for SkyUI and other UI mods to resolve conflicts.
- Clean Update/Reinstall – Start fresh by fully removing all traces of SkyUI mod, verifying game file integrity, re-deploying a clean SkyUI version.
- Search SkyUI Forums – Dig into SkyUI NexusMods forums/posts to see if anyone has reported your specific error code or symptoms already with known solutions.
- Post in Community – Ask questions to knowledgeable modders in Skyrim modding communities for personalized troubleshooting advice if needed.
With some targeted testing and conflict resolution, you should be able to get SkyUI running smoothly.
Final Steps for Smooth Functionality, Causing the SkyUI Error Codes
Once the SkyUI mod is correctly installed and configured without conflicts alongside SKSE64, there are a few final best practices for keeping functionality smooth during play:
- Always Launch SKSE64 – Never use default SkyrimSE executable to play, or SkyUI risks not enabling properly!
- Limit Other UI Mods – Be cautious adding multiple other complex UI mods that may conflict.
- Maintain Load Order – Be consistent and careful about mod install priority and load ordering each play session.
- Update Cautiously – When updating SKSE64 or SkyUI versions, do so carefully checking for breaks or new conflicts.
- Monitor Performance – Keep an eye out during gameplay for any emerging SkyUI issues or error messages cropping up.
- Seeking Support – Don’t hesitate to ask questions in modding communities if new functionality problems arise requiring assistance!
Sticking to those tips will help avoid a relapse into “SkyUI error code 1” territory and keep your user interface modding hassle-free over long-term gameplay.
Correctly getting SkyUI fully functioning alongside SKSE64 avoids all sorts of frustrations and error code headaches while playing Skyrim Special Edition. Follow the comprehensive troubleshooting, installation, and usage best practices outlined above, and you’ll have a flawless interface enhancement mod elevating your gameplay experience in no time.
Frequently Asked Questions About SkyUI Issues and Methods to Fix
Here are answers to some common troubleshooting questions around getting SkyUI fully operational:
What causes SkyUI error code 1 in Skyrim?
SkyUI error 1 occurs primarily due to either outdated or incorrectly configured SKSE64 scripts the mod relies on. Config issues with SkyUI files themselves or conflicting UI mods can also cause code 1 errors.
Why does SKSE64 say runtime error when trying to run SkyUI?
SKSE64 runtime errors when trying to load SkyUI generally mean the script extender itself is either outdated or set up incorrectly – so troubleshoot by verifying you have the latest SKSE64 version fully installed per above guide.
How do I enable SKSE64 for SkyUI?
Enabling SKSE64 requires installing scripts and DLL files into game Data folder along with editing INI files per instructions above. Running SKSE64 loader .exe rather than default Skyrim launcher activates it.
Does SkyUI SE work without SKSE64?
No – SkyUI SE has an absolute requirement for SKSE64 scripts and functionality to work correctly within Skyrim. Without properly set up SKSE, SkyUI will be unable to function and show error code 1.
Is SkyUI compatible with Skyrim Anniversary edition?
The latest version of SkyUI SE (2.2 SE) states compatibility with Skyrim’s Anniversary edition update. But issues could arise – always check SkyUI mod pages for your specific game version before installing.
What other Skyrim UI mods conflict with SkyUI?
Some known UI mods with the potential to conflict with SkyUI include Dear Diary, Customizable UI Replacer, SkyHUD Oblivion Preset, Nordic UI, and various other custom menu replacers. Carefully test compatibility.
How do I fix SkyUI if it stops working after Skyrim update?
If a Skyrim game update breaks SkyUI functionality, updating to the latest SKSE64 and SkyUI versions that specifically state support for your new game build is the solution. Fully re-install mods after update.
Why does SkyUI disappear or turn invisible after loading save?
SkyUI randomly disappearing points to a potential conflict with another mod added to your load order interfering with its scripts. Methodically disable other mods to isolate issue then adjust load order priority as needed.