Is Dragonborn DLC Part of Skyrim Special Edition? The Definitive Answer

Yes, the Dragonborn DLC is indeed included as part of the Skyrim Special Edition. This enhanced version of the game bundles together the base Skyrim game with all three of its major DLC expansions: Dawnguard, Hearthfire, and, of course, Dragonborn. So, if you’re diving into Skyrim Special Edition, you’re already equipped to journey to Solstheim and face the mysteries that await.

Unveiling the Dragonborn DLC: What to Expect

The Dragonborn DLC is a thrilling addition to the Skyrim experience, offering a brand new land to explore, powerful enemies to conquer, and a compelling storyline centered around the First Dragonborn, Miraak. He seeks to control your mind and usurp your power. It adds hours of gameplay and diversifies the overall world of Skyrim.

Why Dragonborn DLC is a Must-Play

• A New Land: Journey to Solstheim, an island east of Skyrim filled with unique environments like ashlands, Nordic ruins, and native settlements.

• Intriguing Story: Unravel the mystery of Miraak, the First Dragonborn, and his sinister plot to dominate your will.

• New Powers and Abilities: Learn new Dragon Shouts, including the ability to tame dragons and ride them into battle.

• Challenging Enemies: Face formidable foes like Seekers, Lurkers, and the twisted creations of Miraak.

• Expanded Lore: Dive deeper into the history and mythology of the Dragonborn and their connection to the dragons.

Getting Started with the Dragonborn DLC

The Special Edition already has the DLC integrated. It’s not a separate download, so you won’t have to go digging around in menus or stores to download anything. If you’re having trouble getting the DLC to start in game, there are steps you can take to make sure that everything is working as it should.

Initiating the Questline

The Dragonborn questline typically begins after you complete the main quest “The Horn of Jurgen Windcaller”, which involves consulting with the Greybeards at High Hrothgar. After this quest is finished, you can trigger the DLC by traveling to any major hold city in Skyrim. Here’s how:

1. Travel to a Major City: Head to a city like Whiterun, Riften, or Solitude.
2. Cultist Encounter: Keep an eye out for two cultists who will approach you and inquire whether you are the Dragonborn.
3. Prepare for a Fight: The cultists will become hostile after the conversation. Defeat them and loot their bodies.
4. Read the Note: One of the cultists will carry a note that kicks off the Dragonborn questline, directing you to Solstheim.

Setting Sail for Solstheim

Once the quest is active, you can set sail for Solstheim.

1. Head to Windhelm: Travel to the docks in Windhelm.
2. Find the Northern Maiden: Locate the ship called the Northern Maiden and speak with its captain, Gjalund Salt-Sage.
3. Request Passage: Ask Gjalund to take you to Solstheim. You might need to persuade, bribe, or intimidate him, depending on your skills.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Dragonborn DLC

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the Dragonborn DLC for Skyrim Special Edition, designed to provide you with a more comprehensive understanding of the topic.

FAQ 1: Is Dragonborn DLC free with Skyrim Special Edition?

No, the Dragonborn DLC is not a separate free download. It is included within the Skyrim Special Edition package itself. Purchasing the Special Edition gives you access to the DLC.

FAQ 2: Do I need to install Dragonborn separately if I have Skyrim Special Edition?

No. If you own Skyrim Special Edition, the Dragonborn DLC is already integrated into the game. There’s no need for a separate installation.

FAQ 3: What level should I be before starting the Dragonborn DLC?

It’s generally recommended to be at least level 15, but level 20 or higher is preferable. The enemies in Solstheim can be quite challenging at lower levels.

FAQ 4: Can I start the Dragonborn DLC before completing the main Skyrim questline?

Yes, you can. However, it’s recommended to progress through the main quest to a certain point (“The Horn of Jurgen Windcaller”) to trigger the Dragonborn questline. Also, the DLC’s difficulty is scaled for higher-level characters, so completing more of the main quest will give you an advantage.

FAQ 5: How long does it take to complete the Dragonborn DLC?

The main questline of the Dragonborn DLC takes approximately 6-7 hours to complete. However, exploring the island, completing side quests, and achieving 100% completion can take around 20-25 hours.

FAQ 6: Can I go to Solstheim without the Dragonborn DLC?

No, you cannot travel to Solstheim in the base game. The Dragonborn DLC is required to access the island and its associated quests.

FAQ 7: What is the main story of Dragonborn DLC about?

The main story revolves around Miraak, the First Dragonborn, who seeks to control Solstheim and dominate your will. You must uncover his plans, confront his followers, and ultimately defeat him to save the island and protect Skyrim.

FAQ 8: What new Dragon Shouts are included in the Dragonborn DLC?

The Dragonborn DLC introduces several new Dragon Shouts, including:

• Cyclone: Creates a swirling vortex that launches enemies into the air.
• Bend Will: Allows you to control the minds of dragons and other creatures.
• Dragon Aspect: Transforms you into a powerful Dragonborn warrior.

FAQ 9: What are some of the unique locations in Solstheim?

Solstheim features diverse and fascinating locations, such as:

• Raven Rock: A dark elf settlement struggling to survive in the harsh environment.
• Tel Mithryn: A mushroom tower inhabited by the eccentric wizard Neloth.
• Skaal Village: A remote Nordic village with a deep connection to nature.
• Apocrypha: Hermaeus Mora’s realm of forbidden knowledge, filled with surreal landscapes and dangerous creatures.

FAQ 10: Are there any new armor sets or weapons in the Dragonborn DLC?

Yes, the Dragonborn DLC introduces a variety of new armor sets and weapons, including:

• Chitin Armor: Armor made from the shells of giant insects.
• Stalhrim Armor: Armor crafted from a rare and powerful ice material.
• Nordic Carved Armor: Intricately designed armor favored by the warriors of Solstheim.
• Dragonbone Weapons: Powerful weapons forged from dragon bones.

FAQ 11: Does the Dragonborn DLC affect the main Skyrim game?

The Dragonborn DLC primarily affects the island of Solstheim. While some new items and abilities can be brought back to Skyrim, the main game world remains largely unchanged. However, you may encounter cultists in Skyrim who are connected to the Dragonborn questline.

FAQ 12: How do I enable DLC in Skyrim if it’s not working?

Generally, if you have the Skyrim Special Edition, the DLC is automatically enabled. However, you can check the “Data Files” section in the game launcher to ensure that the Dragonborn DLC is selected. If it is not, enable it and restart the game.

FAQ 13: Can I add the Dragonborn DLC to an existing Skyrim game?

Yes, you can add the Dragonborn DLC to an existing Skyrim game if you purchase it separately. Once installed, it will integrate seamlessly with your current playthrough.

FAQ 14: What are some tips for surviving in Solstheim at a low level?

• Focus on Stealth: Avoid direct confrontations with strong enemies by using stealth and sneaking.
• Complete Side Quests: Level up by completing easier side quests before tackling the main questline.
• Gather Resources: Collect ingredients for crafting potions and poisons to aid in combat.
• Use Followers: Recruit a strong follower to help you fight enemies and carry your gear.

FAQ 15: Is Skyrim Anniversary Edition the same as Special Edition with Dragonborn?

Skyrim Anniversary Edition includes everything in Special Edition (base game and the three DLCs: Dawnguard, Hearthfire, and Dragonborn) plus a substantial amount of Creation Club content. So, if you want the most complete Skyrim experience, the Anniversary Edition is the way to go.

Conclusion

The Dragonborn DLC is an essential addition to the Skyrim experience, offering a wealth of new content, a compelling storyline, and a challenging world to explore. And, yes, it’s included in the Skyrim Special Edition! So, get ready to set sail for Solstheim and face the mysteries that await. Learning through play is important, so if you’re interested in that kind of approach, check out GamesLearningSociety.org. The Games Learning Society is a professional organization devoted to advancing the scientific understanding of games and learning. Have fun exploring!