Joining the Imperial Legion in Skyrim: A Comprehensive Guide
So, you’ve decided to throw your lot in with the Empire in Skyrim, eh? A wise choice, for those who value order, stability, and a cohesive Tamriel. Joining the Imperial Legion is a straightforward process, though it requires a journey and a demonstration of your combat prowess. The first step is to head to Solitude, the capital city of Skyrim, located in the northwest of the province. Once there, seek out General Tullius within Castle Dour. He will then point you towards Legate Rikke, his second-in-command. Speak with her and she will task you with clearing out Fort Hraggstad of bandits. Complete this quest, aptly named “Joining the Legion“, and you’ll be officially inducted into the Imperial Legion. Now, let’s delve deeper into the nuances of joining the Empire and address some frequently asked questions.
FAQs About Joining the Imperial Legion
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify the process and implications of joining the Imperial Legion in Skyrim:
1. What are the benefits of joining the Imperial Legion?
Joining the Imperial Legion offers several advantages. You’ll receive Imperial armor and weapons, providing a practical boost to your combat effectiveness early on. You’ll progress through a structured questline with clear objectives and rewards, including leveled gear and increasing rank. Furthermore, you’ll play a crucial role in shaping the political landscape of Skyrim, helping to suppress the Stormcloak rebellion and maintain the Empire’s influence. Beyond the tangible rewards, there’s the satisfaction of fighting for a cause you believe in, whether it’s upholding the law or unifying Skyrim under a single banner. Games, such as Skyrim, offer many opportunities to explore leadership and strategy, which is also a key focus of the GamesLearningSociety.org through their research on games in education.
2. Can I join the Imperial Legion as any race?
Absolutely! The Imperial Legion welcomes recruits of all races. Unlike the Stormcloaks, who are predominantly Nords with a clear preference for their own kind, the Imperial Legion is a diverse and inclusive organization. Whether you’re a Nord, Imperial, Breton, Redguard, Orc, Elf, or even a Khajiit or Argonian, you’ll be judged based on your skills and dedication, not your heritage.
3. What happens if I complete quests for the Stormcloaks before joining the Imperial Legion?
While the game allows you to start quests for both sides early on, progressing too far down the Stormcloak questline can lock you out of joining the Imperials. Specifically, completing the quest “The Jagged Crown” for the Stormcloaks will prevent you from joining the Imperial Legion. To avoid this, delay choosing a side in the Civil War until you’re certain which faction you want to support.
4. Is it better to join the Imperials or the Stormcloaks?
This is entirely a matter of personal preference and roleplaying. The Imperials represent order, law, and a unified Tamriel, drawing support from those who value stability and tradition. They’re often seen as more cosmopolitan and tolerant of different races and religions (despite the White-Gold Concordat). The Stormcloaks, on the other hand, champion Skyrim’s independence and the right to worship Talos, appealing to Nords who feel oppressed by the Empire. Consider your character’s background, beliefs, and motivations when making your decision.
5. What are the consequences of choosing the Imperial side in the Civil War?
Choosing the Imperial side leads to the suppression of the Stormcloak rebellion. Ultimately, it also leads to Ulfric Stormcloak’s death and Imperial control over all holds in Skyrim. This brings a sense of order and stability to the province but also means that those who support Skyrim’s independence will remain resentful.
6. Can I still join the Imperial Legion after completing the main questline?
Yes, you can join the Imperial Legion even after completing the main questline. The Civil War questline is independent of the Dragonborn storyline.
7. How long does it take to complete the Imperial Legion questline?
The length of the Imperial Legion questline varies depending on your playstyle and difficulty setting. It typically takes around 5-10 hours to complete, but this can be longer if you prefer to explore and engage in side activities.
8. What happens if I accidentally attack an Imperial soldier?
Accidentally attacking an Imperial soldier will typically result in a bounty being placed on your head. If you’re a member of the Imperial Legion, you may be able to talk your way out of it or pay a reduced fine. However, repeatedly attacking Imperial soldiers will lead to expulsion from the Legion and make you an enemy of the Empire.
9. Can I become General Tullius’s second-in-command after Legate Rikke?
No, you cannot replace Legate Rikke as General Tullius’s second-in-command. While you’ll rise through the ranks of the Imperial Legion, becoming a Legate yourself, you won’t surpass Rikke in the chain of command.
10. Are there any unique weapons or armor obtainable only through the Imperial Legion questline?
While you’ll receive Imperial armor and weapons throughout the questline, there aren’t any truly unique items obtainable only through the Imperial Legion. However, the enhanced versions of Imperial armor that you receive at higher ranks are valuable and can be quite useful. Additionally, completing the questline provides substantial gold rewards and unlocks access to various Imperial-controlled locations.
11. Does joining the Imperial Legion affect my relationships with other factions?
Joining the Imperial Legion primarily impacts your relationship with the Stormcloaks. Naturally, supporting the Empire will make you an enemy of the Stormcloak faction. However, it generally doesn’t affect your standing with other factions like the Companions, the College of Winterhold, or the Thieves Guild, unless your actions directly contradict their interests.
12. Can I switch sides after joining the Imperial Legion?
No, once you commit to a side in the Civil War, you cannot switch allegiance mid-questline. You’re locked into the path you’ve chosen, and the only way to experience the other side’s story is to start a new game or reload a previous save.
13. Does the Civil War in Skyrim have a significant impact on the game world?
Yes, the Civil War does have a noticeable impact on the game world. Winning the war for either side results in changes to the Jarls who govern various holds, reflecting the new political landscape. Imperial-controlled holds will have Imperial-aligned Jarls, while Stormcloak-controlled holds will be ruled by Stormcloak sympathizers. Additionally, the presence of Imperial or Stormcloak soldiers will be more prominent in holds under their control.
14. If I am a Nord, should I join the Stormcloaks instead of the Imperials?
While being a Nord certainly aligns you thematically with the Stormcloaks, it doesn’t automatically mean you should join them. Many Nords remain loyal to the Empire, believing in its ideals of order and unity. Consider your character’s individual beliefs and motivations. Does your Nord character prioritize Skyrim’s independence and the worship of Talos above all else? Or do they value the stability and security that the Empire provides? The choice is yours.
15. Does joining the Imperial Legion make me a “bad guy”?
Whether joining the Imperial Legion makes you a “bad guy” is a matter of perspective. Neither the Imperials nor the Stormcloaks are inherently “good” or “evil.” Both sides have their flaws and their justifications for their actions. The Imperials are seen by some as oppressors, enforcing the unpopular White-Gold Concordat and suppressing religious freedom. However, they also represent a stable and unified Tamriel, preventing further bloodshed and chaos. Ultimately, the moral implications of your choice are subjective and depend on your own interpretation of the events in Skyrim.
Hopefully, this guide has provided you with a comprehensive understanding of how to join the Imperial Legion in Skyrim and answered any questions you may have had. Now, go forth and serve the Empire with honor and courage! You can also explore how games enrich learning and skill development through platforms like the Games Learning Society.