The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim – Your Guide to Becoming a Werewolf

The mystique of lycanthropy in Skyrim continues to captivate players around the world, offering a unique twist to the traditional RPG experience. Transforming into a Skyrim werewolf not only provides an exhilarating sense of power but also introduces a new layer of strategy and character development within the game. This aspect of the game allows players to explore the rich lore of Skyrim werewolves, experience the thrill of werewolf running through the cold, enchanting landscapes, and navigate the complexities of werewolf transformation and lycanthropy. Understanding how to become a werewolf in Skyrim, and effectively using this power, can significantly enhance the gameplay experience.

This article serves as a comprehensive guide on embracing the beast within. Starting with joining the Companions, one of Skyrim's most esteemed guilds, readers will learn the steps to delve deeper into the Companions' questline, leading to the pivotal Silver Hand quest and the subsequent ritual in "Blood's Honor" that unlocks the werewolf transformation. Additionally, we will cover the unique werewolf abilities and perks, strategies for mastering werewolf form, and options for those seeking a Skyrim werewolf cure. Whether you're curious about how to turn into a werewolf in Skyrim for the first time or looking to refine your skills as a seasoned lycan, this guide will navigate the moonlit path of the Skyrim werewolves.

Joining the Companions

To embark on the path of becoming a werewolf in Skyrim, one must first gain membership with the Companions, the renowned fighters' guild based in Whiterun. This guild, known for its valor and combat prowess, holds a deeply guarded secret about lycanthropy that is revealed only to its inner circle members. Here’s a detailed guide on how to join the Companions and start your journey towards embracing your inner beast.

Step One: Make Contact

The most straightforward way to initiate contact with the Companions is by visiting their headquarters, Jorrvaskr, located in the plains outside Whiterun. This massive mead hall, situated near the entrance to Dragonreach, is hard to miss. Alternatively, adventurers might first encounter the Companions near Pelagia Farm, just outside Whiterun, where they can be seen battling a giant. Assisting them in this fight or simply speaking to Aela the Huntress afterwards can also serve as a good introduction, earning some initial favor with the group.

Step Two: Get With The In Crowd

Upon arriving at Jorrvaskr, the next step is to mingle with the guild members and seek an audience with Kodlak Whitemane, the Harbinger of the Companions. Despite his non-commanding role, Kodlak's approval is crucial for any new recruit. Players must then prove their worth by engaging in a sparring session with Vilkas, one of the senior warriors who is initially skeptical of new members. This combat test must be undertaken using melee weapons or bare fists, and enchanted weapons are not allowed.

After demonstrating sufficient combat skills, Vilkas will entrust the player with a sword, tasking them to take it to Eorlund Gray-Mane at the Skyforge for sharpening. This interaction also provides an opportunity to learn about the rich history of the Companions from Eorlund, who is regarded as the best blacksmith in Skyrim. Following this, the player is asked to deliver a newly forged shield back to Aela the Huntress.

Step Three: You’re In, Kid

Successfully completing these initial tasks leads to an invitation to join the Companions officially. The player is then included in a brief initiation ceremony and given access to the living quarters where they can claim a bed and a secure dresser for personal storage. At this point, one can start accepting quests from various members of the guild. These quests not only strengthen the player's standing within the guild but also gradually lead to the discovery of the secret circle within the Companions known as "The Circle," where the path to becoming a werewolf begins.

Progressing Through the Companions' Questline

Once officially inducted into the Companions, players must navigate a series of both main and side quests which are crucial for progression and ultimately achieving the ability to transform into a werewolf. The questline is structured to intersperse core quests with radiant, or repeatable, quests that must be completed to advance.

Core Quests and Progression

The journey through the Companions' questline involves several key missions that players must complete. Here’s a breakdown of the core quests:

1. Take Up Arms - An introductory quest where players prove their worth.
2. Proving Honor - Players retrieve a fragment of Wuuthrad, the legendary battle-axe.
3. The Silver Hand - This quest formally introduces players to the werewolves' struggle against their sworn enemies, the Silver Hand.
4. Blood's Honor - A pivotal quest involving the retrieval of the fragments of Wuuthrad.
5. Purity of Revenge - Avenging the fallen Companions.
6. Glory of the Dead - The final quest where players can choose to cure themselves of lycanthropy or embrace it fully.

Radiant Quests: Gaining Favor and Experience

In between the core quests, players are required to undertake radiant quests. These are smaller, repeatable quests that serve to solidify the player's reputation within the guild and provide additional training. Common radiant quests include:

• Animal Exclusion - Hunting down a specific dangerous animal.
• Family Heirloom - Retrieving a stolen family artifact.
• Hired Muscle - Intimidating a local resident to assert the influence of the Companions.
• Retrieval - Recovering stolen goods or important items.
• Trouble in Skyrim - Dealing with bandits or other threats.
• Striking the Heart - Assassinating key members of rival groups.
• Purity - Helping a fellow Companion cleanse their lycanthropy.

Navigating Quest Requirements

Players often find that after completing a mainline quest, they must complete several side quests before the next main quest becomes available. This number can vary, sometimes only one is needed, other times more. These side quests are not just fillers; they provide essential experience and prepare players for the challenges of the upcoming main quests.

For instance, working closely with Aela the Huntress on retrieval missions for pieces of Wuuthrad and secret plans is crucial. These items are significant and should never be sold as they are integral to later quests. Aela's missions often serve as a gateway to the next core quest, guiding players back to the guild's leader for the next significant step in the storyline.

By understanding the structure of these quests and the requirements for progression, players can efficiently navigate their journey through the Companions' questline, moving closer to unlocking the powerful and savage form of the Skyrim werewolf.

The Silver Hand Quest

Initiating the Quest

The journey to becoming a werewolf in Skyrim intensifies with "The Silver Hand" quest, which players can start by speaking to Skjor of the Companions. After demonstrating their prowess in "Proving Honor," adventurers are directed to meet Skjor at the Underforge at night. The entrance to this clandestine meeting spot is subtly marked along the rock wall near Jorrvaskr. Players need to ensure it is night time, utilizing the wait feature if necessary, to proceed with the initiation.

The Ritual of Transformation

Inside the Underforge, the ritual to become a werewolf takes place. Skjor, alongside Aela the Huntress, introduces the Dragonborn to the blood ritual. Aela willingly cuts her wrist to fill a central fountain with her blood, which the Dragonborn must activate. Upon engaging with the fountain, players are granted the Beast Form and experience their first transformation into a werewolf, marking a pivotal moment in their journey.

Raid on Gallows Rock

Post-transformation, the quest leads to Gallows Rock, a known Silver Hand stronghold. Here, players, accompanied by Aela, must navigate through the fort's defenses. The initial approach involves entering a stone bunker and pulling a chain to lower a gate, revealing the path forward. The interior of Gallows Rock is grimly adorned with werewolf heads, showcasing the Silver Hand's disdain for lycanthropes.

Confrontation with Krev the Skinner

The climax of the quest occurs in a confrontation with Krev the Skinner. Krev, along with three archers, poses a significant challenge. Strategies for this encounter include targeting the archers first to reduce incoming damage, then focusing attacks on Krev. For those in werewolf form, using the fear-inducing howl can disorient Krev and his allies, providing tactical advantages in combat.

Aftermath and Rewards

Upon defeating Krev, players discover the unfortunate fate of Skjor, who ventured alone into the stronghold and was slain. Aela vows revenge, adding depth to her character and the storyline. Players then speak with Aela to conclude the quest. The reward for completing "The Silver Hand" is the permanent ability to transform into a werewolf, accessed through the 'Beast Form' power in the Magic menu, providing enhanced strength and new abilities in the game.

This quest not only advances the player's status within the Companions but also delves deeper into the lore of lycanthropy in Skyrim, setting the stage for further adventures and challenges in the life of a werewolf.

Blood's Honor - The Ritual

The Quest Begins

Kodlak Whitemane, the venerable leader of the Companions, has long sought a cure for his lycanthropy. His research leads him to the Glenmoril Witches, believed to hold the key to reversing the curse. Players are tasked with venturing into the dark depths of the Glenmoril Coven, located near Bilegulch Mine in Falkreath Hold, to obtain a witch's head, a crucial component for the ritual.

Preparing for the Encounter

Before embarking, players should enhance their defenses against fire and magic, as the witches are formidable foes wielding explosive spells and sharp talons. It's advisable to bring a follower to absorb damage, allowing players to close in on the witches and engage them in melee combat, where their magical prowess is less effective.

The Witch Hunt

Upon entering the cave, players will encounter the witches in their individual chambers, making it possible to tackle them one at a time. The goal is to decapitate one witch and retrieve her head. However, players may choose to eliminate all witches present to secure additional heads for future quests, although each head adds weight to their inventory.

Strategic Considerations

Engaging the witches directly can be perilous due to their powerful magic attacks. Players should use the environment to their advantage, avoiding open areas where they are vulnerable to spells. Quick, decisive strikes are essential to prevent the witches from healing themselves.

Returning to Jorrvaskr

With the witch's head in possession, players must return to Jorrvaskr. However, they are met with tragic news upon their return: the Silver Hand has attacked during their absence, resulting in casualties among the Companions. This twist adds urgency and gravity to the quest, as players now seek vengeance alongside their brethren.

This section of the quest not only advances the storyline but also deepens the player's integration into the Companions' lore, setting the stage for the dramatic events that follow.

Transforming into a Werewolf

Initiating the Transformation

To initiate the transformation into a werewolf, players must first access the Beast Form power from the Magic menu under the Powers tab. This power allows for a transformation once per day and can be marked as a favorite for quick access. Players should ensure they are in a safe location, as the transformation process leaves them momentarily vulnerable to attacks.

Experiencing the First Transformation

During the first transformation, which occurs as part of the Companions quest "The Silver Hand," the Dragonborn undergoes a violent change into a werewolf within The Underforge of Whiterun. There are two exits from The Underforge; one leads back into the city, and the other to the eastern environs. After prowling around in beast form, the transformation can be ended by the player by "feeding" on a corpse or simply waiting. The screen then blacks out, and the Dragonborn reverts to human form, unclothed, and is subsequently questioned by Aela the Huntress.

Utilizing Beast Form

Once in Beast Form, the Dragonborn acquires enhanced strength and speed, allowing for powerful melee attacks with claws and the ability to run on all fours. This form lasts for 2.5 minutes of real time, but players can extend this duration. By approaching a corpse and activating it as if looting, players can feed, which restores 50 points of Health and adds an additional 30 seconds to the transformation duration.

Limitations and Reuse of Beast Form

Beast Form can only be used once per in-game day. To transform more frequently, players can undertake the Daedric quest "Ill Met by Moonlight." Completing this quest and sparing the life of the quest giver allows the player to use the Ring of Hircine, which provides the ability to transform multiple times per day without the usual restrictions. However, each transformation requires re-equipping and re-applying the Ring of Hircine's power after reverting to human form.

Additional Tips for Effective Transformation

1. Preparation: Before transforming, ensure no immediate threats are around as the transformation process is slow.
2. Strategic Feeding: Use feeding strategically to prolong the werewolf form during combat or exploration.
3. Re-equip Ritual: After each transformation, remember to re-equip the Ring of Hircine to enable further transformations within the same day.

By understanding these steps and the mechanics of Beast Form, players can effectively utilize their new powers as a werewolf in Skyrim, enhancing both combat effectiveness and gameplay experience.

Werewolf Abilities and Perks

Overview of Werewolf Perk Tree

The Dawnguard DLC introduces a unique perk tree for werewolves, enhancing their abilities through a progression system based on feeding. Unlike traditional skill trees, where points are allocated to unlock perks, werewolf perks are acquired by consuming the hearts of fallen enemies. This system reflects the primal nature of lycanthropy, emphasizing the werewolf's need to hunt and feed.

Detailed Perk Descriptions

Bestial Strength

• Description: Increases the damage dealt in werewolf form.
• Levels:
  1. 25% more damage
  2. 50% more damage
  3. 75% more damage
  4. 100% more damage

Totems of Hircine

• Totem of Ice Brothers: Summons an ice wolf during combat.
• Totem of the Predator: Enhances the range of the Werewolf Totem of the Hunt, showing whether targets are in combat, searching, or unaware.
• Totem of Terror: The Werewolf Howl of Terror affects higher-level creatures.
• Totem of the Moon: Summons an ally werewolf.

Additional Perks

• Animal Vigor: Grants 100 extra points to health and stamina in beast form.
• Gorging: Doubles the health restoration from feeding.
• Savage Feeding: Allows feeding on almost all dead creatures, although it provides less time extension than feeding on humans.

Interaction with Other Skills and Abilities

Werewolves in Skyrim are considered to be in their own unique class, with specific interactions with the game's other systems:

• Racial Abilities: These do not affect the werewolf form as it is considered a separate race.
• Armor Spells: Spells like Dragonhide can be cast before transformation and remain effective, but cannot be recast in beast form.
• One-Handed Tree: Claws are not treated as one-handed weapons; thus, they do not benefit from the corresponding skill tree.
• Alteration and Other Magic: Certain magical perks still affect werewolves, such as the Atronach perk for magic absorption.

Strategic Use of Werewolf Abilities

1. Pre-Transformation Preparation: Cast beneficial spells like Berserker Rage or armor spells before transforming, as they will continue to affect the werewolf.
2. Feeding Strategy: Feed strategically to prolong the duration of the beast form during combat, which also aids in unlocking more perks.
3. Utilizing Totems: Activate different Totems of Hircine based on combat needs, whether it's summoning allies or enhancing sensory abilities to detect enemies.

Impact on Gameplay

Becoming a werewolf in Skyrim significantly alters gameplay, providing powerful physical attacks and new strategic elements through the perk system. Players must balance the beast's strength with its limitations, such as the inability to use equipment or heal naturally without feeding. The werewolf form is a potent tool in combat but requires careful management to maximize its potential.

Strategies for Using Werewolf Form

The Hit and Run Strategy

Utilizing the "Hit and Run" approach capitalizes on the werewolf's inherent speed and agility. This method involves a cycle of striking and sprinting, allowing players to deal damage while minimizing their exposure to enemy attacks. Key to this strategy is the use of the Howl of Terror, which disorients enemies up to level 25, enabling the player to swiftly move in for the kill before the foes can regroup.

• Shout Utilized: Howl of Terror
• Strengths: Fast-paced and damage-efficient
• Weaknesses: Less effective against higher-level enemies

The Sheer Force Strategy

For those who prefer overwhelming power, the "Sheer Force" strategy emphasizes brute strength and the ability to stagger opponents. By employing the Howl of Brotherhood, players can summon additional wolves to the fray, increasing the force of each attack. This tactic is particularly effective for bowling over enemies, creating chaos and disarray within their ranks.

• Shout Utilized: Howl of Brotherhood
• Strengths: High offensive power with significant impact
• Weaknesses: Vulnerability to ranged attacks and limited defensive capabilities
• Note: The summoned wolves from Howl of Brotherhood gain strength from advancements in the Perk Tree.

The Precise Strike Strategy

Adopting a more calculated approach, the "Precise Strike" strategy focuses on tactical positioning and targeted assaults. This method is best employed in scenarios where the player faces mixed enemy types, such as rooms with both archers and melee fighters. By eliminating strategic threats first, such as taking down a warrior with stealth before openly charging at the archers, players can control the flow of battle more effectively.

• Shout Utilized: Howl of the Hunt
• Strengths: Provides a defensive advantage by allowing players to anticipate enemy movements
• Weaknesses: Slight reduction in offensive power
• Note: Utilizing Howl of the Hunt may alert enemies to the player's presence, requiring careful timing and positioning.

By mastering these strategies, players can maximize their effectiveness in werewolf form, adapting their approach to the challenges presented by different enemy configurations and scenarios in Skyrim. Each strategy offers unique advantages and can be tailored to suit individual playstyles and combat situations.

Curing and Reverting Lycanthropy

For players in Skyrim who wish to reverse their lycanthropy, several methods are available, each with its own set of requirements and procedures. Understanding these methods allows players to make informed decisions about their character's path, especially when considering the permanent implications of such a change.

Method 1: The Glenmoril Witches and Ysgramor's Tomb

One of the most narrative-driven ways to cure lycanthropy involves the Glenmoril Witches. Players must first acquire a Glenmoril Witch Head, which is obtainable during the Companions questline. Here’s how to use this method:

1. Acquire a Witch's Head: During the quest "Blood's Honor," players are tasked with defeating one of the Glenmoril Witches and taking their head.
2. Go to Ysgramor's Tomb: With the witch's head in possession, travel to Ysgramor's Tomb.
3. Perform the Ritual: At the tomb, use the Flame of the Harbinger to burn the witch's head and confront the spirit of the wolf.
4. Defeat the Wolf Spirit: Successfully defeating this spirit effectively cures the player of lycanthropy.

Method 2: Using Console Commands

For players on the PC version of Skyrim, console commands offer a quick fix to curing lycanthropy:

• Open the console by pressing the tilde (~) key.
• Type player.removespell 00092C48 to remove lycanthropy.
• Alternatively, changing the character's race or sex through commands like showracemenu or changesex also removes lycanthropy.

Method 3: Becoming a Vampire Lord

Joining the Volkihar vampires and becoming a Vampire Lord will also cure lycanthropy. This method is available with the Dawnguard DLC:

1. Meet with Lord Harkon: After receiving an invitation to the castle, speak with Lord Harkon who offers the gift of vampirism.
2. Accept the Gift: Choosing to become a Vampire Lord will remove the Beast Form power and replace it with Vampire Lord abilities.

Considerations Before Curing Lycanthropy

Curing lycanthropy is a permanent decision in Skyrim. Once cured, players cannot regain the Beast Form power through normal means. Here are a few considerations:

• Weigh the Benefits: Consider the benefits of enhanced strength and speed as a werewolf against the abilities offered by other paths, such as vampirism.
• Quest Requirements: Some quests may require the player to be a werewolf. Ensure all desired quests are completed before curing lycanthropy.
• Multiple Cures: If playing without mods, remember that the witches do not respawn, making the number of available cures finite unless using console commands to add more witch heads.

By following these methods, players can strategically decide when or if they wish to revert their lycanthropy, allowing for a tailored gameplay experience in the world of Skyrim.

Conclusion

Embarking on the lycanthropic journey in Skyrim offers players not only a transformative gameplay experience but also immerses them in the deep lore and rich traditions of the Elder Scrolls series. Throughout this guide, we've navigated the steps to becoming a werewolf, the intricacies of utilizing the beast form to its fullest potential, and the methods available for those seeking to cure this primal affliction. This exploration into Skyrim's world of lycanthropy underlines the complexity and allure of walking the path of the beast, providing players with both the strategies to master this power and the insights to consider its ramifications on their quest.

As adventurers look to the moonlit skies of Skyrim, they are reminded of the dual nature of power, offering both formidable strengths and unique challenges. The broader implications of embracing or curing lycanthropy extend beyond mere gameplay mechanics, affecting character development, alignments within the game's universe, and interactions with Skyrim's many inhabitants. Whether players choose to revel in their beastly prowess or seek redemption from their feral curse, the journey of a Skyrim werewolf is fraught with thrilling encounters and pivotal decisions that echo through the ages of Tamriel's storied history.

FAQs

1. What are the benefits of becoming a werewolf in Skyrim?
Becoming a werewolf in Skyrim offers several advantages, including a 100% resistance to diseases. Additionally, for those interested in roleplaying, it aligns with themes such as devotion to the hunt, allegiance to the Daedric Prince Hircine, and exploring the Dragonborn's primal nature.

2. What is the simplest method to turn into a werewolf in Skyrim?
The easiest way to become a werewolf in Skyrim is by advancing through the Companions' faction questline until you reach the quest named "The Silver Hand." During this quest, you will have the opportunity to undergo a ritual where you drink the blood of another werewolf, thereby transforming yourself into one.

3. Is it possible to become a werewolf without being a member of the Companions?
Yes, you can become a werewolf without formally joining the Companions. This involves feeding on specific members of the Companions such as Skjor, Aela, Vilkas, Farkas, or Kodlak while they are asleep. It's important to note that other members of the Companions are not werewolves, so attempting to contract Lycanthropy from them will not work.

4. Can I transform into a Vampire Lord after I have become a werewolf in Skyrim?
Yes, it is possible to become a Vampire Lord even after becoming a werewolf. The process involves drinking from a blood pool while simultaneously undergoing the transformation into a Vampire Lord. If performed correctly, you will briefly become a Werewolf and then rapidly transition into a Vampire Lord.