Who Should I Join in Skyrim? A Comprehensive Guide
In the world of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, players have the opportunity to join various factions that offer rewards, quests, and even role-playing opportunities. However, choosing which faction to join can be a daunting task, especially for new players. In this article, we will explore the different factions in Skyrim, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and purposes to help you make an informed decision.
Factions in Skyrim
Before diving into the details of each faction, let’s take a look at the factions themselves. In Skyrim, you can join nine different factions:
- Dark Brotherhood: A group of assassins who take on contracts for gold and fame.
- Thieves’ Guild: A secret organization of thieves who steal from the wealthy and powerful.
- College of Winterhold: A school of magic where mages can learn new spells and potions.
- Companions: A group of warriors who are dedicated to protecting the people of Skyrim.
- Imperial Legion: A branch of the Imperial army that seeks to take control of Skyrim.
- Stormcloaks: A group of rebels who aim to free Skyrim from Imperial rule.
- Bards College: An organization of bards who spread joy and culture through music and art.
- Brotherhood of Steel: A group of warriors who seek to defend the people of Skyrim from the return of the dragons.
- Jorrvaskr: The war-camp of the Companions, where you can train and become a warrior.
Which Faction is Right for You?
Each faction in Skyrim has its own unique purpose and goals, making it essential to choose the one that aligns with your playstyle and preferences. Here are some tips to help you decide:
- Assassins or Thieves: If you enjoy stealth and sneaking, the Dark Brotherhood or Thieves’ Guild might be for you. Both factions offer quests that involve completing contracts or stealing valuable items.
- Mages: If you’re an avid fan of magic, the College of Winterhold is the perfect choice. Here, you can learn new spells, potions, and incantations to enhance your abilities.
- Warriors: If you enjoy battle and combat, the Companions, Imperial Legion, or Brotherhood of Steel might be your cup of tea. These factions offer quests that involve combat and protecting the people of Skyrim.
- Rebels: If you support the Stormcloaks, you might enjoy joining their ranks. They are fighting against the Imperial occupation of Skyrim.
- Artistic Types: If you appreciate music, art, or theater, the Bards College might be for you. Here, you can attend performances, learn new songs, and share your own artistic talents.
Ultimate Guide to Factions
Here’s a breakdown of each faction, including their strengths, weaknesses, and primary goals:
| Faction | Strengths | Weaknesses | Primary Goal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dark Brotherhood | Powerful allies and impressive gear | Assassination can be morally challenging | Gain the trust of the Emperor’s agent and complete contracts |
| Thieves’ Guild | Skilled thieves and impressive heists | Can be challenging to infiltrate and maintain relationships | Steal the ancient treasure of the Empire |
| College of Winterhold | Access to advanced magic and potions | Limited interaction with the outside world | Unlock the secrets of ancient magic |
| Companions | Battle-hardened warriors and a rich history | Limited magical abilities and heavy emphasis on combat | Protect the people of Skyrim and defeat the dragons |
| Imperial Legion | Powerful and well-equipped soldiers | Limited support from the Empire and potential conflict with native factions | Defeat the Stormcloaks and maintain Imperial rule |
| Stormcloaks | Skilled fighters and strong leadership | Limited access to resources and potential conflict with native factions | Free Skyrim from Imperial rule and unite the people |
| Brotherhood of Steel | Battle-hardened warriors and impressive armor | Limited access to magic and potentially challenging combat | Defend the people of Skyrim from the return of the dragons |
| Jorrvaskr | Access to Companions’ skills and equipment | Limited independence and potential conflict with the Imperial Legion | Protect the people of Skyrim and defend Jorrvaskr |
| Bards College | Access to unique skills and performances | Limited battle capabilities and potential conflict with Imperial authorities | Spread joy and culture throughout Skyrim |
Conclusion
In the world of Skyrim, choosing which faction to join is a crucial decision that can greatly impact your gameplay experience. By considering the strengths, weaknesses, and primary goals of each faction, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your playstyle and preferences. Remember, every faction has its own unique opportunities and challenges, and it’s essential to choose the one that suits you best. Happy gaming!