Hi everyone. I finally upgraded my PC last night and am now ready to play Skyrim for the next 10 years!

Before I install it and get going, I thought I'd ask what everyone recommends as a good "basis" for starting the game, in terms of mods (or anything else I might need to do). First I'm going to play it a bit without any mods, just to see it as it is, but I know I'll probably be rushing for SkyUI within 10 minutes.

Other than SkyUI, what else should I get to start out with? I'm looking for things that make subtle improvements, not big overhauls or content-altering mods. Just things like UI changes, perhaps higher res textures, but nothing that changes game balance.

Thanks,
John

Some of my favorites are: Cloaks of Skyrim, Immersive Armors, and Jaysus Swords. ALL are lore-friendly

Thanks, but those are the types that I'm not looking for right now. I know they probably won't change game balance, but I'm also not interested (yet) in "small" mods that just add little items here and there. It was probably wrong of me to say I'm not looking for "big" mods, because SkyUI would probably be considered big insofar as it makes a big difference. I also read about Skyrim HD, which seems like an option for me, and something about FXAA post processing, although I admit I don't even know what those mods do.

Basically, I'm looking for mods that might enhance the core of the game (UI, graphics, bug fixes, etc.), but not weapons/armor mods and things like that, yet. But I appreciate the suggestions and will keep them in mind once I start feeling the need for more things.

The best way to improve the graphics for Skyrim on PC is by using an ENB. There are tons to choose from and it's all personal preference. My favorite is Sharpshooters ENB.

Another great mod is Project Reality: Climates of Tamriel. It adds AWESOME weather effects.

The way you're starting is exactly what I would recommend to anyone new to Skyrim for the PC. Looks like you know what you're doing.