Is it Better to Join Volkihar or Dawnguard?
Joining either the Volkihar or Dawnguard factions in the Skyrim’s Dawnguard DLC expansion can be a daunting task, especially with the numerous benefits and drawbacks associated with each side. In this article, we’ll delve into the pros and cons of each faction, helping you make an informed decision about which one to join.
Direct Answer
To answer the question directly, joining the Dawnguard is generally considered the better choice. The Dawnguard offers more significant benefits, including access to unique equipment, powerful magic, and a stronger narrative progression. Additionally, the Dawnguard’s quests are more engaging and varied, providing a more fulfilling experience.
Volkihar vs. Dawnguard: Key Differences
Here are some key differences between the two factions:
Table: Volkihar vs. Dawnguard Key Differences
| Volkihar | Dawnguard | |
|---|---|---|
| Benefits | Free access to Volkihar Keep, mortal thralls for safer feeding, ability to transform into a Vampire Lord | Access to unique equipment, powerful magic, stronger narrative progression, varied and engaging quests |
| Quests | Quests are primarily centered around the vampire lore, with a focus on protecting the vampire clan | Quests are more varied, including vampire-hunting, vampire-creation, and dealing with the Vampire Lord |
| Noble or Vampire Lord? | You can become a Noble, a high-ranking vampire, or a Vampire Lord, with significant abilities and powers | You can become a Vampire Lord, with the ability to transform into a powerful vampire |
| Story Progression | The story progression is more linear, with a focus on the vampire lore | The story progression is more varied, with a focus on the conflict between vampires and humans |
Benefits of Joining the Dawnguard
H2: Unique Equipment and Magic
Joining the Dawnguard grants you access to unique equipment and magic, which can significantly enhance your character’s abilities. The Dawnguard’s equipment is specifically designed for vampire-hunting, making it ideal for players who prefer a more aggressive playstyle. The magic available to the Dawnguard is also incredibly powerful, allowing for effective crowd control and damage.
H2: Powerful Narrative Progression
The Dawnguard’s story progression is more varied and engaging, with a focus on the conflict between vampires and humans. The Dawnguard’s quests are designed to challenge your character and test their abilities, providing a more fulfilling experience. Additionally, the Dawnguard’s narrative progression is more linear, making it easier to follow and understand.
H2: Varied and Engaging Quests
The Dawnguard’s quests are more varied and engaging, including vampire-hunting, vampire-creation, and dealing with the Vampire Lord. These quests provide a more dynamic experience, with a focus on player choice and agency. The Dawnguard’s quests are also more challenging, requiring strategic thinking and skill.
Benefits of Joining Volkihar
H2: Free Access to Volkihar Keep
Joining Volkihar grants you free access to Volkihar Keep, a powerful stronghold with numerous benefits. The Keep is a safe haven, providing a place to store your loot and regroup with your allies. The Keep also contains various workshops, allowing you to craft and upgrade your equipment.
H2: Mortal Thralls for Safer Feeding
The Volkihar provides you with mortal thralls, which can be used for safer feeding. Mortal thralls are immune to the effects of garlic and sunlight, making it safer to feed on them. This is particularly useful for players who prefer to focus on combat rather than sneaking around.
H2: Ability to Transform into a Vampire Lord
Joining the Volkihar allows you to transform into a Vampire Lord, a powerful and prestigious title. As a Vampire Lord, you’ll gain access to significant abilities and powers, including increased strength, agility, and magic. This transformation also provides a sense of accomplishment and pride.
Conclusion
In conclusion, joining the Dawnguard is generally considered the better choice. The Dawnguard offers more significant benefits, including access to unique equipment, powerful magic, and a stronger narrative progression. The Dawnguard’s quests are also more engaging and varied, providing a more fulfilling experience. While the Volkihar has its own benefits, including free access to Volkihar Keep and mortal thralls for safer feeding, the Dawnguard provides a more comprehensive and enjoyable experience.