how to delete characters in skyrim

To delete a character in Skyrim, follow these steps carefully to ensure the process is done safely and effectively.

1. Back Up Your Save Files
   Before making any changes, create a backup of your save files. Navigate to the Skyrim save folder, typically located in Documents > My Games > Skyrim. Copy the save files, which end with .ess or .skse, to another folder or external drive. This ensures you can restore your progress if something goes wrong.
2. Identify Your Character Save Files
   Open your Skyrim save folder and locate the files associated with the character you wish to delete. Save files are named with a number and a character name. Check the date modified to verify which save belongs to the character in question.
3. Delete Character Save Files
   Select and delete the relevant save files, including the .ess files and any associated .skse or .bak files. Right-click and choose Delete. Confirm when prompted. Note that this only deletes your save data, not the character’s existence in a game session if the character is active in ongoing gameplay.
4. Remove Character Data from Mods or SKSE (Optional)
   If you’re using mods or SKSE (Skyrim Script Extender), ensure you delete or deactivate any mod data related to your character. Check custom mod folders if you customized appearances or other character aspects with mods.
5. Clean Hidden Data (Optional)
   To prevent issues when reloading saves, consider using tools like Skyrim Save Game Cleaner or TES5Edit to thoroughly clean your save files, following their instructions carefully to avoid corrupting your save.
6. Start a New Game or Load a Different Save
   Once the old character save is deleted, launch Skyrim and start a new game or load a different save. Confirm that the previous character no longer appears and that the game runs smoothly.

Understanding Why and When to Delete a Character

Deleting a character in Skyrim can be an important step for players who want a fresh start or need to fix certain issues. Whether it is to remove a corrupted save or to create a new experience, understanding why and when to delete a character helps in making wise gaming decisions.

Sometimes, players may find that their current character is no longer fun or is causing technical problems. Deleting a character can resolve issues like bugs or glitches tied to that specific save game. Additionally, if you want to begin a new playthrough with a different character build or story, deleting the old character can clear the way for new adventures.

Knowing when to delete a character also involves timing. For example, if a game save becomes corrupted, deleting the character and starting anew might be necessary to continue playing smoothly. Conversely, if you’re simply bored or want to try a different quest line, it’s better to create a new save to avoid losing progress in other saves.

It is essential to consider the impact of deleting a character, especially if you’ve invested many hours into that game. Be sure to back up any important data or screenshots if you want to remember moments from that character’s journey. Once a character is deleted, restoring that progress is not possible unless you have a backup.

In summary, deleting a character in Skyrim is useful when troubleshooting technical issues, removing a corrupted save, or starting fresh with a new story. Always consider timing and backed-up data before proceeding to avoid losing valuable progress or causing unnecessary complications.