Does It Matter if You Choose Imperials or Stormcloaks?
In The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, you have the freedom to choose which faction to support: the Imperials or the Stormcloaks. This decision affects the gameplay and story, but do you ever stop to think, does it truly matter? In this article, we will dive into the implications of this choice and discuss its significance in the world of Skyrim.
Ultimately, the Choice Depends on Personal Beliefs
According to game developers, the choice of who to support in the Civil War is up to your personal beliefs and values as a gamer. The Imperials represent a structured government with rules and a centralized authority, whereas the Stormcloaks advocate for independence, self-governance, and a loose, tribe-like structure. In this way, the choice is personal and subjective.
Imperials: The Governing Body of Skyrim
The Imperials believe in the establishment of a strong centralized government, enforcing laws and order to ensure the stability and growth of Skyrim. They operate under the flag of the Empire and acknowledge the authority of Emperor Titus Mede II, who has appointed Commander-General of the Imperial Army, General Tullius, as their leader. As a result:
• You will have access to official Imperial headquarters and forts.
• Will receive instructions and quests directly from Imperials.
• Will enjoy the benefits and powers granted to Imperial citizens, such as priority access to marketplaces.
Stormcloaks: The Rebel Freedom Fighters
The Stormcloaks, led by Ulfric Stormcloak and backed by the rebellious dragonborn, believe that Skyrim should break free from Imperial oppression and establish itself as an independent kingdom. They adhere to the principles of Viking culture and lifestyle, emphasizing individual freedoms and self-sufficiency. As a result:
• You will have allies from the Stormcloaks, including famous rebels, Jarls, and warriors.
• Will receive quests to liberate Stormcloak forces and territories from Imperial control.
• Will enjoy access to exclusive Stormcloak armor and equipment, embodying the spirit of Skyrim’s old Viking traditions.
The Influence of Thalmor
Beneath the surface, the real power players lurk – the Thalmor Dominion. They hope to manipulate the conflict, using Skyrim’s internal conflicts to weaken and eventually conquer Skyrim. The choice you make plays into the Thalmor’s desires:
- If you choose the Stormcloaks, it’s likely you’ll contribute to the Thalmor’s desires, as the empire will grow weaker and more divided in the north.
- If you ally with the Imperials, you’d be supporting an Imperial victory over the Stormcloaks, potentially strengthening Imperial control.
- However, defeating the Thalmor directly is crucial either way – the Stormcloaks offer a solution through the rebellion of Stormcloak territory, while the Imperials provide it through Imperial forces backed by an Emperor.
Implications: What Happens After
- Regardless of who you ally with, the world of Skyrim will be forever shaped by your decisions. If you make peace by choosing one or the other, it will be the decisive factor – but if you conquer the opposing forces, it will be either the imperials or the Stormcloaks that establish control.
- Peace will settle, but without a war to resolve the conflict once and for all. In this time, the next major threat rises – The Aldmeri Empire. This ancient powerful force waits in the shadows.
- Additionally, some characters view the Emperor or Ulfric as leaders or oppressors, thus affecting side quests and NPC factions.
Recap: Does it Really Matter?
The choice between Imperials and Stormcloaks ultimately depends on how you experience the world of Skyrim through your character, embracing your own ethics and values within the context of the Skyrim Civil War. It’s impossible to say outright that one choice will outweigh the other entirely. Both path have their fans and their drawbacks as the Imperial forces and the independent Stormcloak rebellion.
Who Should You Ultimately Support?
Supporting Imperials means securing stability within Skyrim, but can lead to further Imperial oversight and control – or even aid the Aldmeri Domination, should they rise too strong to ignore. Choose the Stormcloaks for independence – but risk sparking an endless War of Independence to free Skyrim (and open doors for the dark forces gathering).
No matter where your allegiance rests, the freedom to choose is limitless in this open-world journey.
Take a moment now to reassess your stance regarding the Imperials and Stormcloaks’ struggle; which path represents your values: unity, stability and order from the Empire, or tribal freedom for the Stormcloaks of Skyrim