I don't claim to know how Steam works, but presumably if you go to (
root/Program Files/Bethesda Softworks/Obivion/), you'll find a shortcut called
OBSE_loader - clicking this should launch the OBSE-enabled version of the game. Also, it might be possible to change Steam's default choice of .exe to launch the game so that you can do it through Steam anyways.
Good luck!
When I try and launch through the OBSE_loader I get an error message saying:
"You are trying to use a Steam version of Oblivion. Please see the instructions in obse_readme.txt for more information."
And can't continue any further, I've read the OBSE_0018 read-me but it doesn't say how to solve this problem:
"If you are using the Steam version of the game:
1. Copy obse_1_2_416.dll, obse_editor_1_2.dll, and obse_steam_loader.dll to your Oblivion directory. This is usually "C:\Program Files\Valve\Steam\SteamApps\common\oblivion".
2. OBSE will automatically be run along with Oblivion when launched. To disable this, rename or move obse_steam_loader.dll. You do not need to use obse_loader.exe unless you are running the editor.
Scripts written with these new commands must be written via the TESConstructionSet launched with obse_loader. Open a command prompt window, navigate to your oblivion install folder, and type "obse_loader -editor". The normal editor can open plugins with these extended scripts fine, it just can't recompile them and will give errors if you try."
I don't have the Steam version either I'm afraid.
But that bit about the OBSE Loader is probably just confusing you. According to the OBSE readme; those of us without steam (regular CD version etc.) need to run the game through the loader file. You lot with steam don't even install that. It SHOULD work through your usual means of starting the game.
But I have heard that some mods don't work that well with all versions of the game (steam, GOTY etc.)
Crossbows of Cyrodill is about the only crossbow mod for the game, to the best of my knowledge. A couple of others got started, but never really went anywhere.
As for armours; there are tons of options out there, search TESNexus etc. I have no clue what there is for your particular preferences myself.
Maybe CoC doesn't worth with the Steam version of the game, kinda disappointed now