Can a Cured Vampire Become a Vampire Again? A Skyrim Deep Dive
Yes, a cured vampire in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim can, indeed, become a vampire again. The game allows players to contract vampirism multiple times, even after being cured. Whether you’re a Dragonborn experimenting with the darker side of Skyrim or simply unfortunate enough to repeatedly cross paths with bloodthirsty creatures, the opportunity to embrace (and then reject) vampirism is always available. This mechanic offers considerable flexibility in character development and gameplay style, letting you explore the benefits and drawbacks of being a creature of the night as many times as you desire.
Understanding Vampirism and Its Cure in Skyrim
Before delving into the specifics of becoming a vampire again, it’s crucial to understand the initial process of contracting and curing vampirism in Skyrim.
Contracting Vampirism
Vampirism in Skyrim typically begins with Sanguinare Vampiris, a disease contracted from vampires, most commonly through their attacks. If left untreated for three in-game days, the Dragonborn will transform into a vampire. The initial stages of vampirism come with both benefits (like increased sneaking and illusion skills) and drawbacks (such as vulnerability to sunlight).
The Cure
The most common method to cure vampirism involves completing the quest “Rising at Dawn”. This quest requires you to speak with Falion in Morthal, who specializes in eradicating the condition. The cure involves providing Falion with a filled Black Soul Gem. Once the ritual is complete, the Dragonborn is cured of vampirism.
The Recurring Cycle: Becoming a Vampire Again
Now, the crucial point: being cured doesn’t grant immunity. You can contract Sanguinare Vampiris again through further encounters with vampires. If left untreated, the disease will once again lead to vampirism. This makes exploring dangerous locations, especially vampire lairs, a gamble for those who have previously been cured.
Vampire Lord Exception
A unique path to vampirism lies with Serana, a powerful vampire and a key character in the Dawnguard DLC. Serana can grant the Dragonborn Vampire Lord status, a more potent form of vampirism with unique abilities and skill trees. Even after being cured by Falion, Serana can bestow the Vampire Lord gift upon you again (unless she cures herself). This allows for repeated transitions between mortal and Vampire Lord, offering significant gameplay flexibility.
Strategic Implications
The ability to repeatedly become and be cured of vampirism has strategic implications. You can tailor your gameplay to suit specific situations. For example, a stealth-focused mission might benefit from the increased sneak skill provided by vampirism, while a prolonged daytime adventure might necessitate a cure to avoid the detrimental effects of sunlight.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Vampirism and Its Cure
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about vampirism, its cure, and the ability to become a vampire again in Skyrim, including details about vampire lord status, Serana, and Falion’s role:
1. Can you become a vampire again after being cured of regular vampirism?
Yes, you can. Simply contract Sanguinare Vampiris again and allow it to progress to full vampirism.
2. Can you become a Vampire Lord again after being cured?
Yes, but only through Serana, as she can grant you the Vampire Lord power even after you’ve been cured.
3. Can Serana turn you into a Vampire Lord if she has cured herself?
No, Serana must be a vampire to turn you into a Vampire Lord.
4. Can you be cured of vampirism more than once?
Absolutely. There is no limit to how many times you can be cured of vampirism.
5. Can you still become a Vampire Lord if you cure Serana?
No, you won’t be able to become a Vampire Lord again through her if she is cured. She is the only character capable of bestowing the Vampire Lord ability after the initial quest line.
6. Can you marry Serana after curing her?
No, you cannot marry Serana through regular in-game actions. You would need to install a mod to allow this.
7. Can you become a Vampire Lord if you side with the Dawnguard?
Yes, you can become a Vampire Lord by accepting Serana’s offer during the “Bloodline” quest, even if you ultimately side with the Dawnguard.
8. Can Falion cure you more than once?
Yes, Falion can cure you of vampirism as many times as needed, provided you have a filled Black Soul Gem each time.
9. Why won’t Falion cure me?
Ensure you have a filled Black Soul Gem in your inventory and that you speak to him at the designated location (the summoning stones near Morthal). If the dialogue option doesn’t appear, try leaving Morthal and returning to reset the area.
10. What are the disadvantages of being a vampire in Skyrim?
The primary disadvantages are vulnerability to sunlight (which inhibits health, stamina, and magicka regeneration) and potential hostility from NPCs, especially in later stages of vampirism.
11. Should I be a vampire or a werewolf in Skyrim?
This depends on your playstyle. Vampires offer increased magical abilities and stealth, while werewolves provide brute strength and powerful transformations. You cannot be both simultaneously without mods.
12. Can I be a werewolf and a vampire in Skyrim?
Normally, no. If you are already a werewolf, you cannot become a vampire, and vice versa. However, mods can enable hybrid states.
13. What is the average lifespan of a vampire?
Vampires are effectively immortal, with lifespans spanning centuries or even millennia.
14. Can Falion cure Serana?
Yes, Falion can cure Serana, though many players choose not to, due to the benefits she provides as a Vampire Lord.
15. What happens if you tell on Falion?
Reporting Falion to the Jarl will result in a confrontation and threats, but no long-term consequences for the Dragonborn.
Exploring Gamification and Deeper Learning
Understanding the mechanics of vampirism in Skyrim, including the ability to repeatedly transform and be cured, contributes to a deeper understanding of the game’s systems. These mechanics exemplify how Games Learning Society principles can be integrated into game design. The freedom to experiment and repeatedly engage with the game world reinforces knowledge of the game’s internal rules and reinforces player agency. To learn more about the powerful connection between games and learning, visit GamesLearningSociety.org.