Bobbing Framework - SKSE Plugin

Mod Description

Bobbing Framework is an SKSE plugin that brings subtle, immersive motion to Skyrim's static world. It animates existing objects with configurable floating motion entirely at runtime, without replacing meshes or modifying plugins.

Included Configuration

An optional configuration file is provided as an example and covers many vanilla locations as well as JK's Skyrim additions (JK's Skyrim is not required).

Currently included locations:

Dawnstar – 6 boats, 2 ships

Ivarstead – 2 boats

Morthal – 4 boats

Pilgrim's Trench – 2 icebergs, 2 barrels, ice floes, 1 boat

Riften City, Docks & Goldenglow Estate – 9 boats, 2 ships

Solitude – 3 boats, 3 ships

Windhelm – 3 boats, 2 ships

Winter War – 2 boats

Dainty Sload - Exterior and Interior of the Ship

These configurations are completely optional and serve as examples of what can be achieved with the framework. Mod authors and users can create or extend their own configurations using the same system.

If you are here because another mod requires this framework: simply install it and you're done.

Features

Runtime animation of existing objects.

Smooth bobbing, rolling, and pitching motion.

Supports parent-child hierarchies, allowing ships, boats, attached clutter, lanterns, ropes, and other objects to move together.

Configurable amplitude, speed, phase offset, and rotation.

Optional actor weight simulation that makes objects lean depending on where characters are standing.

Safe to install, uninstall and update anytime.

Author note: It was supposed to be a weekend project, It's been 3+ months!

Technical Details

Engine-level animation

Objects are animated directly through their loaded 3D models rather than by moving the game references themselves. As a result, reference positions are never modified or saved, making save/load operations completely safe. Objects never change their stored position, parent cell, or any other persistent data that could cause save-game issues or compatibility problems.

Performance

Bobbing Framework has a very low CPU overhead. Performance impact is measured in CPU time, not GPU rendering time. In most Skyrim setups, especially in visually heavy areas, the GPU is often the primary FPS limitation, while the CPU has additional available time between frames for lightweight background calculations.

Even in demanding scenarios, for example:

Dawnstar with JK's Skyrim, featuring two large ships (including one with 48 c