Skeleton Key is a small, immersive solution that allows experts in the Security skill to Bypass locks. There are a variety of preset configurations to tune the experience.

ICEBREAKER

If you enjoyed this mod, then you might like Icebreaker! It has deeper base-game integration with cool magazines to collect and a unique hacking device acquirable after completing Ryujin quests. Check it out here: https://creations.bethesda.net/en/starfield/details/c910bf4a-ef6f-4b59-b3f9-cd03706856b8/Icebreaker___Achievement_Friendly_Auto_Hack

Features

The default interaction for locks that you can Bypass is replaced automatically. Interacting now expends Digipicks to automatically open the lock, while [X] will display the Digipicking minigame like normal.

Skeleton Key can run in several modes for varying amounts of challenge or compatibility.

Configuration

The system will initialize in Immersive mode upon loading the game.

MODE - [IMMERSIVE] Security Rank 3 is required to attempt Lock Bypassing. Security Rank 4 lowers Digipick usage and allows Bypassing Expert-tier locks. Master-tier Locks cannot be Bypassed at all.

MODE - [VANILLA] Bypass can be attempted from Security Rank 1 onwards. Locks can be Bypassed if you have the relevant Security Skill rank. Bypassing always requires 2 Digipicks, and failing wastes 1 Digipick. At Security Rank 4, Bypasses will always succeed.

MODE - [MINIMAL] No Security ranks are required to attempt Bypassing. One digipick will be used per Lock Tier up to 4 picks for a Master lock. This is mostly for compatibility purposes if another mod prevents functionality in other modes.

MODE - [MASTER THIEF] All locks up to Master level can be opened with 1 Digipick. This is the 'Cheat' mode.

MODE - [DISABLED] The perk allowing Skeleton Key to function is removed.

AUTO-ACTIVATE - [ENABLED] / [DISABLED] Determines whether doors and terminals will automatically be interacted with after a successful Bypass.

Compatibility

In theory, the mod is compatible with everything. [MINIMAL] mode can be used if other mods interfere with the Security Skill checks.

Lockpicking skill challenges will not progress when Bypassing locks, so keep this in mind. Bypassing story locks or those you have the key for may have unintended consequences.

Contact / Mirrors

This mod is also hosted on Nexus mods at https://www.nexusmods.com/starfield/mods/13127 As of version 1.5, features are identical between the two uploads.