The phenomenal fifth installment of The Elder Scrolls franchise, Skyrim, has amassed an immeasurable following. Since its release in 2011, Skyrim has remained a prominent figure of the RPG genre. However, its time in the spotlight has garnered many false impressions or ideas of the game.
It is an unfortunate occurrence, but an expected one considering Skyrim's massive popularity, which in concurrence with The Elder Scrolls' history has inspired many common misconceptions. While these misunderstandings are ultimately harmless, they can cloud the true nature of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim.
10 It Is The Best/Worst Elder Scrolls Game
A common theme of recent Bethesda games is their divisiveness among players, especially The Elder Scrolls fanbase. While Skyrim is undoubtedly the most popular Elder Scrolls to date it lacks certain elements of its predecessors. Longtime fans frequently bash Skyrim for its simplicity, while newcomers praise its appeal. Despite each side's arguments, there is no definitive ranking for Skyrim.
Every Elder Scrolls game is vastly different from the rest. These distinct features separate each game as its own unique addition to a larger universe. Despite this, fans condemn Skyrim for being different rather than appreciating it. It lacks certain elements, yes, but it excels in its purpose of introducing new fans.
9 A Character's Race Does Not Matter
The Elder Scrolls franchise allows players to choose from a variety of distinct races. This is the first and most important choice that a player will make, as race determines a variety of aspects. Everything from stats to height is determined by race, at least in previous Elder Scrolls. Skyrim, however, diminishes the overall effect of one's race, giving players the impression that it is irrelevant.
The reason why race is less influential may be due to Skyrim's strive for versatility. Players will not be limited by their race, allowing the opportunity for diverse characters. However, race still has considerable effects on a playthrough. It determines a character's stats, resistances, abilities, powers, and most importantly, how the world interacts with them.
8 The Leveling System Is Ridiculous
Previous Elder Scrolls games include far more complex systems for leveling up. While the system is at times is confusing, it allows greater customization of one's character. Conversely, Skyrim's leveling is much simpler and less meticulous than its predecessors. This is not necessarily a bad quality, yet many denounce it.
Skyrim's leveling system seems absurd, but it is actually quite efficient. While players can put a point to any skill, they cannot progress far without practicing it. Moreover, it ensures that players understand exactly what they should focus on. It is basic, yet it continues providing players with the rewarding freedom of choice.
7 Your Character Must Be The Strongest
Skyrim provides the incredible opportunity to play as the legendary Last Dragonborn of Nirn. With the soul of a dragon and the power of the Thu'um, players hold immense strength. However, as with most RPGs, players find the need to make their characters even stronger. It is an admirable pursuit, but it should not come at the cost of creativity.
The Elder Scrolls franchise has always placed imagination above effectiveness, especially in Skyrim. Access to shouts grants players exceptional powers that can be utilized in any build. Why should players limit themselves to a sneaky archer or daedric knight? The opportunities are nearly endless.
6 Fast Travel Is A Must
Skyrim is a vast and wondrous region to explore. While its size provides players with numerous areas to discover, it also results in long and treacherous journeys. To counteract these prolonged treks, there is a fast travel system. Players can go to any known location instantaneously as intended, but the system is often abused.
Players use fast travel extensively, which not only limits their ability to explore, but their immersion as well. Exploring Skyrim solely on foot — or horseback — allows players to discover new locations and encounter random events. In addition, if a player needs a quick means of travel, they can realistically hire a carriage. Fast travel is not a necessity, but an alternative that should be used lightly.
5 Choices Do Not Matter
A common criticism of Skyrim is that it does not grant the player freedom of choice. Its predecessors Morrowind and Oblivion are far different regarding RPG elements. Both games ensure that every minute choice matters, earning them the status of a true RPG. Conversely, Skyrim does not place much weight on decisions, giving some the idea that they are irrelevant.
While many choices do not have a lasting impact, there are moments where players must make critical decisions. As the Last Dragonborn, players have a great deal of influence on the world. They can dictate the war's outcome, determine the future of factions, and even promote or sever ties with the dragons. These decisions are of great importance, seeing that they shape Skyrim's future.
4 The Civil War Is Hardly A War
Skyrim is not only enduring the World Eater's return, but a grueling Civil War as well. Each side fights for their cause with unrelenting fury and without mercy, making it a brutal conflict. However, players find that the war is uneventful even with their involvement. This causes players to believe that the war is not as severe as the people of Skyrim make it out to be.
Though the game diminishes the effect of the Civil War, but it is among the most gruesome conflicts. Bethesda originally intended the war to be more inclusive, with players taking part in defending and invading holds. While these elements were cut, they display the importance and severity of Skyrim's Civil War in The Elder Scrolls universe.
3 The Game's Dragons Are Actually Wyverns
The main antagonists of Skyrim are Alduin and his dragon brethren. These legendary creatures possess immense power, rivaled only by the Last Dragonborn. While these monstrous beings are dragons by name, their appearance seemingly goes against this. Many players claim that Skyrim's dragons are wyverns, since they do not possess four legs.
It is common for wyverns and true dragons to differ by their size and number of legs (dragons with four, and wyverns with two). However, there is no definite distinction between the two creatures. In fact, there are many notable dragons that are more wyvern-like in appearance, such as LOTR's Smaug.
2 Alduin Is Inherently Evil
The main plot of Skyrim is the Last Dragonborn's quest to vanquish the World Eater Alduin. Throughout the game, the people of Skyrim refer to Alduin as an evil being acting out of hatred. There is truth to this; yet, an important aspect regarding Alduin's purpose is often left out.
During the Merethic Era, Alduin fell victim to his own lust for power and domination. However, following his return, Alduin no longer wishes to rule over mortals but instead fulfill his purpose. He marks the end of the world in a natural cycle known as the Kalpa. While his intention appears malicious, Alduin is simply an inevitability that many have come to terms with.
1 The World Eater Is Weak
Being a significant part of the Kalpa grants Alduin immense power and otherworldly abilities. Despite this, each encounter with the World Eater is surprisingly dull, earning him the title of the worst Elder Scrolls villain. However, these claims should not belittle Alduin, as he is among the most powerful beings in The Elder Scrolls.
The World Eater's weakness in Skyrim is attributed to many things, mainly his arrogance. Time and time again, Alduin makes detrimental errors that further his demise. The World Eater's siege on Helgen, fight with Paarthurnax, and retreat to Sovngarde are by far his greatest mistakes. Had the World Eater realized his own hubris, he would not have fallen before the Last Dragonborn and the three Nordic heroes.