Can You Marry a Companion in Skyrim? A Comprehensive Guide
Absolutely! The frosty plains and dragon-infested peaks of Skyrim aren’t just a backdrop for epic quests; they’re also a land of potential romance. Many of your trusty companions are, in fact, eligible for marriage. This guide will delve into the specifics of marrying a companion in Skyrim, exploring the possibilities, requirements, and the perks (and quirks) that come with tying the knot in the Nord homeland.
Who Can You Marry?
The good news is that a fair number of followers you encounter throughout your adventures are available as marriage partners. The key is to identify characters who have a positive disposition towards you and can be recruited as a follower. Keep in mind that not every follower is marriageable.
Key Marriageable Companions
Here are some notable examples:
- Aela the Huntress: A fierce member of the Companions, Aela offers a strong, independent spouse with a werewolf twist.
- Lydia: Your first housecarl and arguably the most iconic follower, Lydia is a loyal and reliable option.
- Mjoll the Lioness: A fearless warrior with unwavering morals, Mjoll is always ready to fight for justice (and you).
- Brelyna Maryon: A budding mage from the College of Winterhold, Brelyna brings a touch of magical flair to your married life.
- Karliah: The cunning Nightingale operative.
The Marriage Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
So, you’ve found your special someone among the ranks of your adventuring party. Now what? Here’s how to seal the deal:
- Acquire the Amulet of Mara: This is the most crucial step. You’ll need to obtain an Amulet of Mara. You can purchase one from Maramal in Riften’s Temple of Mara. If you have trouble finding him he is usually at the Bee and Barb. The amulet costs 200 gold.
- Equip the Amulet: Once you have the amulet, equip it. This signals to eligible NPCs that you’re looking for a spouse.
- Speak to Your Chosen Companion: With the Amulet of Mara equipped, talk to the companion you wish to marry. If they’re interested, they’ll remark on the amulet and inquire about your intentions.
- Attend the Wedding: Accept their proposal, and Maramal will arrange the wedding ceremony at the Temple of Mara in Riften. You need to be there the next day or there will be a penalty and you will have to set it up again.
- Enjoy Married Life: After the ceremony, you’re officially married! You can choose where to live. The spouse will open a shop and give you the “Lovers Comfort” bonus when sleeping near them.
Benefits of Marrying a Companion
Marriage in Skyrim isn’t just for roleplaying purposes. There are tangible benefits:
- Spousal Benefits: Your spouse will cook you one meal a day, and give you the “Lovers Comfort” bonus when sleeping near them. This bonus gives you +15% more experience earned.
- Shared Home: You and your spouse can live in any house you own, or they may offer to live in their current home.
- Shopkeeping: Your spouse will open a shop, providing a source of income. They will give you 100 gold that they earned each day.
- Continued Companionship: Even after marriage, many companions can still join you on your adventures.
What to Consider Before Saying “I Do”
While marriage in Skyrim offers several advantages, there are a few things to consider:
- Personality: Think carefully about the personalities of potential spouses. You’ll be spending a lot of time with them.
- Combat Style: If you plan to continue adventuring with your spouse, consider their combat skills and how they complement your own.
- Home Location: Where do you want to live? Your spouse might have preferences, or you might want to choose a house that suits both of you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I marry any NPC in Skyrim?
No, only specific NPCs are flagged as marriage candidates. These are typically followers or characters with whom you’ve completed a quest line.
2. How do I know if an NPC is marriageable?
Equip the Amulet of Mara and speak to them. If they are a marriage candidate, a dialogue option will appear indicating their interest.
3. Can I marry someone of the same sex?
Yes, Skyrim supports same-sex marriage.
4. Can I divorce my spouse in Skyrim?
Unfortunately, there is no in-game divorce mechanic. The only way to end a marriage is by… well, let’s just say it’s not a happy ending.
5. What happens if my spouse dies?
If your spouse dies, they are permanently gone. You cannot remarry in the base game.
6. Can I have children in Skyrim?
The base game does not allow you to have biological children. However, with the Hearthfire DLC, you can adopt children.
7. Can I marry a Jarl?
No, Jarls are not eligible for marriage in Skyrim.
8. Does marriage affect my character’s skills or abilities?
No, marriage does not directly impact your character’s skills or abilities. However, the Lover’s Comfort bonus can indirectly boost your skill progression.
9. Can I marry a vampire?
Yes, you can marry Serana with the use of mods.
10. Can I marry a Khajiit or Argonian?
Yes, there are marriageable Khajiit and Argonian NPCs in Skyrim.
11. How many times can I get married in Skyrim?
Only once, per playthrough, unless you use mods to circumvent this restriction.
12. Can my spouse be a follower after marriage?
Yes, many marriageable NPCs can continue to be your follower after the wedding.
13. Where can I find the Amulet of Mara?
You can purchase the Amulet of Mara from Maramal in the Temple of Mara in Riften.
14. Does marriage impact questlines?
In most cases, no. However, it’s worth noting that some quests may have unique dialogue options or interactions depending on your marital status.
15. Are there any mods that enhance the marriage system in Skyrim?
Yes, there are numerous mods that expand the marriage system, adding features like divorce, remarriage, more marriageable NPCs, and improved spouse interactions. Learning through games such as Skyrim can offer unique benefits, and organizations like the Games Learning Society are dedicated to exploring the educational potential of gaming. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org for more information.
Marriage in Skyrim offers a fun and engaging way to deepen your connection to the world and its characters. Whether you’re seeking a fierce warrior, a loyal companion, or a skilled mage, there’s a spouse out there for every Dragonborn. Happy hunting, and may your marriage be filled with adventure and prosperity!