Can an Argonian Become a Vampire in Skyrim? Unraveling the Scaled Secrets
Yes, absolutely! In the world of Skyrim, an Argonian can indeed become a vampire. While their natural disease resistance makes it slightly more challenging than for some other races, it is by no means impossible. This article dives deep into the specifics of Argonian vampirism, exploring the hows, whys, and what-ifs that surround this intriguing phenomenon within the Elder Scrolls universe.
Understanding Argonian Resistance and Vampirism
Argonians, the reptilian inhabitants of Black Marsh, possess a remarkable ability to resist diseases. This racial trait stems from their unique physiology and connection to the Hist, sentient trees that influence Argonian life. This resistance makes them less susceptible to contracting diseases like Sanguinare Vampiris, the disease that leads to vampirism.
However, “less susceptible” doesn’t mean “immune.” While casual encounters with vampires might not turn an Argonian into a creature of the night as easily as, say, a Nord, there are methods and circumstances that can override this natural defense.
The Dark Brotherhood Route: A Guaranteed Transformation
The most reliable way for an Argonian to become a vampire in Skyrim is through the Dark Brotherhood questline. Specifically, reaching the point where Vicente Valtieri offers you his “gift.” By accepting this offer, you are essentially bypassing the usual method of contracting Sanguinare Vampiris through combat and directly receiving the vampiric curse. This is a surefire method, regardless of the Argonian’s inherent resistance.
Overcoming Resistance in the Wild
Even without the Dark Brotherhood, an Argonian can contract vampirism through repeated exposure to vampires. Persistently battling vampires increases the chances of Sanguinare Vampiris taking hold, eventually overwhelming their natural defenses. Careful management of potions and vigilant curing attempts are essential if you don’t want to become a vampire through this method.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Argonian Vampirism
Like other races, Argonian vampires gain access to unique abilities and face specific drawbacks.
Advantages:
- Increased Strength and Speed: Vampires gain enhanced physical capabilities, making them formidable in combat.
- Vampiric Powers: Access to spells and abilities such as Vampiric Drain, Invisibility, and Raise Dead.
- Disease and Poison Resistance: Vampires are immune to disease and poison, a boon that complements the Argonian’s starting resistance.
- Night Vision: Improved vision in dark environments.
Disadvantages:
- Weakness to Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight gradually drains health, stamina, and magicka, requiring strategic planning for daytime activities.
- Fire Weakness: Vampires are more vulnerable to fire damage.
- Negative NPC Reactions: Depending on your stage of vampirism, NPCs may react negatively towards you, impacting interactions and quest availability.
Argonian Aesthetics and Vampirism
The transformation into a vampire also alters an Argonian’s appearance. Their eyes become more intense, their skin paler, and their fangs more pronounced. Some players find the vampiric look enhances the Argonian’s already unique aesthetic, while others prefer to maintain their original appearance by feeding regularly.
Argonian Vampires: A Roleplaying Perspective
The combination of Argonian heritage and vampiric powers opens up intriguing roleplaying possibilities. A stealthy assassin, relying on both Argonian natural sneaking skills and vampire powers of invisibility, can create a formidable and terrifying character. Alternatively, an Argonian vampire struggling against their nature, seeking a cure while navigating the moral complexities of their existence, presents a compelling narrative.
FAQs: Unveiling More About Argonian Vampires
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about Argonian vampires in Skyrim:
1. Are Argonians immune to vampirism?
No, they are not immune, but their natural disease resistance makes it harder to contract Sanguinare Vampiris through normal encounters.
2. How can an Argonian become a vampire easily?
The easiest method is accepting Vicente Valtieri’s offer during the Dark Brotherhood questline.
3. Do Argonian vampires have unique racial bonuses?
Argonian vampires retain their Histskin ability (rapid health regeneration) and disease resistance, which can be beneficial.
4. Does being a vampire affect Argonian roleplaying?
Yes! It adds a layer of complexity to your character, influencing their interactions and moral choices.
5. Are there any Argonian vampire lords?
As a player character, you can become a Vampire Lord through the Dawnguard DLC, regardless of your race. Whether any exist in lore outside the player, is unknown.
6. How does sunlight affect Argonian vampires?
Sunlight drains an Argonian vampire’s health, stamina, and magicka, just like any other race.
7. Can I cure vampirism as an Argonian?
Yes, the cure for vampirism is the same for all races. You need to complete the “Rising at Dawn” quest.
8. What are the best skills for an Argonian vampire?
Sneak, One-Handed, Destruction, and Illusion are excellent choices, complementing both their racial traits and vampiric powers.
9. Do Argonians look different as vampires?
Yes, their eyes change, their skin becomes paler, and their fangs become more prominent.
10. Can an Argonian be a werewolf and a vampire?
No. You cannot be both a werewolf and a vampire simultaneously in Skyrim. Becoming one will cure you of the other.
11. Does Argonian disease resistance reduce vampire stage progression?
No, the stage progression of vampirism is based on how often you feed, not your initial resistance.
12. Can Argonian vampires swim without penalty?
While vampires typically suffer in water, Argonians’ natural ability to breathe underwater mitigates some of the negative effects. However, they will still experience health, stamina, and magicka drain in sunlight if they remain submerged.
13. Is there any unique dialogue for Argonian vampires?
While there isn’t a massive amount of race-specific dialogue, some NPCs may comment on your reptilian features combined with your vampiric nature.
14. How does being an Argonian vampire affect relationships in Skyrim?
Similar to other races, your appearance and actions influence how NPCs react to you. High vampire stages can lead to fear and hostility.
15. Does the Hist influence Argonian vampires?
This is a fascinating lore question without a definitive answer in the game. Whether the Hist still exerts its influence over an Argonian vampire, and how, is open to interpretation and roleplaying.
The Allure of the Scaled Vampire
The union of Argonian heritage and vampiric powers creates a unique and compelling character within the world of Skyrim. Whether you’re drawn to the challenge of overcoming their inherent resistance, the intriguing roleplaying opportunities, or simply the aesthetics of a reptilian vampire, the path is open to you. Embrace the night, and explore the secrets that await! Delve deeper into the understanding of gaming and its societal impacts, and explore resources on gaming literacy at GamesLearningSociety.org.
Argonians are one of the most diverse races in Skyrim, so don’t be afraid to mix up your gameplay! Remember to check out Games Learning Society to learn more about gaming.