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Where Do I Get the Elven Sword? A Skyrim & Witcher 3 Deep Dive

The question of where to find an Elven Sword depends entirely on which game you’re playing. In Skyrim, they’re relatively common and can be found in various locations, while in The Witcher 3, a specific “Ancient Elven Sword” is a quest item with a unique acquisition method. This article will guide you through the specifics of obtaining Elven swords in both these popular role-playing games.

Skyrim: Finding Your Elven Blade

In Skyrim, the Elven Sword is an early-to-mid game weapon that’s better than Iron or Steel but outclassed by later-game materials like Glass, Ebony, and Dragonbone. Here’s where you can find them:

Locations in Whiterun

Dragonsreach: An Elven Sword can be found in an Expert level display case located in the Jarl’s Quarters. Be prepared to pick the lock or have a high enough skill level in lockpicking.
Jorrvaskr: While primarily housing the Companions, you can find an Elven Warhammer and a Dwarven Greatsword within Expert level display cases inside Jorrvaskr, specifically in the room with Kodlak Whitemane. This may involve some stealth or joining the Companions to gain easier access.

General Availability

Blacksmiths and General Goods Merchants: As you level up (around level 19), unenchanted Elven Greatswords will start appearing in the inventories of blacksmiths and general goods merchants throughout Skyrim. Enchanted versions become available around level 20. Keep checking their stock, as it rotates.
Random Loot: Elven Swords can also be found as random loot in chests, dungeons, and on defeated enemies. The higher your level, the more likely you are to encounter them.

Level Requirement

Keep in mind that the appearance of Elven Swords (and other Elven weapons) in random loot and merchant inventories is level-dependent. You’ll likely start seeing them more frequently around level 19 and above.

The Witcher 3: The Ancient Elven Sword

The “Ancient Elven Sword” in The Witcher 3 is entirely different. It’s a steel sword and a quest item specifically related to the Blood and Wine expansion.

Obtaining the Ancient Elven Sword

Extreme Cosplay Quest: This sword is exclusively obtained during the secondary quest Extreme Cosplay. The quest is centered around reenacting a ritual scene.
Quest Item: During the quest, the Ancient Elven Sword will appear in your quest items inventory tab. You can’t miss it.
Post-Quest: Once you complete the Extreme Cosplay quest, the Ancient Elven Sword becomes a regular sword in your inventory.

Is It Any Good?

The Ancient Elven Sword in The Witcher 3 is a standard steel sword. Its stats are decent for its level, but there are many other swords in the game that are more powerful. It’s more about the story and quest than its combat prowess.

FAQs: Elven Swords in Skyrim & The Witcher 3

Here are some frequently asked questions about Elven swords in both Skyrim and The Witcher 3:

What level do Elven weapons start appearing in Skyrim?

Unenchanted Elven Greatswords start appearing around level 19, and enchanted versions around level 20. Other Elven weapons follow a similar level progression.
Are Elven weapons good in Skyrim?

They are decent, falling into the mid-tier. They are better than Iron, Steel, Orcish, and Dwarven but weaker than Glass, Ebony, and Dragonbone.
Where can I find Refined Moonstone for improving Elven weapons in Skyrim?

Refined Moonstone can be mined from Moonstone Ore veins, purchased from blacksmiths and general goods merchants, or found as loot.
What perks do I need to improve Elven weapons in Skyrim?

You’ll need the Elven Smithing perk, which requires a Smithing skill of 30 and the Steel Smithing perk.
Is there a unique Elven sword in Skyrim with special properties?

No, there isn’t a specifically named or uniquely powered Elven sword in the base game or DLCs. There are enchanted versions, but the enchantment is random. Mods might add unique Elven swords.
Does Elven armor have any advantages over other types in Skyrim?

Elven armor is lightweight and offers a decent armor rating for its weight. It’s a good choice for characters focusing on stamina management and mobility.
What is the best Elven armor in Skyrim?

The Gilded Elven Armor offers the best armor rating of the Elven armor variants.
How does Smithing skill affect Elven weapons and armor in Skyrim?

A higher Smithing skill allows you to improve Elven weapons and armor to higher quality levels, increasing their damage and armor rating.
Can I craft Elven weapons and armor in Skyrim?

Yes, you can craft them at a forge if you have the Elven Smithing perk, the required materials (Iron Ingots, Refined Moonstone, Leather, and Quicksilver Ingots), and a Smithing skill of at least 30.
In The Witcher 3, can I keep the Ancient Elven Sword after the Extreme Cosplay quest?

Yes, the Ancient Elven Sword remains in your inventory as a regular sword after completing the quest.
Is the Ancient Elven Sword in The Witcher 3 a unique weapon?

The sword is unique to the Extreme Cosplay quest and not a particularly special weapon in terms of stats or enchantments. It is just part of the storyline.
Are there any Elven swords in The Witcher 3 that aren’t quest-related?

While there might be swords described as Elven in origin, there is not a particular sword named “Elven Sword” beyond the quest item.
Why do Elven swords sometimes glow blue in fantasy stories?

This trope, popularized by The Lord of the Rings, indicates the presence of Orcs or other evil creatures. It’s a magical property imbued by Elven smiths.
What’s the difference between an Elven Sword and an Elven Greatsword in Skyrim?

The Elven Sword is a one-handed weapon, while the Elven Greatsword is a two-handed weapon. This impacts damage output, speed, and whether you can use a shield.
How do video games like Skyrim and Witcher 3 impact players’ understanding of history and culture?

Video games can offer immersive experiences that spark interest in historical periods, myths, and cultures, allowing players to learn about different societies and artifacts while having fun. The Games Learning Society explores these intersections of learning and play. For more information, visit GamesLearningSociety.org.

Conclusion

Whether you’re roaming the wilds of Skyrim in search of a finely crafted Elven blade or engaging in ritual reenactments in The Witcher 3, understanding the availability and acquisition methods of these weapons will enhance your gaming experience. Happy adventuring!

Where do I get the Elven sword?