Should I Join Dawnguard or Vampires?
The choice between joining the Dawnguard or embracing vampirism in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is a crucial one, as it will significantly impact your character’s abilities and playstyle. In this article, we’ll weigh the pros and cons of each faction and help you make an informed decision.
Understanding the Factions
Dawnguard:
The Dawnguard is a faction of vampires hunters, tasked with wiping out the vampire menace in Skyrim. They offer a more traditional heroic approach, fighting against the forces of darkness and evil.
Vampires:
Vampirism, on the other hand, is a dark and mysterious force that can grant you immense powers and abilities. By joining the vampire faction, you’ll be able to wield these powers and walk in the shadows, exploiting the fear of mortals.
Benefits of Joining the Dawnguard:
- Unique Abilities: Dawnguard members have access to specialized skills and abilities, such as the "Vampire Dust" power, which can repel vampires and turn them to dust.
- Immersive Storyline: The Dawnguard storyline is deeply connected to the lore of Skyrim, providing a rich and immersive narrative experience.
- Fight Against Evil: As a member of the Dawnguard, you’ll be fighting against the forces of darkness and evil, which can be a rewarding experience for those who enjoy a heroic approach.
Drawbacks of Joining the Dawnguard:
- Limited Powers: Dawnguard members don’t have access to the same level of powers as vampires, which can be a disadvantage in combat and exploration.
- Conventional Playstyle: The Dawnguard’s heroic approach may be less appealing to those who enjoy playing as an anti-hero or a dark character.
Benefits of Embracing Vampirism:
- Unique Powers: Vampires have access to a wide range of unique powers and abilities, such as "Summon Vampire" and "Transform into Bat."
- Immortal: Vampires are immortal, making them a formidable force on the battlefield and in exploration.
- Walk in the Shadows: As a vampire, you’ll be able to move unseen and strike from the shadows, making you a master of stealth and deception.
Drawbacks of Embracing Vampirism:
- Risk of Corruption: The vampiric curse can slowly corrupt your character, causing them to lose their connection to their humanity.
- Isolation: As a vampire, you may find it difficult to connect with mortals, who may view you with suspicion and fear.
- Limited Connection to the Story: The vampiric storyline may be less connected to the main narrative of Skyrim, which can be a drawback for those who enjoy a cohesive storyline.
Choosing the Right Faction:
- Roleplaying: If you’re looking for a heroic or traditional roleplaying experience, the Dawnguard may be the better choice.
- Exploration and Combat: If you’re looking for a more complex and dynamic gameplay experience, vampirism may be the way to go.
- Personal Preference: Ultimately, the choice between joining the Dawnguard or embracing vampirism comes down to personal preference.
Table: Dawnguard vs. Vampires
| Category | Dawnguard | Vampires |
|---|---|---|
| Abilities | Unique vampire dust power | Unique vampiric powers |
| Storyline | Immersive narrative | Limited connection to main story |
| Powers | Limited | Immortal, unique abilities |
| Playstyle | Heroic | Stealthy, dark |
In conclusion, the choice between joining the Dawnguard or embracing vampirism in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is a crucial one, with both factions offering unique benefits and drawbacks. By understanding the pros and cons of each faction, you’ll be better equipped to make an informed decision that fits your playstyle and personal preferences.