Backstabs (OpenMW)

If the NPC doesn't see you, they don't expect you to act. That's the idea.

Features

You deal more damage when your target doesn't expect the strike! The conditions are:

• []You must be outside the victim's FOV (or have 100% chameleon or be invisible).

  []The higher your Sneak level, the more damage you deal.

  []If the victim is in combat, the damage multiplier is reduced.

  []Sneaking status itself does nothing.

  The same rules apply to you as the player - so watch your back!

  Different Flavors

  There are multiple damage formula presets to choose from:

  • []Linear -> FlatMultiplier + AttackerSneak SneakMultiplier

    []Threshold -> FlatMultiplier + (AttackerSneak // step) SneakMultiplier

    (// = integer division)[]Instakill -> math.huge

    Mid-combat Backstabs

    If the actor is in combat, the formula is further multiplied by an additional value. This applies to:

    • []NPCs currently in combat

      []The player, if a weapon or spell is ready

      Lethal Backstabs

      You can also make backstabs with special weapons lethal - with a few exceptions (ikyk).

      Special weapons include:

      • []Mehrunes' Razor

        Crouching Check

        Some people have this as muscle memory already - myself included.

        Just be aware that by "crouching" I mean "holding down Ctrl" (or whatever key you’ve assigned). The Sneaking status itself does nothing - it’s not yet available in the Lua API and is also really unreliable without a complete overhaul.

        Also toggleable.

        Weapon Toggles

        Choose which weapons will backstab and which won't. Keep in mind that this will apply to both you and NPCs.

        Make Backstabs That Suit You!

        Everything in the mod is configurable - and I mean it.

        Want consistent stealth hits only for daggers? Easy.

        Want more dynamic positioning in battles? We’ve got you covered.

        Want more uses for the underutilized Sneak skill? We’ve got those too.

        Default values are just a formality.

        Requirements

        OpenMW July 2025 dev build or newer.

        Compatibility

        Soft (non-critical) incompatibilities

        • []CHIM 2090 by S3ctor - This mod already implements it's own backstabs

        Other Mods to Enhance Your Backstabbing Experience

        []Dynamic Reticle and Subtle Enemy Health Bar and Dynamic Camera Effects and Target Lock by MaxYari – A complete overhaul of the camera and reticle. It’s a great