All screenshots were captured in 4K on an Xbox Series X. This is the vanilla version of Skyrim Special Edition with no mods. To download a screenshot as a wallpaper, click the image in the gallery below and open it in a new tab. From here you can save the wallpaper locally to your computer or phone.
Virtual photography has a way of shining a light on the intricacies of games. And what game better than Skyrim Special Edition to go on a hunt for shots. Since upgrading to the Series X, it’s been one of my favorite games to eye up in a new way (especially with its performance boosts).
My latest run has made me appreciate the way Special Edition bolsters lighting in a lot of cases. Even when meandering there’s plenty of awe to be struck. And for those who haven’t bought into the newest edition, this alone is a solid reason to buy Skyrim for the 10th time.
- Check out more of my Skyrim Special Edition virtual photography
Much of this is due to the upgraded support for god rays in the engine. New shaders have also come into play in this edition as per The Unofficial Elder Scrolls Pages. Those playing on the Xbox Series X|S also benefit from Auto HDR. I’ve found that some of the more contrast heavy scenes really benefit from this edition when paired with an emphasis on god rays.
Bethesda’s classic RPG still stands the test of time, but meticulously trying to soak in its various settings has made diving back in that much more enjoyable. It’s level of immersion is barely matched even in 2021. Red Dead Redemption 2 is also a fantastic game for both getting lost in and virtual photography, but it’s hardly ethereal. And Bethesda’s way of dialing in on fantasy is uniquely their’s.
Lover of games, tech, nature, and strange electronic music. Shaped by Sega, PlayStation, Nintendo, and Xbox – platform agnostic ever since. Currently overwhelmed by choice on my Xbox Series X thanks to Game Pass.