Hey everyone!Here’s a sneak peek at how the new SDA × Ashe banter is shaping up - the headline feature of Ashe 1.2 and SDA 4.3!
As mentioned in my recent dev update, early access is now set for November 7–9, with the full release on December 12. Early access will be available on all platforms except PS4 / PS5 for now - while there are unofficial ports I’ve authorized, official support will come once Bethesda’s Creation Kit uploader allows direct uploads (they’ve already given the green light in principle).
About the PreviewThe video shows different entry scenarios -- one where you meet Serana with Ashe in your party, and one where you meet Ashe while traveling with Serana.
To keep immersion and replayability high, you can start Dawnguard with Ashe or start Ashe’s quest with Serana; just have either of them in your party first! I’m also supporting mid-game installs since the banter is technically released as a separate plugin (it’s huge!). You’ll get the best experience if you install it before both characters meet, so you can see their rapport build naturally.
The clip also shows a deeper banter integration -- Ashe and Serana react dynamically to what’s happening in-game (for example, Ashe’s reaction when you loot the Frozen Falmer). There’s even a lighthearted moment at the Forgotten Vale waterfall; they know when the player’s actually out of the water so lines don’t trigger awkwardly mid-splash.
My goal was to capture a sense of family and sisterhood between the two: Dawnguard awareness, radiant chatter, and those small reactive touches that make Skyrim feel alive. (And yes - mild spoilers ahead about Ashe’s automaton nature. 😅)This banter is easily the largest cross-follower integration I’ve done yet - possibly even bigger than Inigo and Lucien’s!
What’s NextA separate dev-build post will go live soon for patrons who want to test early - I’m just pacing the posts so you don’t get two drops in one day.
Thanks as always for watching and supporting - can’t wait to hear what you think once you see the banter in action!
– Marty