Can You Become a Werebear in Skyrim? The Truth Behind the Myth
The burning question on many a Dragonborn’s mind: Can you become a Werebear in Skyrim? The short, and somewhat disappointing, answer is no. Despite the tempting lore surrounding these powerful creatures in the Dragonborn DLC and the wider Elder Scrolls universe, vanilla Skyrim, even with all its expansions, does not offer the player the ability to transform into a Werebear. You’re stuck being a humble human, elf, or beast-race… unless you fancy a bit of lycanthropy of the wolfish variety, of course!
While you can’t become one, the presence of Werebears in the game, particularly in Solstheim, fuels the desire for playable Werebear transformation. They present a fascinating alternative to the classic Werewolf, with a unique aesthetic and interesting lore that leaves players craving more. So, while the dream of becoming a hulking bear-man may remain just that – a dream – let’s delve into everything you can do with Werebears in Skyrim, their abilities, weaknesses, and the lore that makes them so intriguing.
Understanding Werebears in Skyrim
Although you can’t transform into one, Werebears are integral to the experience of the Dragonborn DLC, adding a layer of danger and mystery to the wilds of Solstheim. Encounters with these creatures are frequent and often challenging, forcing players to adapt their strategies and utilize every tool at their disposal to survive.
Summoning a Werebear
While true transformation is off the table, there’s a consolation prize: the ability to summon a Werebear. This power is granted after completing the quest “Cleansing the Stones” and interacting with the Beast Stone. Once activated, the Beast Stone offers the player a unique ability. However, bear in mind that this is a daily power: after using it, you must return to the Beast Stone and reactivate it to use it again.
Facing Off Against Werebears
If you find yourself facing a Werebear, be prepared for a tough fight. They are powerful melee combatants with high health and damage output. Tactics and strategy are key. Ranged attacks, kiting, and utilizing followers are all essential. Knowing their weaknesses can also give you an edge.
Looting Werebears
When you defeat a Werebear, you are able to loot them. The loot you find might feel a little disturbing however. What can you loot from a Werebear in Skyrim? Werebears can be looted for honey, honeycomb and human flesh when they die.
Werebear Lore and Abilities
Even though they’re unplayable, understanding the lore behind Werebears enriches the overall Skyrim experience. The Elder Scrolls universe presents Werebears as complex creatures with their own motivations and place in the world.
Shapeshifting and Hybrid Forms
Werebears, unlike Werewolves, are often depicted as protectors of nature, guided by a desire to help travelers and the weak. Their ability to shapeshift into powerful bears, larger than their natural counterparts, or into a bipedal, bear-like hybrid form, makes them formidable opponents and fascinating creatures.
Werebear Weaknesses
Like Werewolves, Werebears have weaknesses. According to in-game lore, and certain interpretations of tabletop RPG rules, copper is a primary weakness to werebears. This weakness to copper has reportedly had a severe impact on their numbers. Although not directly implemented in Skyrim’s gameplay mechanics, this lore provides an interesting insight into the creature’s vulnerabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Werebears in Skyrim
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Werebears in Skyrim:
1. Are Werebears stronger than Werewolves in Skyrim?
In the game, Were-Bears and Werewolves are actually relatively equally matched. While there are nuances in their attack patterns and abilities, a skilled player can beat a Were-Bear as a Werewolf. So strength wise they are relatively equal.
2. Can I transform into a Werebear using mods?
Yes! The modding community is extremely active, and there are several mods available that allow you to transform into a Werebear, add new Werebear abilities, and expand on the existing Werebear lore. Be careful to choose mods that are compatible with your version of the game.
3. Do Werebears have any unique abilities in Skyrim?
Besides their immense strength and resilience, Werebears possess the ability to transform into large bears and, in some lore, a bipedal hybrid form. In Skyrim, they primarily rely on melee attacks, but their raw power makes them a force to be reckoned with.
4. Can I contract Lycanthropy from a Werebear?
No, in Skyrim, you cannot contract Lycanthropy from a Werebear. Lycanthropy, specifically the form that turns you into a Werewolf, is typically contracted through specific events related to the Companions questline.
5. What are the advantages of being a Werewolf in Skyrim?
Werewolves in Skyrim boast increased strength, speed, and stamina. They are immune to diseases and can regenerate health quickly while in beast form. They can also use powerful howls to frighten enemies or summon allies.
6. Are there any quests specifically about Werebears in Skyrim?
While there isn’t a major questline focused entirely on Werebears, they play a significant role in the Dragonborn DLC, particularly in quests involving the Beast Stone and the overall conflict in Solstheim. Encounters with Werebears are often tied to side quests and exploration.
7. How do I effectively fight Werebears in Skyrim?
Use ranged attacks, elemental magic (fire is particularly effective against flesh), and utilize followers to distract and flank them. Exploit their slower movement speed to your advantage. Although it is not directly implemented in Skyrim, try Stalhrim weapons, or weapons made of copper.
8. Can Werebears use weapons or armor?
No, Werebears in Skyrim do not use weapons or armor. They rely entirely on their natural claws, teeth, and brute strength. Their transformations typically prevent them from equipping anything.
9. What is the lore behind Werebears in the Elder Scrolls universe?
Werebears are often depicted as protectors of nature, benevolent creatures who choose to use their abilities to aid travelers and defend the wilderness. They are often seen as the antithesis of Werewolves, who are frequently portrayed as savage and uncontrolled.
10. How common are Werebears in Skyrim?
Werebears are relatively common in Solstheim, the island added by the Dragonborn DLC. They can be found roaming the wilderness, guarding specific locations, or encountered during quests.
11. Can you cure being a Werewolf in Skyrim?
Yes, you can cure your Lycanthropy. If you decide that the Werewolf transformation isn’t for you, it is possible to remove it.
12. Can a Khajiit or Argonian become a Werewolf?
Yes, any race, including Khajiit and Argonian, can become a Werewolf in Skyrim. Their racial abilities and appearances will be altered during the transformation, but they can still access the Werewolf form and its associated benefits.
13. Is there a Werebear faction or clan in Skyrim?
No, there is no established Werebear faction or clan within the vanilla game of Skyrim.
14. Are Werebears affected by Silver weapons?
No, the articles suggests that copper, not silver, is a weakness of Werebears.
15. How does the GamesLearningSociety.org relate to Skyrim or Werebear lore?
The Games Learning Society, accessible at GamesLearningSociety.org, focuses on exploring the educational potential of video games. While not directly related to Werebear lore, Skyrim itself offers a rich platform for learning about history, mythology, problem-solving, and decision-making, all elements that the Games Learning Society studies and promotes. These skills are vital to have to learn how to defeat a Werebear.