Skyrim mod Aurbis opens invite-only early access beta

Aurbis, a mod that turns The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim into a persistent online roleplaying server with MMO-like systems, has entered an early access release, according to pcgamer.com. Access is currently invite-only through a beta.

A session key posted on the mod's ModDB page is said to grant access to the Aurbis beta. Playing it requires a legitimate copy of Skyrim downgraded to version 1.6.1170, and a custom launcher downloads and maintains all required mods.

The mod adds player groups called Cohorts that support parties, guilds and alignment with Skyrim's existing factions. A character builder lets players start with vampirism or lycanthropy, and a Birthsign system affects skill development.

Aurbis also features a player-driven economy with bank accounts, property ownership and player-created quests. A language and literacy system means players do not automatically understand every conversation or know every location.

The mod further includes MMO-style death penalties, survival systems and horse management. Previously, mods such as the cooperative mod Skyrim Together enabled small-scale Skyrim multiplayer.