What does killing dragons do in Skyrim?

What Does Killing Dragons Do in Skyrim?

Killing dragons in Skyrim can be a daunting task, but it’s also a crucial part of progressing through the game. So, what exactly happens when you kill a dragon in Skyrim? In this article, we’ll dive into the details and explore what benefits and consequences come with defeating these mighty beasts.

Harvesting Scales and Bones

One of the most obvious benefits of killing dragons is harvesting their scales and bones. Dragon scales and dragon bones are used to craft powerful Dragon Armor, which is both visually impressive and highly effective in combat. There are two types of Dragon Armor: Light Armor and Heavy Armor, with the latter requiring a significant amount of dragon bones and scales to craft. Light Armor, on the other hand, requires less resources but still offers a formidable defense.

Here’s a breakdown of the Dragon Armor crafting requirements:

Souls and Dragon Souls

Killing dragons also allows you to absorb their souls, which can be used to learn new Dragon Shouts. There are 20 Dragon Shouts in total, and each one requires a certain amount of Dragon Souls to learn. Dragon Shouts are powerful abilities that can be used in combat or to solve puzzles.

Here’s a list of the Dragon Shouts and the required Dragon Souls:

Rewards and Penalties

In addition to harvesting scales and bones, killing dragons also grants you rewards and penalties. Here are a few notable examples:

• Reward: Dragon Hunter: Killing a dragon will give you the "Dragon Hunter" title, which increases your reputation with certain NPCs.
• Penalty: Dragon Worry: Killing too many dragons can lead to "Dragon Worry", which affects your reputation with the College of Winterhold. NPCs may view you as reckless or irresponsible.

When to Kill Dragons

Not all dragons need to be killed, however. In fact, some are quite friendly and can be convinced to spare your life. Here are some general guidelines on when to kill a dragon:

• Guarding a Dragon Priest: Dragons that guard a Dragon Priest will not give you Dragon Souls or scales.
• Protecting an ancient Nord ruin: Some dragons protect ancient Nord ruins and will not attack you unless provoked.
• Confronting Alduin: Killing Alduin is required to progress through the game, so be prepared for a tough battle.

Conclusion

Killing dragons in Skyrim is a crucial part of the game, but it’s not without its risks and rewards. By harvesting scales and bones, learning Dragon Shouts, and acquiring the "Dragon Hunter" title, you can enhance your gameplay experience and prepare yourself for the challenges that lie ahead. Just be sure to consider the penalties and consequences of killing dragons, and always be prepared for a tough battle!