How to convert and optimize a mod using CAO 64

⭐ ⭐ (672 endorsements) 📥 14,231 downloads 📌 v2.1 📅 5/27/2021
⚪ Last updated 2022

By Dreifels · Modders Resources

⬇ Download Mod Source: Nexus Mods ↗ 📅 Updated: 12/4/2022 📅 Created: 5/27/2021
⚠️ 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

  • 👍 4.7% endorsement rate — high engagement, a strong quality signal
  • 🏆 #15 of 22 Modders Resources mods in this game by downloads

📋 About This Mod

This tutorial is dedicated to Skyrim LE- and SE-users who are not so familiar with Skyrim SE optimizing and are looking for an easy to understand guide on how to convert and optimize SE-mods using the new CAO Cathedral Assets Optimizer 64

🤖 AI-enhanced — based on mod data

A 23-page PDF guide by Dreifels for modders converting and optimizing Skyrim mods for SSE using Cathedral Assets Optimizer 64. Covers tools like CreationKit, xTranslator, SSEEdit, and LOOT, with detailed instructions based on extensive testing. Highly endorsed (672) and downloaded (14,231), it's a trusted resource for mod authors.

✨ Key Features

23-page PDF with detailed instructions for converting and optimizing both old LE mods and new SSE mods
Includes a list of required tools in order: CreationKit, xTranslator, SSEEdit, CAO 64, 7z, NMM, and LOOT
Provides guidance on BSAs, covering compressed and uncompressed formats
Based on extensive testing and research after the release of CAO 64
Written by Dreifels, who shares experience from translations and tests of translated mods

📊 Pros & Cons

✅ Pros

  • Community-approved resource with 672 endorsements and over 14k downloads
  • Covers both LE and SSE mods, making it versatile for modders working with either version
  • Includes practical tool list and order, saving time for beginners

⚠️ Cons

  • Last updated in December 2022, so some tools or methods may be outdated
  • Requires reading a 23-page PDF, which might be overwhelming for quick reference
  • Compatibility risk: instructions may not apply to newer versions of CAO or other tools
🎯 Is This For You?
For Skyrim mod authors who want to convert or optimize their mods for SSE, especially those new to the process. Also useful for translators who need to ensure their mods work optimally. Skip if you're a player looking for gameplay mods—this is a modder's resource.
📦 Install:Easy· Under 1 minute to download and read the PDF

💡 Beginner Tips

  • Read the PDF thoroughly before starting your first conversion, as it explains the order of tools and why it matters.
  • Use the recommended tool versions listed in the guide to avoid compatibility issues with CAO 64.
  • Check the images in the description for visual examples of BSA compression settings.

📊 Mod Details

Game
Skyrim Mods
Author
Dreifels
Version
2.1
Downloads
14,231
Endorsements
672
Category
Modders Resources
Created
5/27/2021
Updated
12/4/2022

🔧 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.

Keep browsing — more Skyrim mods await

📋 All Skyrim Mods 🏆 Top 25 📂 More Modders Resources 👤 More by Dreifels 🔎 Similar Mods 🌐 Best Modders Resources (All Games) ⚠️ Fix Crashes & Errors 💾 Save Files 🔀 Check Compatibility ⚖️ Compare Mods 🆕 New Mods