Should I Do Dragonborn or Dawnguard First?
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is an open-world, action-packed game that offers a wide range of exciting quests and storylines. Two of the most popular DLCs (Downloadable Content) for Skyrim are Dragonborn and Dawnguard. Both DLCs offer unique experiences and challenges, but the question remains: which one should you do first?
Technical and Story-Wise
From a technical standpoint, you can complete both DLCs in any order you prefer. However, it’s essential to note that Dragonborn is significantly harder and requires a higher level than Dawnguard. This is because Dragonborn introduces new enemies, mechanics, and challenges that are more suitable for higher-level characters.
From a story perspective, the order in which you complete the DLCs doesn’t significantly impact the main storyline. Both DLCs are designed to be standalone, and you can complete them at any point in the game.
Benefits of Completing Dawnguard First
While it’s possible to complete both DLCs in any order, there are some benefits to completing Dawnguard first. Here are a few reasons why:
- Easier Challenges: Dawnguard introduces new challenges and enemies, but they are generally easier than those found in Dragonborn. Completing Dawnguard first can help you build your skills and confidence before tackling the more challenging Dragonborn DLC.
- New Skills and Abilities: Dawnguard introduces new skills and abilities, such as the ability to transform into a vampire. These skills can be useful in both DLCs and can help you in your overall gameplay experience.
- Improved Story Understanding: Dawnguard’s storyline is more focused on the vampire lore and the struggle against the vampire lord, Harkon. Completing Dawnguard first can help you understand the overall story and lore of the game better.
Benefits of Completing Dragonborn First
On the other hand, there are some benefits to completing Dragonborn first. Here are a few reasons why:
- More Challenging Experience: Dragonborn is generally considered more challenging than Dawnguard, with tougher enemies and more complex puzzles. Completing Dragonborn first can help you build your skills and confidence before tackling the easier Dawnguard DLC.
- New Environments and Quests: Dragonborn introduces new environments and quests, including the island of Solstheim and the ability to explore the ancient ruins of the dragons. Completing Dragonborn first can help you experience these new environments and quests before moving on to Dawnguard.
- Improved Combat Mechanics: Dragonborn introduces new combat mechanics, including the ability to shout and use dragon shouts. Completing Dragonborn first can help you master these mechanics before moving on to Dawnguard.
Ultimate Decision
Ultimately, the decision to complete Dragonborn or Dawnguard first comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a more challenging experience and want to build your skills and confidence, completing Dragonborn first may be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a more focused storyline and want to experience the new skills and abilities introduced in Dawnguard, completing Dawnguard first may be the better option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both Dragonborn and Dawnguard are excellent DLCs that offer unique experiences and challenges. While there are some benefits to completing each DLC first, the ultimate decision comes down to personal preference. Whether you prefer a more challenging experience or a more focused storyline, both DLCs are worth playing and can enhance your overall gameplay experience.
Table: Comparison of Dragonborn and Dawnguard
| Dragonborn | Dawnguard | |
|---|---|---|
| Difficulty | More challenging | Easier |
| Storyline | More focused on dragons and ancient ruins | More focused on vampire lore and the struggle against Harkon |
| New Skills and Abilities | Shouts, dragon shouts, and the ability to explore ancient ruins | Vampire transformations, new combat mechanics, and the ability to transform into a vampire |
| Environments and Quests | New environments and quests on the island of Solstheim | New environments and quests focused on vampire lore and the struggle against Harkon |
I hope this article helps you make an informed decision about which DLC to complete first. Happy gaming!