Set Essential (setessential)
skyrim — Cheat Codes
Makes an NPC essential (unkillable) or non-essential, preventing or allowing death.
Syntax
setessential [NPC ID] [0/1]Example
setessential 0001A696 1💡 Notes
PC only. 1 = essential, 0 = non-essential. Use console to select NPC or enter ID.
🎯 Tips & Tricks
Protect followers
Set your favorite follower to essential to prevent death.
Kill essential NPCs
Set to 0 to kill characters like quest givers.
Find IDs
Use console click or 'help [name]' to find NPC IDs.
🔧 Troubleshooting
NPC still dies
Ensure you set to 1 and the ID is correct.
Quest broken
Set back to 1 if a quest requires the NPC alive.
⚠️ Common Mistakes
- Setting wrong NPC
- Forgetting to reset
- Using on player character
👍 Pros
- Protect NPCs
- Make enemies killable
- Customize gameplay
- Useful for mods
👎 Cons
- Disables achievements
- Can break quests
- Requires correct IDs