Does Dawnguard Interfere with the Main Quest in Skyrim? A Comprehensive Guide

The short answer is no, the Dawnguard DLC does not directly interfere with the main questline of Skyrim. While there is one minor overlap involving the acquisition of an Elder Scroll, the Dawnguard storyline operates independently, allowing you to enjoy both narratives without one impeding the other.

Dawnguard and the Main Quest: A Symbiotic, Not Parasitic, Relationship

Unlike some DLCs that can heavily integrate into the main story, Dawnguard remains largely self-contained. You are free to engage with it at any point after reaching level 10 (though higher levels are recommended for difficulty). The overlap is that you may need to acquire one of the Elder Scrolls for both the main quest and Dawnguard quest. The Dawnguard quest actually triggers a mission for you to acquire one Elder Scroll. This means you might obtain the Elder Scroll before the main quest sends you out to do the same. Think of it as getting a head start – a savvy adventurer prepared for anything!

The beauty of this design is that you have complete control over the pacing. Want to become a Vampire Lord before facing Alduin? Go for it! Prefer to vanquish the World-Eater before delving into the ancient conflict between vampires and vampire hunters? That’s perfectly viable, too. The choice is yours. Skyrim thrives on player agency, and Dawnguard respects that core principle.

Crafting Your Own Narrative: The Order of Play

Bethesda’s DLC releases (Dawnguard, Hearthfire, Dragonborn) suggest an intended order: Main Quest, Dawnguard, Hearthfire, then Dragonborn. This aligns with both the difficulty curve and the narrative weight of each expansion. However, Skyrim doesn’t force this upon you. You can tailor your playthrough to your liking. A common and effective strategy is to tackle the Main Quest initially, then weave in Dawnguard and Hearthfire before culminating in the more challenging Dragonborn DLC.

This approach offers a smoother progression, both in terms of character power and the gravitas of each storyline. Dragonborn, with its epic confrontation against Miraak, feels like a fitting conclusion to your Dragonborn’s journey.

Choosing Your Path: Dawnguard vs. Volkihar

A central choice in Dawnguard is whether to side with the Dawnguard, the order of vampire hunters, or the Volkihar Clan, a powerful group of ancient vampires. This decision profoundly impacts your gameplay experience, granting access to unique quests, abilities, and locations.

• Dawnguard: Offers access to enhanced dwarven crossbows, armored huskies, and a more traditionally “good” aligned narrative.
• Volkihar: Grants the ability to become a Vampire Lord, control the dark powers, and reside in Castle Volkihar.

Your choice depends on your character’s alignment and playstyle. Are you a noble warrior seeking to protect the innocent? The Dawnguard might be your calling. Or are you drawn to the allure of forbidden power, willing to embrace the darkness? The Volkihar Clan awaits.

Dawnguard’s Impact on Gameplay

Beyond the main quest interference, Dawnguard significantly enriches the overall Skyrim experience:

• New Locations: Explore new areas such as the Forgotten Vale and Castle Volkihar.
• New Enemies: Face formidable foes like Death Hounds, Gargoyles, and powerful vampires.
• New Weapons and Armor: Acquire powerful artifacts like Auriel’s Bow and the Dawnguard Rune Hammer.
• New Abilities: Unlock Vampire Lord and Werewolf skill trees, transforming your combat potential.
• Serana: The unforgettable follower Serana.

Dawnguard isn’t just an add-on; it’s a substantial expansion that adds depth and complexity to the world of Skyrim.

Related Works

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions players have about the Dawnguard DLC:

1. Can you do Dawnguard side quests after the main story?

Absolutely! The game continues after you defeat Alduin, allowing you to complete any remaining Dawnguard side quests, explore new locations, and further develop your character.

2. Should I complete Dawnguard or Dragonborn first?

Dragonborn is generally considered more challenging and intended for higher-level characters. Story-wise, either order works, but Dragonborn is often best saved for last.

3. At what level should you start Dawnguard?

Dawnguard officially triggers at level 10, but tackling it at level 30 or higher is recommended to handle the tougher enemies.

4. Can you still become a Vampire Lord if you side with Dawnguard?

Yes! Even if you initially side with the Dawnguard, Serana can grant you the Vampire Lord form later in the questline, before she seeks a cure.

5. Can you join the Dawnguard after killing Harkon?

Yes. After Harkon’s defeat, Isran (if you aren’t a vampire) or Garan Merethi (if you are a vampire) will approach you to join either the Dawnguard or integrate into Castle Volkihar, respectively.

6. Is it possible to join both Dawnguard and vampires?

You can initially interact with both factions, but eventually, you must choose a side. Accepting Harkon’s gift will lead to rejection from the Dawnguard.

7. Is there a downside to becoming a vampire in Skyrim?

Yes, vampirism has downsides, including weakness to sunlight and hostility from NPCs in later stages. The sunlight will prevent Health, Stamina and Magicka regeneration.

8. What if I refuse to become a vampire?

Refusing Harkon’s offer will banish you from Castle Volkihar, leading you back to Isran and the Dawnguard questline.

9. Can you get Auriel’s Bow as a Dawnguard member?

Yes, you can obtain Auriel’s Bow regardless of which side you choose in the Dawnguard questline. The Quest touching the sky, is a vital part of either the Dawnguard or Volkihar Questline.

10. Should I join Volkihar or Dawnguard?

The choice depends on your character’s playstyle and alignment. Dawnguard offers ranged weapons and a “good” narrative, while Volkihar grants Vampire Lord powers and a darker storyline.

11. Which questline is better in Dawnguard?

Many players consider “Touching The Sky,” the quest to retrieve Auriel’s Bow, to be one of the best in the Dawnguard DLC.

12. Can you fight Harkon without joining the Dawnguard?

The fight against Harkon is essentially the same regardless of your allegiance. Preparation is key, as he can be a challenging opponent.

13. Do you lose Serana if you side with the Dawnguard?

No, Serana remains a follower option regardless of your faction choice. She plays a crucial role in both the Dawnguard and Volkihar storylines.

14. Can you cure Serana after killing Harkon?

Yes, Serana can be cured of her vampirism by visiting Falion in Morthal after completing the Dawnguard DLC.

15. Can you join Dawnguard as a werewolf?

Yes, you can freely join the Dawnguard as a werewolf without any conflicts. You may prefer being a werewolf due to the lack of equipment slots.

Conclusion: Embrace the Freedom

The Dawnguard DLC is a rich and rewarding addition to Skyrim that respects your freedom as a player. It doesn’t interfere with the main quest, offering a compelling side story that can be enjoyed at your own pace and on your own terms. Whether you choose to become a vampire hunter, a Vampire Lord, or a champion of the Dragonborn, Skyrim empowers you to craft your own unique adventure. Now, go forth and conquer Tamriel, Dragonborn!