Skyrim The Elder Scrolls V: Ultimate Guide for Beginners

Embark on a journey through the breathtaking lands of Skyrim with our comprehensive Skyrim The Elder Scrolls V walkthrough, designed to guide beginners and seasoned adventurers alike through the intricacies of this vast and vibrant world. From towering mountains to deep dungeons, Skyrim's universe is filled with magic, secrets, and dangers at every turn. Whether it's mastering the art of magic, engaging in battles with fearsome dragons, or uncovering hidden secrets, this guide aims to equip you with the knowledge to navigate through its challenges, making every decision and battle count towards your legacy.

This article will cover the essentials of gameplay basics and character creation, ensuring you start your adventure on the right foot. It will guide you through exploring Skyrim and its diverse holds, embarking on main quests filled with lore and intrigue, and discovering side quests and activities that enrich your experience. From participating in the Civil War to collecting Daedric and ancient artifacts, joining Skyrim's factions and guilds, to conquering DLCs like Dawnguard and Dragonborn, this ultimate guide provides a roadmap through the game's expansive content. Whether you're interested in fishing in serene lakes, forging powerful weapons, experimenting with mods, or exploring relationships through marriage in Skyrim, this walkthrough is your comprehensive companion to the secrets and splendors hidden within the realm.

Gameplay Basics and Character Creation

Choosing Your Race

When starting your journey in Skyrim, one of the first and most important decisions involves choosing your character's race. Each of the ten available races not only has a unique appearance but also comes with distinct abilities and initial skill bonuses that can significantly influence your gameplay style.

• Nords are known for their resistance to cold, making them well-suited for Skyrim's harsh environments.
• High Elves have a substantial bonus to their magicka, which is crucial for players intending to use a lot of spells.
• Orcs offer advantages in melee combat and durability, thanks to their Berserker Rage ability.
• Bretons possess innate magical resistance, making them excellent for magic-heavy encounters.

Each race also starts with different bonuses to skills, which can give you a head start in certain areas of the game. For example, Khajiit excel in stealth-related skills, making them perfect for players who prefer a sneakier approach to obstacles.

Designing Your Character

After selecting a race, you can customize your character's appearance, which includes options for skin tone, hair style and color, eye shape and color, and even the addition of scars or war paint. While these choices are predominantly aesthetic and do not impact gameplay directly, they allow you to immerse more deeply into the role-playing element of Skyrim by creating a character that truly represents your vision.

Initial Steps and Survival Tips

Upon completing the game's initial sequence and choosing your character's race and design, you'll find yourself exiting a cave into the vast world of Skyrim. Here are a few survival tips to help you start on the right foot:

1. Follow the Main Quest Initially: It's recommended for beginners to follow the main quest to Riverwood. This path introduces basic game mechanics and leads to essential early-game quests.
2. Utilize the Guardian Stones: Shortly after beginning your journey, you will encounter the Guardian Stones. Activating one of these allows you to gain experience in specific skill sets—combat, magic, or stealth—20% faster.
3. Visit the Local Trader in Riverwood: Engaging with the local trader can lead to a quest involving the nearby Bleak Falls Barrow, a critical early dungeon that ties into the main storyline.
4. Quick Saving: Make frequent use of the quick save feature to avoid losing progress, especially before potentially dangerous encounters.

By carefully selecting your race and customizing your character, followed by taking strategic initial steps, you set the stage for a rewarding and immersive experience in Skyrim.

Exploring Skyrim and Its Diverse Holds

Skyrim, the land of the Nords, is divided into nine distinct Holds, each with its own unique geography, politics, and culture. This section delves into the capitals of these Holds, the interactions with their inhabitants, and the hidden treasures waiting to be discovered by intrepid adventurers.

Understanding Hold Capitals

Each of the nine Holds in Skyrim is governed by a Jarl who resides in the capital city. These capitals are not only political centers but also hubs for commerce and social interaction. For example, Whiterun, located in the center of the province, is known for its bustling marketplace and iconic mead hall, Jorrvaskr, home of the Companions. Solitude, the seat of the High King of Skyrim, offers a more regal experience with its grand architecture and the Blue Palace.

The capitals vary significantly in size and prominence, with some, like Falkreath and Dawnstar, being more rustic and others, like Markarth and Riften, being rich with political intrigue and vibrant economies. Traveling between these capitals can be done on foot, by horse, or via the carriage system, which charges varying fees based on the presence of stables.

Interacting with the People of Skyrim

Skyrim's population is diverse, consisting of Nords, Elves, Orcs, and other races. Each Hold's population has its own opinion about the ongoing civil war and other key events. Interactions with NPCs (non-player characters) can range from simple trade and barter to complex quests and moral choices. For instance, in Riften, players can engage with the Thieves Guild, while in Windhelm, they might become embroiled in the racial tensions between the Nords and the Dark Elves.

The dialogue with NPCs is rich and varied, often reflecting the local culture and the individual's personal history. Players can gain quests, make allies, and sometimes enemies, simply through the choices they make in conversation.

Finding Hidden Locations and Treasures

Skyrim is replete with hidden gems and secret locations that offer unique quests and valuable loot. From the depths of forgotten dungeons to the peaks of treacherous mountains, these locations provide a test of skill and perseverance for players. For example, the unmarked location known as The Chill, a prison made entirely of ice, guarded by Frost Atronachs, offers a unique challenge and rewards for those daring enough to explore it.

Other notable hidden locations include Blackreach, an extensive underground network filled with dangerous foes and valuable resources, and the secluded Angi's Camp, where players can improve their archery skills and obtain a unique bow. Each hidden location often contains a piece of Skyrim's rich lore, a rare item, or a challenging enemy, making exploration a rewarding aspect of the game.

Skyrim's diverse Holds offer a rich tapestry of experiences, from interacting with its inhabitants to uncovering its deepest secrets. Whether you're negotiating with a Jarl, bartering in a local market, or uncovering ancient treasures, Skyrim promises a wealth of adventures that are as varied as its landscape.

Embarking on Main Quests

The Path to Becoming the Dragonborn

The journey of the Dragonborn is one filled with peril and discovery, as players engage in a series of pivotal quests that shape the destiny of Skyrim and its inhabitants. The main questline begins with "Unbound," where players make their daring escape from the village of Helgen, under attack by Alduin. This initial experience sets the stage for the discovery of the player's identity as the Dragonborn.

Key Quests and Dragon Encounters

Following the escape, the Dragonborn embarks on a quest called "Before the Storm," which leads to the first major dragon encounter in "Dragon Rising." Here, players face their first dragon outside the Western Watchtower, marking a significant turning point in the game. The subsequent quests, including "The Way of the Voice" and "The Horn of Jurgen Windcaller," guide players to the ancient Greybeards who provide further training and insights into the Dragonborn's powers.

The quests "A Blade in the Dark" and "Diplomatic Immunity" further entangle the Dragonborn in the political intrigue and the looming dragon threat. Each quest introduces new challenges and allies, including the secretive Blades and the powerful Greybeards.

Defeating Alduin: Tips and Strategies

The climax of the Dragonborn's journey involves several confrontations with Alduin, the World-Eater. The quest "Alduin's Bane" is a critical encounter where players must utilize the Dragonrend shout to force Alduin to land, making him vulnerable to attacks. It is essential to equip resist fire potions or enchantments due to Alduin's devastating fire breath.

Players are advised to have a follower, such as Mjoll or Lydia, who can absorb some of the damage during these intense battles. Utilizing the "Clear Skies" shout can clear meteor showers summoned by Alduin, providing a strategic advantage. The environment also offers cover, which can be used to avoid direct confrontations with Alduin while he is airborne.

The final battle, "Sovngarde," takes place in the mystical realm where ancient heroes aid the Dragonborn in the ultimate fight against Alduin. Strategies for this battle include continuous use of the Dragonrend shout to keep Alduin grounded and managing cooldowns effectively to maintain the offensive pressure.

By following these quests and employing effective strategies against Alduin, players not only progress through the main storyline but also fulfill the prophecy of the Dragonborn, destined to save Skyrim from destruction.

Discovering Side Quests and Activities

Restoring Holy Trees and Solving Mysteries

In the heart of Whiterun lies the Gildergreen, a tree revered by followers of Kynareth but now in a state of decay. The quest, "The Blessings of Nature," tasks players with aiding Danica Pure-Spring in reviving this once-vibrant tree. Players must retrieve the sap of the Eldergleam, the parent tree, located in the serene Eldergleam Sanctuary. This sanctuary, while peaceful, holds its challenges, especially when deciding between cutting the roots with Nettlebane or following Maurice Jondrelle's peaceful resolution which avoids conflict with the Spriggans.

1. Collect Nettlebane: The first step involves obtaining Nettlebane from a hagraven at Orphan Rock.
2. Journey to Eldergleam Sanctuary: Navigate the path blocked by the Eldergleam's roots, using Nettlebane to clear the way.
3. Choose Your Approach: Decide whether to cut the tree for sap, triggering a Spriggan attack, or allow Maurice to negotiate a sapling, preserving the sanctuary’s peace.

This quest not only explores the environmental lore of Skyrim but also tests the player's decision-making, impacting the sanctuary's tranquility.

Civic Engagement and Miscellaneous Quests

Skyrim's vibrant community life presents various opportunities for civic engagement and involvement in local disputes and politics. One notable interaction occurs during the quest "Blood on the Ice," where players investigate a series of murders in Windhelm, revealing deep-seated conflicts and secrets within the city. This quest highlights the complexities of civic life in Skyrim, where players' decisions can have lasting impacts on the community's perception and alignment.

Fishing and Other Recreational Activities

Recreational activities in Skyrim offer a pleasant diversion from the usual questing and combat. Fishing in Skyrim's abundant rivers and lakes provides not only relaxation but also resources like ingredients for cooking and alchemy. Additionally, players can engage in traditional games with the local populace:

• Tag and Hide-and-Seek: Simple yet engaging games played by the children of Skyrim, offering a glimpse into the everyday life of its younger residents.
• Teeba-Enoo and Teeba-Hatsei: These lesser-known Argonian sports provide unique cultural insights and entertainment.
• Vosh Ball: An Orcish game that emphasizes the fierce and competitive spirit of Orc clans.

These activities enrich the player's experience, adding layers of depth to the character's interaction with the world and its inhabitants.

Participating in the Civil War

Choosing Sides: Stormcloaks vs. Imperials

In "Skyrim The Elder Scrolls V," players face a pivotal decision that significantly influences their journey: choosing between the Stormcloaks and the Imperials. This choice not only alters the political landscape of Skyrim but also affects NPC interactions and the player's experience throughout the game.

• Stormcloaks: Led by Ulfric Stormcloak, this faction fights for Skyrim's independence from the Empire and the right to worship Talos freely. Players aligning with the Stormcloaks will see cities like Whiterun and Solitude shift under new leadership, reflecting their victory in battles.
• Imperials: Commanded by General Tullius, the Imperials strive to maintain unity and order in Skyrim, representing the Tamrielic Empire. Choosing this side means supporting stability and the existing hierarchy, affecting the control of major holds and cities across the region.

Major Battles and Strategic Moves

The Civil War in Skyrim involves numerous strategic battles where players must capture key locations and make tactical decisions that influence the war's outcome. Participating in these battles requires raiding enemy forts and holds, each victory bringing the player's chosen faction closer to dominance.

1. Battle Tactics: Choosing when and where to engage in battle can determine the success of the campaign. For instance, Stormcloak players might attack Fort Sungard or Fort Snowhawk, pivotal in gaining control over the Reach and Hjaalmarch, respectively.
2. Siege of Cities: Major cities such as Whiterun and Solitude become central battlefields, with the outcomes significantly altering political control and daily life within these cities.

Implications of Your Choice on Skyrim

The consequences of choosing a side in the Civil War extend beyond immediate battle outcomes. They reshape the entire landscape of Skyrim, influencing everything from leadership and local politics to NPC behaviors and player reputation.

• Leadership Changes: Victory in the Civil War leads to the reassignment of Jarls based on allegiance. For example, siding with the Stormcloaks might result in Vignar Grey-Mane becoming Jarl of Whiterun.
• NPC Interactions: The allegiance of the player can affect how NPCs interact with them. For instance, Stormcloak soldiers will defend the player in battles, reflecting the respect and camaraderie developed through shared combat.
• Control of Territories: The control of territories shifts based on the victorious side, impacting which factions patrol areas and how safe or hostile these are for the player.

The decision to participate in the Civil War in "Skyrim The Elder Scrolls V" is a defining moment, offering a complex layer of strategic gameplay and narrative impact that enriches the overall experience.

Collecting Daedric and Ancient Artifacts

Seeking Out Malevolent Deities

In the realm of Skyrim, the allure of Daedric artifacts is tied closely to the malevolent deities from whom these powerful items originate. Each artifact embodies the essence and power of a Daedric Prince, offering unique abilities that can significantly influence gameplay. For adventurers eager to harness such powers, understanding the origins and characteristics of these artifacts is crucial.

• Mehrunes Dagon is known for his destructive influences, crafting items like Mehrunes' Razor, a dagger with the potential to kill instantly.
• Molag Bal, the Prince of domination, offers the Mace of Molag Bal, enhancing combat with abilities to drain life and trap souls.
• Meridia, a prince with a deep-seated hatred for the undead, provides Dawnbreaker—a sword causing explosive damage to undead enemies.

These artifacts are not only tools of power but also of strategic advantage, reflecting the diverse and intricate lore of the Daedric Princes.

Guides to Acquiring Powerful Artifacts

Acquiring Daedric artifacts involves embarking on quests that are as challenging as they are rewarding. Each artifact requires the completion of specific Daedric quests, which are often intertwined with the whims and machinations of the corresponding Daedric Prince.

1. The Quest for Mehrunes' Razor involves navigating the "Pieces of the Past" quest, where players must decide the fate of the Razor's fragments.
2. Retrieving the Mace of Molag Bal means delving into "The House of Horrors" in Markarth, a quest that tests one's morality and resolve.
3. Dawnbreaker is obtained through "The Break of Dawn" quest, guiding players on a mission dictated by Meridia to cleanse her temple of darkness.

Each quest not only brings players closer to these coveted items but also deeper into the personal stories of the Daedric Princes, offering a complex layer to character development and game dynamics.

Utilizing Artifacts in Your Adventure

Once obtained, Daedric artifacts can be pivotal in shaping the adventures in Skyrim. Their unique properties can turn the tide in battles, solve complex puzzles, or open new paths in the storyline. Here’s how some of these artifacts can be integrated into gameplay:

• Mehrunes' Razor offers a rare chance of instant victory in combat, ideal for high-risk encounters.
• The Mace of Molag Bal is perfect for players focusing on soul collection to boost their enchanting skills.
• Dawnbreaker is particularly effective in dungeons infested with undead, clearing swathes of enemies with its holy fire.

Players must strategically choose when and where to wield these artifacts, as their powers come with limitations and consequences that can alter the course of the game.

By understanding the lore, undertaking the quests, and skillfully utilizing their powers, players can maximize the benefits of these ancient and powerful artifacts, making every moment in Skyrim not just a battle for survival, but a quest for legendary status.

Joining Skyrim's Factions and Guilds

The Companions and the College of Winterhold

Joining the Companions begins near Whiterun, where adventurers might witness a group battling a giant. Engaging with these warriors post-battle can lead to an introduction to Kodlak Whitemane and the quest "Take Up Arms." This quest involves a training exercise with Vilkas and marks the initiation into the faction. The Companions offer training in warrior skills and access to werewolf transformation, providing both a combat advantage and a unique gameplay experience.

The College of Winterhold, located precariously on a cliff north of the town of Winterhold, requires potential members to demonstrate their magical capabilities before joining. This can be achieved by casting a specific spell or convincing Faralda, the gatekeeper, of one's worthiness through other magical means. Membership grants access to a wide array of magical trainers and resources, significantly benefiting those pursuing the path of a mage.

The Thieves Guild and the Dark Brotherhood

For those inclined towards stealth and subterfuge, the Thieves Guild in Riften offers an opportunity to hone thievery skills. Joining the guild involves a series of preliminary tasks that demonstrate the player's sneakiness and agility. Once a member, individuals gain access to specialized trainers and equipment that enhance thieving capabilities, making future heists and pickpocketing endeavors easier.

The Dark Brotherhood, a notorious faction of assassins, requires the completion of the quest "Innocence Lost" as an initiation. After this, the player is abducted and taken to a secretive location where loyalty is tested through a choice of executing one of several hostages. This guild focuses on stealth and assassination, with quests that often involve high-profile targets, providing a dark but thrilling narrative arc.

Benefits and Responsibilities of Faction Membership

Joining a faction in Skyrim is not just about gaining new allies and resources; it also involves certain responsibilities and adhering to the faction's rules. Members are typically prohibited from harming or stealing from their fellow faction members without facing serious repercussions. For example, acts of theft or aggression within the faction can lead to expulsion or hostility from other members.

Each faction also offers unique benefits, such as special armor sets, access to exclusive areas, and the ability to engage in specific quests that are not available to non-members. For instance, the Thieves Guild provides access to fences who buy stolen goods, while membership in the College of Winterhold offers significant advantages for magic users, including powerful new spells and equipment.

Faction membership enhances the role-playing experience by allowing players to align with groups that reflect their character's skills and moral choices, impacting the game's narrative and the player's influence within the virtual world.

Conquering DLCs: Dawnguard and Dragonborn

Dawnguard: Vampires vs. Vampire Hunters

To dive into the Dawnguard DLC, players should engage with guards in or around major cities, who will hint at the Dawnguard faction. This leads to the 'Dawnguard' quest, guiding players to Dayspring Canyon and then to Fort Dawnguard to commence 'Awakening'. Dawnguard introduces a conflict between vampires and vampire hunters, offering players a choice to join either side. Each path presents unique challenges and rewards, from wielding a new crossbow to transforming into a Vampire Lord. Notably, players can switch allegiances, becoming a Vampire Lord even after joining the Dawnguard, offering flexibility in gameplay.

1. Initiate the Quest: Speak to city guards to learn about the Dawnguard.
2. Visit Fort Dawnguard: Follow the quest marker to begin 'Awakening'.
3. Choose Your Side: Decide between the Dawnguard and vampires, each with distinct perks.

Dragonborn: Encountering the First Dragonborn

The Dragonborn DLC whisks players away to Solstheim, following an attack by cultists. To start this adventure, players should complete 'The Way of the Voice' and then encounter cultists in a major city, who, after a confrontation, leave clues leading to Windhelm docks. From there, convincing Gjalund Salt-Sage to sail to Solstheim begins the quest. This DLC centers around the confrontation with Miraak, the first Dragonborn, offering new quests, characters, and the ability to tame and ride dragons. The rich storyline and additional content significantly expand the Skyrim universe.

1. Encounter the Cultists: After 'The Way of the Voice', find and confront the cultists.
2. Travel to Solstheim: Convince or pay Gjalund at Windhelm docks for passage.
3. Confront Miraak: Delve into the mystery of the first Dragonborn and face new challenges.

Expanding Your Adventure Beyond Skyrim

Both Dawnguard and Dragonborn DLCs not only introduce new storylines but also expand the gameplay with new characters, locations, and abilities. From the vampire-infested Castle Volkihar to the ash-covered island of Solstheim, players explore diverse landscapes. Each DLC offers unique abilities, such as the Vampire Lord form and dragon riding, enhancing the Skyrim experience.

• New Abilities and Equipment: Gain unique powers like the Vampire Lord form and access to dragon riding.
• Explore New Locations: Discover Fort Dawnguard, Castle Volkihar, and the island of Solstheim.
• Engage with New Characters: Encounter new NPCs and factions, each with their own stories and quests.

Both DLCs offer players the chance to delve deeper into the lore of Skyrim, facing new foes, uncovering hidden secrets, and wielding incredible powers. Whether siding with the Dawnguard to eradicate the vampire threat or traversing the realms of Hermaeus Mora in Dragonborn, these expansions enrich the Skyrim adventure, offering countless hours of exploration and discovery.

Conclusion

As our journey through the sprawling lands of Skyrim within "The Elder Scrolls V" draws to a close, it becomes evident how vast and deeply immersive this world is. From the character's first breath taken after the harrowing escape from Helgen, to the climactic battles against the World-Eater Alduin, and onto the complex intricacies of navigating the civil war or aligning with Skyrim's factions and guilds, every path carved out is unique. The guide laid out before you serves not only as a navigational tool through Skyrim's many quests and challenges but also as a testament to the rich, interwoven narratives that make this game a seminal experience in the world of video gaming.

Embarking on side quests, collecting ancient Daedric artifacts, or exploring the added depths brought on by the Dawnguard and Dragonborn DLCs further amplifies the essence of freedom and adventure that defines Skyrim. Remember, the choices made, from the race of your character to the allegiances formed, shape the world around you, imbuing your journey with personal significance. As you step back into the world, may your adventures continue to be as boundless as the skies above Tamriel, forever reminding us of the enduring legacy of "Skyrim The Elder Scrolls V."

FAQs

What Should I Do First in Skyrim?

The initial step in Skyrim is to select a Standing Stone. These are mystical stones found throughout the land, allowing players to choose a sign, akin to selecting a birth sign in previous games. This choice can be changed at any time by finding and choosing another stone.

Is Skyrim Suitable for First-Time Players?

Yes, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is accessible to beginners, though its vast, open world and the immediate plunge into action can seem overwhelming. Despite its seemingly complex nature, the game is not overly difficult but offers limited guidance for navigating its expansive environment.

Where Can I Find a Skyrim Guide?

The "Explorer's Guide to Skyrim" is an in-game book that serves as a partial guide. It uniquely enables the Dragonborn to add the locations of various standing stones to their map, aiding in exploration and discovery, especially if these locations haven't been found yet.

Whom Should I Follow at Skyrim's Start?

At the beginning of Skyrim, you have the choice to follow Ralof to align with the Stormcloaks and support Skyrim's quest for freedom. This decision not only influences your initial alliances but also opens up opportunities to exploit certain game mechanics to enhance your skills early on.