Sorry to bug you guys again, but I need to know just this one thing - is it even possible to download Skyrim Legendary version for PC (windows 8.1) for free? Safely?

I've looked around, but I got mixed and often confusing results - mostly which websites to avoid when downloading a game and something about viruses/malware. I know that I can download it from Steam and Amazon, but I don't have a Steam account, so I wanna ask you guys a few questions:
1. Do I need an account to download anything from Amazon?
2. Is it free to download?
3. Will I be able to mod the game if I choose to do so?
4. Is there a risk of viruses/malware/spyware infecting my computer?
5. How exactly do I download the game?

I don't want the CD, I just want to download it. I'm looking for info that can answer any or all of the above questions. Thanks in advance!

Hope you are not asking for pirated games because you are not allowed to do that here via site rules. Last time I checked Skyrim wasn't freeware. The price is worth it, it's a well made game with plenty to do.

Skyrim is not free and only if you have bought it from Amazon can you download it. The same with Steam.

If you find it for free somewhere be very, very wary on getting viruses and or malware/spyware for thats how they are doing it now or just one of the ways the bad guys are stealing info from you.

The best place to get it is to buy it off of Steam for it will be downloaded from Steam no mater where you buy a digital copy from.

Thanks for the tip, guys. @joandsarah77, I'm not asking for pirated games. I would never ask for one. Does Amazon require an account for downloading/purchasing things or is that optional?

Amazon does require an account I think. I would recommend getting it on steam because of the workshop. Mods are a one-click download (I think, haven't played any steam games with workshop in a while), there is support on the forums, the whole nine yards. If you want to play the waiting game until the inevitable summer sale, you can add it to your wishlist and you'll get an email when it goes on sale for 50% off or more. I know this sounds like an ad, but steam is great.

Thanks. I'll consider getting a Steam account. A friend of mine said that there were a bunch of free games there. It sounds fun.

This is not spam.
(in hindsight, that makes what I'm about to say dodgy)
There are websites around that allow you to earn credits and trade 'em for games on steam?
Most of them are dodgy, but there is one that I use is called tremorgames.
Here's the link if you're interested:
www.tremorgames.com/
don't forget to tell 'em digitalnessie sent you! xD
Anyway, it is a great way to get free games legally.

Thanks. I got a Steam account a while back. Now I just need money to buy and download Skyrim...

http://www.gamesdeal.com/the-elder-...oppingen&cy=usd

It's not free, but you can get a skyrim steam key for $5.59 today. It's not legendary edition, though.

Humblebundle and Indiegala have discounts everyday, so check those out as well. Skyrim might be added there.
https://www.humblebundle.com/
https://www.indiegala.com/

Both need an account as well, also to claim your steam key. You can link your steam profile with it and then with one single click you have the game.
Steam itself comes also with sales. Not long ago there was a halloween sale. And probably just as with other years there will be a christmas sale, so watch for December. Same goes for humblebundle and indiegala.
And then there is also greenman gaming. http://www.greenmangaming.com/ Another place to get steamkeys and with discounts.