Living Large in Skyrim: How Many People Can Your House REALLY Hold?

So, you’ve braved the dragons, shouted down mountains, and become the Dragonborn. Now it’s time to settle down, right? You’ve purchased (or built) a home in Skyrim, and you’re ready to fill it with companions. But just how many people can realistically bunk with you in your humble (or not-so-humble) abode?

The direct answer: You can have a spouse, up to two adopted children, a housecarl, a steward, a bard, and a carriage driver. This assumes you own a Hearthfire home with all necessary additions. This number can be higher if you have regular followers visit your house. Let’s delve into the specifics and address the burning questions you likely have about Skyrim’s domestic dynamics!

Understanding Your Skyrim Household

Before you start inviting everyone over for a housewarming party, let’s break down each potential resident and their role in your Skyrim home. This article explores the intricacies of Skyrim’s housing system and how to maximize your domestic bliss.

The Core Crew

• Spouse: Your lawfully wedded partner. They provide a daily income and can cook you a meal once a day that gives you a temporary buff. Remember, divorce isn’t an option without mods!
• Children (Adopted): If you’ve installed the Hearthfire DLC, you can adopt up to two children. They bring a sense of warmth to your home and will occasionally ask for things, adding to the role-playing experience.
• Housecarl: Assigned to you upon becoming Thane of a city. They are loyal protectors and will defend your home from threats. They are permanently assigned to your primary residence as you are Thane of that city.
• Steward: Manages your Hearthfire home, purchasing building materials, furnishing rooms, and hiring other staff.
• Bard: Provides musical entertainment, adding ambiance to your home.
• Carriage Driver: Offers fast travel to major cities from your Hearthfire home.

Understanding the Limits of Followers

Followers are different from residents. Followers are temporary companions who will leave your service when you dismiss them. Unlike your spouse, children, housecarl, and steward, they do not permanently reside at your home. While they may visit, you cannot assign them a bed or give them chores.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

These FAQs will provide further clarity on who can stay in your Skyrim house and the associated rules:

1. Do followers stay at my house in Skyrim?

No, followers do not permanently stay at your house. When dismissed, they return to their original location, such as a tavern or their own home. Only your spouse and children will remain after you leave.

2. How many stewards can I have in Skyrim?

You can have one steward per Hearthfire home. Since you can own three Hearthfire homes (Lakeview Manor, Windstad Manor, and Heljarchen Hall), you can potentially have three stewards simultaneously.

3. What is the biggest property I can own in Skyrim?

In the base game, the biggest house you can purchase is Proudspire Manor in Solitude. However, the Hearthfire homes, particularly when fully expanded, can become significantly larger.

4. Can I own all houses in Skyrim?

Yes, you can own all purchasable houses and build all three Hearthfire homesteads. Each offers unique benefits and customization options.

5. Can I have more than two kids in Skyrim?

Without mods, you are limited to adopting two children in Skyrim.

6. Which house is the best in Skyrim?

This is subjective, but many players consider Lakeview Manor the best due to its scenic location and proximity to crafting resources. However, Proudspire Manor is also a popular choice for its central location in Solitude and ample storage.

7. Can Lydia become a steward?

Yes, Lydia can become a steward. You can make her a steward for one of your Hearthfire homes, allowing her to manage your property.

8. Can my wife be my steward in Skyrim?

Not in the base game. You’ll need a mod, such as MHIYH (My Home Is Your Home), to assign your spouse as a steward. This mod also allows you to assign multiple followers to a house.

9. Can I get a new steward if one dies in Skyrim?

Yes, if your steward dies (through unfortunate circumstances), you can hire a replacement. Simply return to the location where you initially hired them and look for a suitable candidate.

10. Can my house get raided in Skyrim?

Yes, your house is very likely to be raided in Skyrim if there is any hostile wildlife or bandits nearby. Make sure to have sufficient defense in order to protect your home!

11. Can you lose your follower in Skyrim?

Yes, it’s easy to lose a follower in Skyrim. They might get stuck on terrain, disappear due to glitches, or simply be forgotten if you tell them to wait somewhere and then leave.

12. Can I get a pet in Skyrim?

Yes, you can acquire a pet in Skyrim. Often, your children will ask to adopt a stray dog or other animal that you encounter.

13. How do I become Thane so I can have a Housecarl?

To become Thane, you need to complete quests for the Jarl and assist the citizens of the hold. Once you’ve gained their favor and purchased a house in the city, the Jarl will likely bestow the title of Thane upon you, granting you a Housecarl.

14. Where can I learn more about gaming and learning?

For more insights into the intersection of gaming and education, explore resources like the Games Learning Society. Visit their website at GamesLearningSociety.org to discover research, articles, and discussions on the transformative power of games in learning environments.

15. What happens if my spouse dies in Skyrim?

Sadly, death is permanent in Skyrim. If your spouse dies (and they aren’t marked as essential), they are gone for good. You can remarry, but the loss can be devastating.

Conclusion: Creating Your Dream Home in Skyrim

Ultimately, the number of people who can “stay” at your house in Skyrim depends on your definition. While only a limited number of individuals become permanent residents (spouse, children, housecarl, steward, bard, carriage driver), you can always invite followers over for a visit. By understanding the mechanics of the housing system and utilizing mods where necessary, you can create a truly unique and thriving home in the world of Skyrim. So, go forth, Dragonborn, and build the home of your dreams!