A Skyrim player recently shared a funny clip showing the exact moment they fell prey to an unexpected trap. While Skyrim isn’t generally a scary game, threats sometimes appear when players least expect them. This short but humorous video provides an excellent reminder for anyone who’s forgotten about that.
Bethesda Softworks released The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim on November 11, 2011, and it really doesn’t need much of an introduction. The first-person open-world action RPG had a massive impact on the world of gaming and helped propel Bethesda to the forefront of AAA game publishing and development. After over a decade and multiple re-releases later, Skyrim continues to be massively popular with a large and highly dedicated fanbase.
Reddit user and Skyrim fan RocketBabyDoii uploaded a short clip from her current Skyrim playthrough. As her character explores one of Skyrim’s many caves, eagle-eyed viewers may notice the pink Soul Gem hovering a few inches above a small stone pillar. However, RocketBabyDoii did not, proceeding down the steps as she scanned the walls for treasure and threats. Just as her character glances away, the Soul Gem trap activates, shooting her avatar with a bolt of ice. Viewers can watch as she swings her weapon through the air in momentary panic before realizing the source of the attack.
Many fellow users in the Skyrim subreddit were able to sympathize with RocketBabyDoii’s humorous plight. The top comment describes Skyrim’s unshielded Soul Gem traps as “one of the most terrifying things I’ve ever encountered in the entire game.” The commenter said that while they can handle Skyrim’s Dragons or hordes of undead Draugr, they draw the line at fireballs launched from inanimate objects.
Other players shared their similar dislike for the small, pink deathtraps. The magic crystals can be pretty devastating for even relatively high-level players, occasionally resulting in a one-hit kill. Skyrim players also complained of the traps’ randomness and how they can never tell whether they’ve set off an inconsequential ice spell or a devastating chain-lightning attack. One Reddit user even pointed out how similar wards are among the most dangerous spells in Dungeons and Dragons due to the inability to see them coming.
Skyrim players can quickly disarm Soul Gem traps by shooting them will a spell or arrow. However, that requires players are actually able to see and target the Soul Gem in question. A shiny, pink, floating crystal might seem like it would stand out. However, they can be pretty hard to spot when they’re small, far away, and in front of a visually cluttered background.
The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim - Anniversary Edition is out now for PC, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.