What Happens if You Join the Stormcloaks in Skyrim?
Joining the Stormcloaks in Skyrim is a crucial decision that can have far-reaching consequences. As the leader of the rebellion against the Imperial Empire, Ulfric Stormcloak seeks to free Skyrim from Imperial rule and establish independence. If you decide to join the Stormcloaks, you’ll be taking a stance against the Empire and committing to fight for the liberation of Skyrim.
Choosing the Stormcloaks
When you start the Civil War questline, you’ll be presented with a choice: join the Imperial Legion or the Stormcloaks. If you choose to join the Stormcloaks, you’ll begin a new storyline that takes you through various battles and quests against the Imperial Legion.
The Stormcloak Leader: Ulfric Stormcloak
Ulfric Stormcloak is the leader of the Stormcloaks and the main protagonist of the rebellion. He’s a charismatic and powerful Nord warrior who believes that Skyrim should be free from Imperial rule. Ulfric is driven by a desire to avenge his father’s death at the hands of the Empire and to free Skyrim from Imperial tyranny.
The Stormcloak Rebellion
The Stormcloak rebellion is a full-scale war against the Imperial Legion. The Stormcloaks seek to capture key cities and forts, including the capital city of Solitude, to weaken the Empire’s hold on Skyrim. As a Stormcloak, you’ll participate in battles against Imperial soldiers, sieges of Imperial strongholds, and raids on Imperial supply lines.
Key Allies and Enemies
As a Stormcloak, you’ll have several key allies and enemies:
- Allies:
- Jarls who support the Stormcloaks, such as Jarl Balgruuf the Greater of Whiterun and Jarl Siddgeir of Falkreath.
- Other Stormcloak rebels, including leaders like Raldbthar and Thongwad.
- Enemies:
- The Imperial Legion, led by General Tullius and Legate Rikke.
- The Empire’s allies, including the Thalmor and the Forsworn.
Consequences of Joining the Stormcloaks
Joining the Stormcloaks has several consequences that can affect your gameplay and the world of Skyrim:
- The Civil War: The Stormcloak rebellion is a key part of the Civil War questline. As a Stormcloak, you’ll participate in battles and quests that drive the war effort.
- Imperial Relations: Joining the Stormcloaks will make it difficult to maintain good relations with the Imperial Legion. You may face hostility and suspicion from Imperial soldiers and officials.
- Nord Relations: As a Stormcloak, you’ll have improved relations with the Nords, who are more likely to support your rebellion.
- Questlines: Joining the Stormcloaks will unlock new questlines and storylines, including battles against Imperial forces and encounters with key characters.
In-Game Consequences
Here are some key in-game consequences of joining the Stormcloaks:
| Consequence | Description |
|---|---|
| Stormcloak Leader | You’ll become the leader of the Stormcloaks, with increased authority and influence over the rebellion. |
| Imperial Hostility | Imperial soldiers and officials will become hostile towards you, making it difficult to travel through Imperial-held territories. |
| Nord Support | Nords will become more supportive of your rebellion, providing resources and assistance to the Stormcloaks. |
| New Questlines | You’ll unlock new questlines and storylines, including battles against Imperial forces and encounters with key characters. |
Conclusion
Joining the Stormcloaks in Skyrim is a significant decision that can have far-reaching consequences. As a Stormcloak, you’ll be fighting for the liberation of Skyrim from Imperial rule and will have to navigate complex relationships with key characters and factions. Remember that joining the Stormcloaks will make it difficult to maintain good relations with the Imperial Legion and may lead to increased hostility from Imperial soldiers and officials.