Does it Matter Who You Sacrifice in ESO? A Deep Dive into a Pivotal Choice
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The short answer is: yes, it matters, but only in the immediate sense. The primary difference lies in the unique reward you receive based on your choice. Sacrificing the Prophet (Varen Aquilarios) grants you the Emperor’s Blessing (his restoration staff), sacrificing Lyris Titanborn gives you the Great Axe of the Titanborn (her two-handed axe), and sacrificing Sai Sahan provides the Sword Saint’s Blade (his two-handed sword). Beyond the immediate reward, however, the choice has minimal long-term impact on the overall narrative or gameplay.
Understanding the Sacrifice and Its Consequences
The sacrifice scene is a pivotal moment in the Elder Scrolls Online (ESO) main storyline. It forces you to make a difficult decision, seemingly with lasting repercussions. However, the game mechanics mitigate the impact of this decision, ensuring that the story can progress regardless of who you choose to sacrifice.
The Rewards: A Closer Look
Let’s examine the rewards you receive based on your sacrifice choice:
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The Emperor’s Blessing (Varen’s Restoration Staff): A restoration staff that could be beneficial for healing-focused builds, especially at lower levels.
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Great Axe of the Titanborn (Lyris’ Two-Handed Axe): A two-handed axe that can bolster damage for stamina-based characters early on.
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Sword Saint’s Blade (Sai’s Two-Handed Sword): A two-handed sword that is suitable for damage dealing stamina characters.
The rewards are tailored to the character of the individual sacrificed. Consider your character build and playstyle when making this choice. However, remember that gear becomes readily available as you progress, making this reward somewhat less significant in the long run.
The Resurrected Companion
Regardless of whom you sacrifice, they will reappear later in the story. As the article snippet you provided mentions, their explanation for their return is often vague and relies on the handwave of “magic.” This is a narrative device to ensure all three characters remain available for future storylines and quests. So, while your choice does impact the weapon reward, it doesn’t permanently remove the character from the game.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Sacrifice
Here are 15 frequently asked questions that provide additional context and valuable information about the sacrifice decision in ESO:
1. What happens if I sacrifice Lyris Titanborn?
You receive her two-handed axe, the Great Axe of the Titanborn. She reappears later in the story, attributing her return to unexplained magic.
2. What happens if I touch the Light of Meridia in the Harborage?
Touching the Light of Meridia in the Harborage does not reset anything. It provides a starting point for beginning the next faction quest lines.
3. How do I start the “God of Schemes” quest in ESO?
To obtain the “God of Schemes” quest, you must first complete “The Final Assault.” “The Final Assault” requires completing “The Citadel Must Fall,” which begins in Coldharbour at the Endless Stair Wayshrine.
4. How do I start the “Final Assault” quest?
The Final Assault begins with talking to Gabrielle Benele and Hahnin. You then choose a companion (Cadwell, Darien Gautier, Skordo the Knife, or Tzik’nith) to accompany you, speak to King Laloriaran Dynar, close the reinforcement portal, and finally, talk to Vanus Galerion to enter the Labyrinth.
5. When should I start the main quest in ESO?
You can start the main quest as soon as you enter the game. Visit Vulkhel Guard (Auridon), Daggerfall (Glenumbra), or Davon’s Watch (Stonefalls). The Hooded Figure will approach you and initiate the questline.
6. How do I get the Powerful Assault set in ESO?
The Powerful Assault set is purchased from Tel Var merchants in the Imperial City using Tel Var stones.
7. How do you choose the sacrifice in ESO?
You talk to Varen, Lyris, and Sai, then stand on the yellow rune circle and wait for the ritual after choosing who you want to sacrifice.
8. How do I become a vampire in ESO?
You can become a vampire by being bitten by a Bloodfiend at night, being bitten by another player, or buying the vampire curse from the Crown Store. The in-game methods are preferable as they are free.
9. Should I touch Meridia’s Light during the quest?
Yes, touching Meridia’s light during the quest will transport you to your first veteran alliance zone, depending on your faction allegiance.
10. Why does Meridia sometimes drop me to my death?
This is often caused by carrying too much weight. Try dropping a few items before interacting with her.
11. What happens if I ignore Meridia’s Beacon?
You can ignore Meridia’s Beacon. She’ll remind you of its location if you return to her shrine later.
12. What is Cadwell’s Silver?
Cadwell’s Silver is a quest that allows you to experience the main storyline of another alliance.
13. Does ESO have a main storyline?
Yes, ESO has a main storyline full of twists, turns, and memorable characters. It’s a significant draw for solo players.
14. What race is Lyris Titanborn?
Lyris Titanborn is a Nord with giant ancestry, making her a half-giant.
15. What is the best race to be a vampire in ESO?
Dark Elf (Dunmer) is a good choice for vampires due to their increased fire resistance, which helps mitigate the extra damage vampires take from fire.
Beyond the Choice: Focusing on the Bigger Picture
While the immediate reward of the sacrifice might seem important, remember that ESO is a vast game with countless opportunities to acquire gear. The long-term impact of your choice is minimal. Focus on enjoying the story, exploring the world, and developing your character’s skills. Ultimately, the sacrifice is more of a narrative beat than a game-changing decision.
Exploring ESO’s Narrative Depth
The sacrifice scene highlights one of ESO’s strengths: its commitment to storytelling. While player choice might not always have radical long-term consequences, the game consistently presents players with moral dilemmas and engaging characters. This contributes to a richer and more immersive experience, drawing players deeper into the world of Tamriel. For those interested in studying the impact of gaming on learning and society, resources like the Games Learning Society (find more at GamesLearningSociety.org) offer valuable insights.
In conclusion, the sacrifice choice in ESO matters mainly for the immediate reward, the weapon you receive. Don’t overthink it too much; choose the weapon that best suits your playstyle at the moment, and remember that the character you sacrifice will reappear later in the story anyway. Enjoy the game and the many other choices it offers!