Arvak - My version SE by Xtudo

⭐ ⭐⭐ (1,556 endorsements) 📥 671,291 downloads 📌 v1.2 📅 6/27/2021
🟠 Updated over a year ago

By Xtudo · Models and Textures

⬇ Download Mod Source: Nexus Mods ↗ 📅 Updated: 6/16/2025 📅 Created: 6/27/2021
⚠️ Install Order · 5 steps
1🛠️ SKSE64 — Skyrim Script Extender 64 Download ↗
2🔧 USSEP — Unofficial Skyrim Special Edition Patch Download ↗
3🖥️ SkyUI — SkyUI (MCM framework) Download ↗
4🧩 Address Library — Address Library for SKSE Plugins Download ↗
5🔧 SSE Engine Fixes — SSE Engine Fixes Download ↗

Install in this order, then this mod last — most mods fail to load without their framework and dependencies in place.

🔍 Analysis

  • 👍 0.2% endorsement rate
  • 🏆 #276 of 517 Models and Textures mods in this game by downloads

📋 About This Mod

Arvak - My version

Description

A lore-friendly replacer for Arvak, from the Dawnguard DLC, with new HD textures, and an improved mesh file too.

This is my approach to a lore-friendly Arvak HD version. The mod includes:

  • []2K textures (from 1K)

    []Added alpha channels for a more skeletal appearance

    []Reduced the height from the frontal head fire, it really helps in 1st person view mods

    []Added extra fires to the mouth and nose

    []The new textures won't affect Shadowmere (the vanilla models share them)

    I made it for my game and now I'm sharing it, I hope you like it. :)

    Optional patches

    • []Only textures. This version is more compatible with other mods that changes Arvak, like "Arvak With or Without Flames - Color Packs".

      []Darker burning hooves. It is intended to use with the lovely "Arvak Burning Hooves Restored - Cut Content Restoration" mod. Darkens the burning hooves to better match the Arvak burning fire.

      []Better Arvak replacer. It will work with any of the Main files of the Better Arvak mod. Install this patch after that file.

      []Convenient Horses - Serana's Alsvid patch.

      Recommended mods

      • []Footprints

      • Arvak Burning Hooves Restored - Cut Content Restoration - Check the Optional download that darkens the burning hooves to better match the Arvak burning fire. Recommended.

        - LE version here.

        Hello friends! Do you like my mods or stories?

        Please support me on Patreon.

🤖 AI-enhanced — based on mod data

A lore-friendly visual overhaul for Arvak, the spectral horse from Skyrim's Dawnguard DLC, featuring new HD textures and an improved mesh. Popular with 1,556 endorsements and over 671k downloads, last updated June 2025.

✨ Key Features

Replaces Arvak's default appearance with a lore-friendly design
Includes new HD textures for higher visual fidelity
Features an improved mesh file for better geometry
Compatible with Skyrim Special Edition

📊 Pros & Cons

✅ Pros

  • Community favorite with 1,556 endorsements and 671k downloads — clearly a go-to for Arvak fans
  • HD textures and improved mesh mean Arvak actually looks good up close, not just from a distance
  • Lore-friendly approach keeps the spectral vibe intact, so it fits right into Dawnguard

⚠️ Cons

  • Only affects Arvak — if you wanted changes to other horses or mounts, this won't help
  • No screenshots or detailed install notes in the description, so you're flying blind until you try it
  • Last updated June 2025 — likely fine for current SE, but no guarantee for future updates
🎯 Is This For You?
For Skyrim players who love Dawnguard and want Arvak to look sharper without breaking immersion. Also great for screenshot enthusiasts who want a better-looking spectral steed. Skip if you're looking for gameplay changes or overhauls to all horses.
📦 Install:Easy· Under 1 minute

💡 Beginner Tips

  • Since it's a simple replacer, just drop the files into your Data folder or use a mod manager — no load order tweaks needed.
  • If you're using other Arvak mods, make sure this one loads after them to avoid conflicts.
  • Check the mod's posts page for any user screenshots or compatibility notes before installing.

📊 Mod Details

Game
Skyrim Mods
Author
Xtudo
Version
1.2
Downloads
671,291
Endorsements
1,556
Category
Models and Textures
Created
6/27/2021
Updated
6/16/2025

🔧 How to Install Skyrim Mods

Download from Nexus.

📖 Full step-by-step install guide for Skyrim →

Visit the official mod page for specific installation instructions for this mod.

🎮 Need cheat codes or console commands? Check ur gaming wiki for Skyrim commands, item IDs, and more.

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