Are Stormcloaks or Imperials Better?
The choice between Stormcloaks and Imperials in the world of Skyrim is a matter of personal preference and playstyle, as both factions have their own unique benefits and drawbacks, with the Stormcloaks offering a sense of independence and Nord culture, while the Imperials provide a sense of stability and Empire loyalty. Ultimately, the decision to join the Stormcloaks or Imperials depends on the player’s individual values and goals, with no clear-cut answer as to which faction is better.
Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
- Who are the Stormcloaks and Imperials?: The Stormcloaks are a rebel group fighting for Skyrim‘s independence from the Empire, while the Imperials are the ruling authority trying to maintain control over the region.
- What happens if you choose Stormcloaks?: Siding with the Stormcloaks results in Vignar Grey-Mane becoming the new Jarl of Whiterun, Laila Law-Giver reclaiming her position as the Jarl of Riften, and Skald the Elder retaking his role as Jarl of Dawnstar.
- What happens if you side with the Imperials or Stormcloaks?: The outcome of the civil war changes, with the Stormcloaks gaining control of Skyrim if they win, and the Imperials maintaining control if they emerge victorious.
Faction Benefits
- What are the benefits of joining the Stormcloaks?: Joining the Stormcloaks allows you to become the Thane of Windhelm and own Hjerim, which is not possible if you side with the Imperials.
- What are the benefits of joining the Imperials?: The Imperial Legion has a more structured ranking system, and their armor and weapons are of higher quality compared to the Stormcloaks.
Character Alignment
- Is Ulfric a bad guy?: Ulfric Stormcloak is the main antagonist of the Civil War quest-line if you join the Imperial Legion, but he is not inherently bad, as his actions are motivated by a desire for Skyrim‘s independence.
- Are the Stormcloaks the bad guys?: No, the Stormcloaks are not the bad guys, as they are fighting for Nord customs and independence, while the true bad guys are the Thalmor and the Aldmeri Dominion.
Gameplay Consequences
- Does joining the Imperials affect anything?: Joining the Imperials changes the outcome of the civil war, with Ulfric being killed by either the Dragonborn or General Tullius.
- Can I still go to Solitude after joining the Stormcloaks?: Yes, you can still visit Solitude after joining the Stormcloaks, as Skyrim does not have a faction reputation system like the Fallout games.
Leadership and Loyalty
- Who becomes Jarl of Solitude if the Stormcloaks win?: If the Stormcloaks win, Jarl Elisif the Fair will be captured by Ulfric and coerced into supporting the Stormcloaks.
- Can I betray the Stormcloaks?: Yes, you can betray the Stormcloaks by retrieving the Jagged Crown and handing it over to the Empire instead of Ulfric.
Character Background
- Who betrayed Ulfric Stormcloak?: Hrolfdir betrayed Ulfric, handing him over to the Empire, which led to Ulfric‘s imprisonment and the eventual Civil War.
- Is Ulfric Stormcloak brainwashed?: Ulfric was brainwashed by Elenwen or otherwise influenced to believe that the Empire betrayed Skyrim.
Gameplay Choices
- Should I start Dawnguard or Dragonborn first?: It is recommended to complete the main quest first, then do Dawnguard, followed by Hearthfire, and finally Dragonborn.
- What is the best class in Skyrim?: The best class in Skyrim is subjective, but some popular builds include the Unarmed Khajiit, Crafter, Tanky Conjurer, and Illusion Assassin.