Should I Join the Thieves Guild or Dark Brotherhood?
In the world of Skyrim, the Thieves Guild and Dark Brotherhood offer two distinct paths for your character to take. Both factions have their own unique benefits, and choosing which one to join can significantly impact your gameplay experience. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of joining each faction, helping you make an informed decision.
Direct Answer: Join the Thieves Guild or Dark Brotherhood?
Ultimately, the decision to join the Thieves Guild or Dark Brotherhood depends on your character’s playstyle and goals. If you enjoy stealth, sneakiness, and getting rich, the Thieves Guild might be the better choice. However, if you prefer a more sinister path, with a focus on murder and deception, the Dark Brotherhood is the way to go.
Thieves Guild Benefits:
- Better Rewards: The Thieves Guild offers better rewards than the Dark Brotherhood, including more gold, precious items, and exclusive equipment.
- Fences and Discounts: As a member of the Thieves Guild, you’ll gain access to fences who can buy stolen goods from you, and receive discounts on items and services.
- Money and Bribing Guards: The Thieves Guild provides you with a steady stream of income and allows you to bribe guards, making it easier to complete quests and avoid trouble.
Dark Brotherhood Benefits:
- Unique Items: The Dark Brotherhood offers exclusive items, such as the Blade of Woe and Shadowmere, which are not available through the Thieves Guild.
- No Honor System: As a member of the Dark Brotherhood, your honor remains intact, allowing you to continue committing murders without fear of consequences.
- Dark Brotherhood Quests: The Dark Brotherhood provides a unique set of quests that explore the darker side of Skyrim’s lore.
Minutemen and the Brotherhood of Steel:
If you’re considering joining the Brotherhood of Steel, you may wonder how the Minutemen will react. According to lore, the Minutemen are neutral and will not judge you based on your affiliation with the Brotherhood of Steel. However, if you choose to join House, you will be forced to destroy the Brotherhood.
Can You Side with House Without Killing the Brotherhood?
The answer is no. If you’re considering siding with House, you must be prepared to destroy the Brotherhood of Steel. The only way to keep the Brotherhood alive is to ally them with the NCR or tell Yes Man to ignore them.
Comparison Table:
| Faction | Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|
| Thieves Guild | Better rewards, fences, discounts, money, and bribing guards | Limited quests, no honor system |
| Dark Brotherhood | Unique items, no honor system, Dark Brotherhood quests | More morally complex, may affect your character’s personality |
Conclusion:
Choosing between the Thieves Guild and Dark Brotherhood ultimately depends on your character’s goals and playstyle. If you enjoy the thrill of stealth and getting rich, the Thieves Guild is the better choice. However, if you prefer a more sinister path, with a focus on murder and deception, the Dark Brotherhood is the way to go. Remember to consider the implications of your choice, as it may impact your character’s personality and the world around them.
Final Thoughts:
Joining the Thieves Guild or Dark Brotherhood is a significant decision that can shape your character’s experience in Skyrim. While both factions have their pros and cons, ultimately, the choice is yours. Remember to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each faction before making your decision.