Can You Join the Dawnguard Before the Main Quest?
In The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, the Dawnguard DLC offers a unique storyline that delves into the world of vampires and the ancient prophecy of the Elder Scrolls. One of the most common questions among Skyrim enthusiasts is whether it’s possible to join the Dawnguard before completing the main quest. In this article, we’ll explore the answer to this question and provide insights on the Dawnguard’s storyline and gameplay mechanics.
Direct Answer:
Yes, you can join the Dawnguard before completing the main quest. In fact, you can start the Dawnguard questline as early as level 10, making it an attractive option for players who want to explore the world of vampires and the Elder Scrolls prophecy.
Main Quest vs. Dawnguard Questline:
Before we dive into the details, it’s essential to understand the difference between the main quest and the Dawnguard questline. The main quest is the primary storyline of Skyrim, which follows the player’s character as they attempt to defeat the Dragon Alduin and save the world from destruction. The Dawnguard questline, on the other hand, is a standalone storyline that focuses on the vampire lord Harkon and his attempts to drain the life force of the world.
Can You Join the Dawnguard Early?
So, can you join the Dawnguard early? The answer is yes. You can start the Dawnguard questline by traveling to the Dawnguard headquarters, located in the frozen wilderness of Skyrim. From there, you’ll meet the leader of the Dawnguard, Isran, who will offer you a choice: join the Dawnguard and fight against the vampires, or side with the vampires and become one of them.
Pros and Cons of Joining the Dawnguard Early:
Joining the Dawnguard early has its pros and cons. On the one hand, you’ll gain access to new quests, characters, and storylines that explore the world of vampires and the Elder Scrolls prophecy. On the other hand, you may miss out on some of the main quest’s story beats and character developments.
Gameplay Mechanics:
When you join the Dawnguard, you’ll gain access to new gameplay mechanics, such as the ability to transform into a vampire lord, wield powerful vampire abilities, and interact with other vampires in the world. You’ll also gain access to new equipment, including the powerful crossbow and various vampire-themed armor sets.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, joining the Dawnguard before completing the main quest is a viable option in Skyrim. By doing so, you’ll gain access to new quests, characters, and storylines that explore the world of vampires and the Elder Scrolls prophecy. However, you may miss out on some of the main quest’s story beats and character developments. Ultimately, the decision to join the Dawnguard early or later in the game is up to you and your personal playstyle.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I join the Dawnguard after completing the main quest?
- Yes, you can join the Dawnguard at any point in the game, even after completing the main quest.
- Will joining the Dawnguard affect my character’s storyline?
- Yes, joining the Dawnguard will affect your character’s storyline and alter the way you interact with other characters in the game.
- Can I still complete the main quest if I join the Dawnguard early?
- Yes, you can still complete the main quest even if you join the Dawnguard early. The Dawnguard questline is a standalone storyline that can be completed separately from the main quest.
Table: Dawnguard Questline Timeline
| Quest | Level | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Awakening | 10 | Meet Isran and choose to join the Dawnguard |
| Bloodline | 12 | Learn about the Dawnguard’s history and the prophecy of the Elder Scrolls |
| Ancient of the Dawn | 15 | Uncover the secrets of the ancient vampire lord, Harkon |
| Dawn of the Dawnguard | 18 | Confront Harkon and choose the fate of the Dawnguard |
Conclusion:
In conclusion, joining the Dawnguard before completing the main quest is a viable option in Skyrim. By doing so, you’ll gain access to new quests, characters, and storylines that explore the world of vampires and the Elder Scrolls prophecy. However, you may miss out on some of the main quest’s story beats and character developments. Ultimately, the decision to join the Dawnguard early or later in the game is up to you and your personal playstyle.