Can Girls Marry Each Other in Skyrim? A Comprehensive Guide to Same-Sex Marriage
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
Yes, absolutely! In the vast and immersive world of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, love knows no bounds. Regardless of your character’s gender, you can marry any eligible non-player character (NPC) who is also marriageable. This means that, if you’re playing as a female character, you can freely marry another female character, and vice versa. Skyrim embraces inclusivity, allowing players to explore romantic relationships without gender restrictions. So, if you’ve set your heart on a female companion, rest assured, you can walk down the aisle together in the land of the Nords.
Understanding Marriage in Skyrim
How Does it Work?
The marriage system in Skyrim is quite simple, though it has some prerequisites. To begin the process, you must wear an Amulet of Mara, which you can purchase from Maramal in Riften. This amulet signals your interest in finding a spouse to the NPCs of Skyrim. After equipping the amulet, engage in conversations with characters who you might wish to marry. You need to complete a quest or two for them, depending on the NPC. This builds your relationship, after which a dialogue option will appear to propose marriage.
Once you’ve earned their affection, the option to say “Interested in me, are you?” will trigger the final proposal. If accepted, you’ll be instructed to return to the Temple of Mara to get married.
The Ceremony
The wedding ceremony takes place at the Temple of Mara in Riften, officiated by Maramal. It’s a straightforward event, where you’ll pledge your vows to your loved one. After the ceremony, your new spouse will join your household, either moving into your current house or inviting you to live in theirs.
Benefits of Marriage
Marriage in Skyrim isn’t just about romance; there are practical benefits too. Your spouse will cook a meal for you every day, providing a small buff. They will also run a small shop from your home, generating a modest income. Moreover, some spouses are eligible to be companions, joining you on your adventures.
Top Female Marriage Options in Skyrim
While every spouse has their own charm, there are a few female characters that stand out as popular marriage candidates. Here are some of the best:
Aela The Huntress
Aela is a fierce Werewolf and member of the Companions in Whiterun. Her adventurous spirit and battle prowess make her a popular choice for those who desire a strong and loyal spouse. She is also one of the most highly regarded wives in the game, known for her confidence and leadership abilities. You can find her at Jorrvaskr in Whiterun.
Lydia
Lydia is the housecarl assigned to you when you become Thane of Whiterun. She is a loyal and steadfast companion, always ready to defend you. She will be by your side through thick and thin, making her a great choice for those seeking a dependable partner. She can be found in Dragonsreach.
Mjoll The Lioness
This righteous warrior can be found in Riften. Mjoll is noble and kind, with a strong sense of justice. She is a powerful ally in combat and brings a unique perspective to any partnership, making her a valuable addition to your household and adventuring party.
Jenassa
Jenassa is a skilled and deadly Dark Elf mercenary located at The Drunken Huntsman in Whiterun. If you’re seeking an adventurous spouse, she will travel the lands with you without a complaint. She is a dependable and lethal companion in combat.
Muiri
Muiri is a Breton alchemist working at The Hag’s Cure in Markarth. While not as fierce as some other options, she is kind and caring and will look out for your well being.
Same-Sex Marriage and Character Choice
The beauty of Skyrim is its flexibility. Your character’s gender and race do not restrict your marriage options. A female Orc can marry a female Dark Elf, a female Breton can marry a female Redguard; any combination is possible. The game celebrates diversity, and no NPC is excluded from your potential romantic pursuits based on their gender or race.
Limitations
While the marriage system in Skyrim is inclusive, it is still very basic in comparison to real-world relationships. There are no complex dialogues or scenes depicting a deeper romance. Spousal interaction is limited to the practical benefits of cooking and shopkeeping.
No Children by Natural Means
One of the major limitations is the inability to have biological children within the game. The Dragonborn will never have children with their spouse. You can, however, adopt children from Riften if you have the Hearthfire DLC, provided you have a home with extra beds. However, adopted children are always human, though mods do allow you to adopt kids from various races.
No Divorce
There is also no option for a formal divorce in the game. If you made an error in your selection, you’re pretty much stuck. However, there are some options to reset, or start over, in finding a new spouse. Be sure to be certain who you wish to settle down with.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can you marry a female as a female in Skyrim?
Yes, absolutely! Skyrim allows same-sex marriages with no restrictions based on gender. Any eligible NPC is available regardless of your character’s gender.
2. What are the best female marriage candidates in Skyrim?
Popular choices include Aela The Huntress, Lydia, Mjoll The Lioness, Jenassa, and Muiri, among others, each with unique skills and personalities.
3. How do I get married in Skyrim?
You need to wear an Amulet of Mara, complete a quest for your desired spouse, and then propose to them. The ceremony takes place at the Temple of Mara in Riften.
4. Can you have children with your spouse in Skyrim?
No, the base game does not allow for biological children. You can adopt children if you own the Hearthfire DLC.
5. Can I marry Karliah in Skyrim?
Yes, Karliah can be a spouse and a follower. She is compatible with the Hearthfire DLC, although it is not required.
6. Can you marry Vex in Skyrim?
No, Vex is not a marriage option in Skyrim.
7. Is there romance in Skyrim beyond marriage?
There isn’t much romance beyond the marriage system. Skyrim’s focus is on action and adventure.
8. Can your wife leave you in Skyrim?
No, your wife won’t leave you in Skyrim. However, there are options to break the bond in order to marry someone else.
9. Can I get pregnant in Skyrim?
No, your character cannot become pregnant. Children can only be acquired through adoption via the Hearthfire DLC.
10. Who is the most popular spouse in Skyrim?
Aela The Huntress is often considered one of the most popular spouses, due to her strength, combat abilities, and overall personality.
11. Is Ysolda a good wife in Skyrim?
Yes, Ysolda is considered a good wife. She’s known for being nice and running a shop from your home, bringing in a little extra gold each day.
12. Who are some NPCs you cannot marry in Skyrim?
Some non-marriageable NPCs include Brynjolf, Elisif The Fair, Balagog gro-Nolob, Astrid, Teldryn Sero, and Jarl Balgruuf The Elder.
13. Can you marry Astrid?
No, Astrid is not a marriage option in Skyrim, even with console commands or mods, she lacks the required dialogue and voice files.
14. Can you turn your wife into a vampire in Skyrim?
Yes, if you are a vampire and have fed on your wife while she is sleeping, you can turn her into a vampire as well.
15. What happens if you don’t go through with the wedding in Skyrim?
If you refuse to say “I do” the wedding is called off, you’re kicked out of the Temple of Mara, and your spouse to be will no longer want anything to do with you.
Conclusion
In the diverse and open world of Skyrim, same-sex marriage is a natural and accepted part of the experience. The ability to marry any eligible character, regardless of their gender, allows players to create a truly unique and personal adventure. While the mechanics of marriage may be straightforward, the relationships you forge and the stories you create make the experience a memorable part of your journey as the Dragonborn. So, embark on your quest, find your true love, and enjoy the adventure together in Skyrim!