Just to be sure: can Skyrim be played completely offline (if I choose) or must Galaxy be active and running each time I play Skyrim?

hello,
I have around 150 game and i never see the need of Gog galaxy, Unless you want trophy. I did not install this game but there a Quote "The game is entirely playable offline thanks to GOG’s DRM-free nature and gives users the Anniversary Edition content without the need for Creation Club access. "
https://www.gog.com/forum/general/release_the_elder_scrolls_v_skyrim_79ad7/page2

The whole point of GOG is that you don't need something else running to play the game. While the Galaxy launcher makes it easy to view all your games together, you can also simply navigate to the game's folder (usually located in Program Files > GOG Galaxy or the like) and run the game from there. Though, in the case of Skyrim, I do recommend some method of mod manager that will enable you to use the Unofficial Skyrim Special Edition Patch.

We are talking about the GOG release of Skyrim here, right?

Yes, the GOG version. I understand GOG (been buying from here for years) but wanted to make sure. Thanks guys