Ashe + Serana Sandboxing Test Patch (Bumping / Wandering)
Hey fam! Quick community test patch announcement.
TL;DR: I uploaded an experimental patch that disables Ashe + Serana’s sandbox “wandering” to reduce bumping/blocking/circling (they still use idle markers). If you try it, please fill out the survey: [SURVEY LINK HERE]. Also: Ashe custom names are closed while I compile requests, and Aela auditions are closed while I build a shortlist.
I’ve uploaded an experimental sandboxing patch for Ashe + Serana, since both characters share similar “intelligent” sandbox behavior (when the player stops moving / is idle, they’ll try to do their own thing).
Quick heads-up: bit of a wall of text incoming - I wanted to include all the details for testing. 😅
Why I’m testing this:
A recurring complaint over time is that Ashe and/or Serana can occasionally bump into the player, walk in front of you while you’re talking to NPCs, or even circle each other during banter — which can be distracting and a little immersion-breaking.
What the patch changes (simple version):
During their sandbox package, I’m disabling their “wander” behavior so they don’t roam around randomly - but they’ll still use idle/sandbox markers (chairs, leaning spots, etc.) so they remain reactive and feel alive.
I’m running this as a public test before committing, because this changes a core aspect of their sandbox AI and I want as large a sample size as possible before deciding whether it becomes the new default.
Where it’s hosted + why:
Originally, I uploaded this to the Ashe↔Serana Banter patch page since it’s the common hub where both Ashe and Serana fans tend to migrate — but I’m also announcing it here on Discord and Patreon for maximum reach and distribution.
Test Patch Details:
Filename: Ashe and Serana Sandbox Wander Patch.esp (ESL-flagged ESP) // check post attachments
Requires: Ashe + SDA + the Ashe↔Serana Banter patch (as masters)
Load Order: Load after the banter patch.
How to test (quick + useful)
If possible, try both states:
Play normally without the patch (baseline)
Enable the patch and play again
Good test spots:
Towns/interiors with tight spacing
Talking to NPCs while Ashe/Serana are nearby
Letting the player idle while they sandbox
Letting Ashe + Serana banter while you stand nearby
Then please fill out the survey (only if you tested with the patch enabled):
Extra note: if you use stuff like Disable Follower Collision / I’m Walkin’ Here / follower frameworks, please mention it in the survey since it can affect results.
Thanks again — really appreciate the help. Your feedback will decide where this goes next.
– Marty
Quick housekeeping (while I’ve got you!)
Ashe Custom Names: currently closed while I compile and process the existing requests. Thanks for your patience — I’m working through them.
Aela Auditions: now closed, and I’m currently compiling a shortlist. Massive thanks to everyone who auditioned - there was a lot of talent in there, and I’ve got some genuinely tough choices ahead (in a good way!).