Can You Save Serana without Joining Dawnguard?
The eternal debate among Skyrim enthusiasts has centered around one question: is it possible to save Serana, the iconic follower, without joining the Dawnguard faction? Many players have pondered the answer to this question, and for good reason – Serana is a memorable and lovable character whose fate has captured the imagination of countless gamers. To shed some light on this topic, let’s break down the key points below.
Direct Answer to the Question
Yes, you can save Serana without joining Dawnguard. But before we delve into the details, keep in mind that joining the Dawnguard is indeed a significant part of Serana’s storyline.
What Happens in the Dawnguard Main Quest
For those unaware, Dawnguard introduces a brand-new faction fighting against vampires in Skyrim – the Dawnguard itself. You’ll have to make crucial choices, influencing the fate of various NPCs, including Serana.
When Can You Rescue Serana?
Even if you don’t join Dawnguard initially, it’s possible to save Serana after completing a chunk of the main quest.
Consequences of not Joining Dawnguard
So, what will happen if you choose to ignore Dawnguard entirely? Serana will never become your follower. Don’t be too disappointed yet – as mentioned earlier, you’ll still have chances to rescue her.
How to Save Serana without Joining Dawnguard
To rescue Serana, you’ll have to take a specific course of action:
- Save the player’s husband (*Valdr) from vampire mercenaries
- Protect your mother (*Sylgja) from the Thieves Guild
By completing the above quests, you can unlock an alternative path involving Serana. Here, you’ll find the door to rescue her from vampire captivity, effectively saving Serana without joining Dawnguard.
Table: Overview of Options
| Course of Action | Result | Dawnguard Requirement | Serana’s Fate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Save Valdr | Rescue Serana | No, Dawnguard | Salyx Falls out |
| Save Sylgja | Rescute Serana | No, Dawnguard | J’zargo gets caught |
As you can see, by saving Valdr or Sylgja, you’ll create paths that let you rescue Serana, even if you don’t join Dawnguard. The choices won’t drastically alter Serana’s character, but her storyline will still be a part of your overall game experience.
Why Choosing Dawnguard is Worthy Consideration
Let’s emphasize that joining the Dawnguard comes with its benefits. Notably, becoming a vampire with Serana by your side can create a memorable co-op experience. Dawnguard expands the game universe, adds new story arcs, and introduces engaging party members – like Aela the Huntress. Think carefully before deciding not to join!
Conclusion and Final Tips
While Serana is an unforgettable and lovable character, deciding not to join Dawnguard does limit her gameplay potential. Still, alternative paths for saving her from vampire captivity exist, catering to your unique gaming desires. Save Valdr and Sylgja in the meantime, and – who knows? – future mods or updates might enable more thrilling Serana-driven adventures!