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How to Marry Serana in Skyrim: A Comprehensive Guide

The burning question on every Dragonborn’s mind: How do you marry Serana, the enigmatic and captivating vampire from the Dawnguard DLC in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim? The straightforward answer is this: in the base game, you cannot marry Serana. Bethesda Softworks did not include marriage dialogue or functionality for Serana in the original release or subsequent updates. However, all hope is not lost! To wed Serana, you’ll need to utilize the power of mods, specifically designed to enable this desired union. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this dream a reality.

Marrying Serana: The Modding Path

Choosing the Right Mod

Several mods exist that aim to make Serana marriageable. Some of the most popular and reliable options include:

Marriable Serana: This is a classic choice, often highly rated and widely used within the Skyrim modding community.
Serana Dialogue Add-On: Some mods focus on expanding her dialogue, including options related to marriage, without altering her core character.
Relationship Dialogue Overhaul (RDO): While not exclusively for Serana, RDO overhauls the dialogue system in Skyrim, adding hundreds of lines of voiced dialogue, including marriage options with numerous NPCs when combined with the appropriate “marriage enabler” mod for Serana.

When choosing a mod, consider the following:

Compatibility: Ensure the mod is compatible with your version of Skyrim (Special Edition, Anniversary Edition, or Legendary Edition) and other mods you have installed. Check the mod description and user comments for potential conflicts.
Features: Some mods simply enable marriage, while others add new dialogue, quests, and interactions with Serana. Choose a mod that aligns with your desired level of depth and immersion.
Stability: Read reviews and check the mod’s stability rating to avoid bugs and crashes.

Installing the Mod

The installation process varies depending on your platform (PC or Xbox) and your mod manager. The most common method for PC users is through a mod manager such as Nexus Mod Manager, Mod Organizer 2 (MO2), or Vortex. Here’s a general outline:

Download the Mod: Go to a reputable modding website like the Nexus Mods website and download your chosen mod.
Install the Mod Manager: If you don’t already have one, download and install a mod manager of your choice. These tools help manage your mods, resolve conflicts, and ensure proper installation.
Install the Mod: In your mod manager, locate the downloaded mod file and install it. The mod manager should automatically extract the files and install them into your Skyrim data folder.
Enable the Mod: Ensure the mod is enabled in your mod manager. You may need to activate it in the mod manager’s plugin list.
Run LOOT (Load Order Optimization Tool): LOOT is a tool that analyzes your load order (the order in which your mods are loaded) and suggests an optimal configuration to minimize conflicts and improve stability. Run LOOT after installing any new mods.
Start Skyrim: Launch Skyrim and verify that the mod is working correctly. You can usually check this by finding Serana and looking for new dialogue options or interactions.

The Marriage Process

Once the mod is installed and working, the process of marrying Serana usually involves the following steps:

Complete the Dawnguard Questline: Finish the Dawnguard main questline. This is often a requirement for the mod to function correctly.
Build Rapport with Serana: Engage in conversation with Serana, complete quests alongside her, and make choices that align with her values.
Wear the Amulet of Mara: Obtain an Amulet of Mara from Riften. You can purchase it from Maramal in the Temple of Mara.
Speak to Serana with the Amulet Equipped: With the Amulet of Mara equipped, initiate a conversation with Serana. The mod should add a new dialogue option that allows you to propose marriage.
Attend the Ceremony: If Serana accepts your proposal, you’ll need to attend a marriage ceremony at the Temple of Mara in Riften. Maramal will officiate the ceremony, and your new spouse, Serana, will be waiting for you.

Understanding the Limitations

While mods can make Serana marriageable, it’s essential to understand the limitations:

Voice Acting: Serana’s original voice actress did not record dialogue for marriage-related interactions. Mods often reuse existing dialogue or create new lines using voice synthesis, which may not sound as natural as her original voice.
Animation: Marriage-related animations, such as cuddling or sleeping together, may be limited or non-existent.
Mod Conflicts: Mods can sometimes conflict with each other, leading to bugs or crashes. It’s crucial to test your mod setup thoroughly and resolve any conflicts.

Enjoying Your Undead Union

Despite these limitations, marrying Serana through mods can be a rewarding and immersive experience. You’ll have a powerful and compelling companion by your side, and you can share your adventures together throughout Skyrim.

This information is for general knowledge only, and note that mods can alter gameplay. If interested in learning more about how these games connect to education, visit the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I marry Serana without mods?

No, in the base game of Skyrim, it is impossible to marry Serana without the use of mods. Bethesda did not include marriage dialogue or functionality for her.

2. What mods are recommended for marrying Serana?

Popular mods include “Marriable Serana,” “Serana Dialogue Add-On,” and “Relationship Dialogue Overhaul (RDO)” combined with a marriage enabler for Serana. Always check compatibility and read reviews before installing.

3. Do I need the Dawnguard DLC to marry Serana?

Yes, the Dawnguard DLC is essential, as Serana is a key character within that expansion. The marriage mods build upon the content introduced in the Dawnguard DLC.

4. How do I install mods on Skyrim?

On PC, use a mod manager like Nexus Mod Manager, Mod Organizer 2 (MO2), or Vortex. Download the mod, install it through the mod manager, enable it, and run LOOT to optimize your load order. On consoles, modding availability is more limited.

5. What is an Amulet of Mara and where do I find it?

The Amulet of Mara is an item that signifies your intention to marry in Skyrim. You can purchase it from Maramal in the Temple of Mara in Riften for 200 gold.

6. Will Serana’s voice acting change after marrying her?

Yes. Some mods reuse existing dialogue for marriage-related interactions, while others use voice synthesis. This synthesized speech may not sound as natural as her original voice acting.

7. Can I divorce Serana in Skyrim?

Sadly, there is no way to divorce in Skyrim without mods. Once you are married, you are married for life unless you resort to drastic measures (like killing your spouse), or, again, use specific mods to divorce.

8. Can Serana live in my house after marriage?

Yes, with mods that enable marriage, Serana can live in any of your owned houses after marriage.

9. Can I turn Serana into a human after marrying her?

Yes, if the mod allows for it, and you have completed the necessary quests to cure her vampirism.

10. What happens if I become a vampire after marrying Serana?

Your relationship with Serana should not be affected. She will remain your spouse, regardless of your transformation into a vampire.

11. Can I still use Serana as a follower after marrying her?

Yes, Serana will remain a follower after marriage, allowing you to continue your adventures together.

12. Does marrying Serana affect her questline?

No, marriage does not typically affect the main Dawnguard questline or her role within it.

13. Are there any known conflicts with Serana marriage mods?

Conflicts can arise with other mods that alter Serana’s dialogue or behavior. Always check compatibility and use LOOT to optimize your load order.

14. Can I marry Serana if I side with the Volkihar Clan?

Yes, you can still marry Serana with mods regardless of whether you side with the Dawnguard or the Volkihar Clan.

15. What if Serana rejects my proposal?

If Serana rejects your proposal, make sure you have built a good relationship with her by completing quests and making choices that align with her values. You may also need to increase your relationship status through console commands if the mod allows it.

How do I marry serana?