Can You Switch to the Imperials in Skyrim?
Yes, you can switch to the Imperials in Skyrim by retrieving the Jagged Crown and instead of returning it to Ulfric, you can hand it over to the Empire, specifically to General Tullius, thus betraying the Stormcloaks and joining the Imperial Legion. This decision can be made only after you have started the Civil War quest line and before completing the Jagged Crown quest, after which your decision is final.
Understanding the Context
To make an informed decision about switching sides, it’s essential to understand the context of the Civil War in Skyrim. The Stormcloaks, led by Ulfric Stormcloak, are fighting for Skyrim’s independence from the Tamrielic Empire, while the Imperials aim to maintain the Empire’s control over Skyrim.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can You Change Sides in the Civil War?
You can change sides in the Civil War by delivering the Jagged Crown to the opposing faction’s leader before completing the respective quest.
2. How Do You Join the Imperials in Skyrim?
To join the Imperials, travel to Solitude and speak with General Tullius, who will direct you to Legate Rikke for the task of clearing a fort of bandits in the quest “Joining the Legion“.
3. Is It Better to Choose Stormcloaks or Imperials?
The choice between Stormcloaks and Imperials depends on your character’s backstory and beliefs; if your character is originally from outside Skyrim, it might make more sense to join the Imperials, while if you believe in Skyrim’s independence, the Stormcloaks might be the better choice.
4. Can You Change Your Faction in Skyrim After Joining?
You can change your faction before completing the Jagged Crown quest, but after delivering the crown, your decision is final, and you cannot switch sides.
5. What Is the Most Powerful Faction in Skyrim?
The ranking of factions by strength varies, but according to some analyses, the Greybeards are considered the most powerful, followed by the Imperial Legion and then the Stormcloaks.
6. Can I Switch from Stormcloak to Imperial?
Yes, you can switch from Stormcloak to Imperial by delivering the Jagged Crown to General Tullius instead of Ulfric Stormcloak.
7. Who Is More Evil, Stormcloaks or Imperials?
Both the Stormcloaks and Imperials have compelling arguments, and the choice between them is not simply good vs. evil, as both sides have their reasons for fighting.
8. What Happens If You Choose the Imperials?
Choosing the Imperials results in Ulfric Stormcloak’s death and Brunwulf Free-Winter becoming the new Jarl of Windhelm, leading to a more Imperial-friendly government.
9. Is Ulfric a Bad Guy?
Ulfric Stormcloak can be seen as a master manipulator driven by a desire for power, rather than a hero of the Nords.
10. Can You Marry an Imperial in Skyrim?
Yes, you can marry anyone of any gender or race in Skyrim, including Imperials.
11. What’s the Best Race to Be in Skyrim?
The best race in Skyrim depends on personal preference and playstyle, but according to some rankings, the High Elf is considered one of the best, followed by the Orc and Nord.
12. Can I Betray the Stormcloaks?
Yes, you can betray the Stormcloaks by delivering the Jagged Crown to the Imperials instead of Ulfric Stormcloak.
13. Can You End the War Peacefully in Skyrim?
The Civil War in Skyrim can only be resolved through the defeat of one side, as the “make peace” quest only offers a temporary truce to address the Dragon threat.
14. Can You Lose the Civil War in Skyrim?
In the base game, the outcome of the Civil War is determined by the player’s choice, with no option to “lose” in the classical sense, but mods can introduce this possibility.
15. Can You Still Join the Imperials After Killing the Emperor?
Yes, killing the Emperor does not prevent you from joining the Imperial Legion in Skyrim, as the game’s storyline allows for this choice without significant consequences.