Is there a way to close Skyrim without using the task manager?

Solution 1:

On Windows 10 it is possible to have multiple desktops, and to move the unresponsive Skyrim window to the other desktop so it's no longer blocking access to Task Manager:

1. Use Win+Tab to bring up the window switcher.
2. Click New Desktop in the bottom right corner of the screen.
3. Hover over Desktop 1 (at the bottom of the screen) to get the windows back.
4. Drag and drop the unresponsive TESV.exe window onto Desktop 2.
5. Use Win+Tab to cancel the window switcher.

You can now use Ctrl+Shift+Esc to bring up Task Manager as normal.

Solution 2:

Use Win + R to open the Run prompt and type taskkill /IM TESV.exe /FEnter to kill off the Skyrim process.

Solution 3:

Enable always on top in task manager options.