Should I have Serana turn me into a vampire?
The age-old question that has been on the minds of many a Skyrim player. In the Dawnguard DLC, Serana, the Daughter of Coldharbour, offers the option to become a vampire, a transformation that can bring about significant changes to your character’s abilities and the game world. In this article, we’ll weigh the pros and cons of making the leap into the world of the undead, so you can make an informed decision.
The Benefits of Becoming a Vampire
• Superior abilities: As a vampire, you’ll gain increased resistance to damage, enhanced melee combat capabilities, and improved stamina. These perks will make you a formidable force on the battlefield and give you an edge in exploring the vast wilderness of Skyrim.
• Enhanced senses: Vampires possess enhanced senses, allowing them to see in the dark, detect hidden enemies, and perceive hidden dangers. This can be a significant advantage in exploration, combat, and problem-solving.
• New social interactions: As a vampire, you’ll be able to interact with certain characters in unique ways, opening up new conversations and potentially new quests.
The Drawbacks of Becoming a Vampire
• Curse of vampirism: Being a vampire comes with a curse: you’ll need to hunt for blood to survive, and failure to do so will result in character degradation and eventually, death. This constant need to feed can be stressful and impact your ability to fully explore the world.
• Loss of human connection: As a vampire, you’ll find it difficult to maintain relationships with other humans, who will likely fear or reject you. This can be a significant emotional cost for players who have formed connections with their character’s friends and allies.
• Consequences of exposure: If you’re discovered as a vampire by humans, they’ll often turn hostile, leading to potentially devastating consequences. You’ll need to be constantly vigilant to avoid being detected.
When to Become a Vampire
If you’re considering becoming a vampire, here are a few scenarios where it might make sense:
• As a completionist: If you’re looking to fully explore the world and experience every aspect of Skyrim, becoming a vampire can open up new areas and characters to interact with.
• As a tank character: Vampires possess enhanced melee capabilities, making them a great choice for tanking characters.
• As a character builder: If you’re building a character focused on specific skills or playstyle, becoming a vampire can add a unique twist and create new opportunities.
The Alternative: Staying Human
If becoming a vampire doesn’t appeal to you, there are other options to consider:
• Join the Dawnguard: The Dawnguard is a group of vampires dedicated to reversing the spread of vampirism and restoring balance to the world. Joining their cause can lead to unique storylines and quests.
• Explore the Thieves Guild: The Thieves Guild is a faction that focuses on acquiring and distributing valuable treasures. You can join their ranks and pursue a life of crime without becoming a vampire.
Conclusion
Whether or not to become a vampire in Skyrim is a personal choice that depends on your character’s build, playstyle, and preferences. If you’re willing to adapt to the curse of vampirism and navigate the consequences of exposure, it can be a fascinating and rewarding experience. On the other hand, staying human can be just as engaging, with plenty of other options to explore. Weigh the pros and cons carefully and decide which path is right for you.
Recommendation
Becoming a vampire: Recommended for characters looking for a unique playstyle or experience.
Staying human: Recommended for characters who prioritize relationships and human connection.
Ultimately, the choice is yours.