Should I finish the main quest before Dawnguard?

To answer the question directly, it is not strictly necessary to finish the main quest before starting Dawnguard, as the two questlines intersect at certain points and can be completed in either order, but doing the main quest first provides a more cohesive storyline and allows for a better understanding of the Dragonborn‘s role in the world of Skyrim. Completing the main quest before Dawnguard also enables players to appreciate the Dawnguard storyline more fully, as it builds upon the events and characters introduced in the main quest.

Understanding the Dawnguard Questline

The Dawnguard questline is a significant part of the Skyrim experience, offering a unique storyline that explores the conflict between vampires and Dawnguard, a group of vampire hunters. Understanding the context of Dawnguard within the larger narrative of Skyrim can enhance the player’s enjoyment of the game.

Importance of Context

The main quest provides essential context for the world of Skyrim, including the history of the Dragons, the role of the Dragonborn, and the political landscape of the region. Playing through the main quest first gives players a deeper understanding of these elements, which are crucial to appreciating the Dawnguard storyline.

FAQs

1. Should you do Dawnguard after the main quest? While it’s possible to do Dawnguard before or after the main quest, completing the main quest first allows for a more cohesive narrative experience.
2. Can you start Dawnguard before the main quest? Yes, you can start Dawnguard before completing the main quest, but some parts of the storyline may not make as much sense without the context provided by the main quest.
3. What level should I be before starting Dawnguard? It’s recommended to be at least level 30 before starting Dawnguard, as the DLC contains powerful foes that can be challenging for lower-level characters.
4. Is it better to be a vampire or Dawnguard? Joining the Dawnguard is often considered the better choice, as it offers more extensive benefits and a more engaging storyline.
5. Can you become a Vampire Lord before Dawnguard? You can become a Vampire Lord as part of the Dawnguard questline, and it’s possible to become a Vampire Lord later in the game, even if you side with the Dawnguard.
6. What happens if you are a vampire before Dawnguard? If you’re already a vampire when starting Dawnguard, you’ll be asked to get cured before proceeding with the questline.
7. Can you start the Dawnguard questline as a vampire? While it’s possible to start Dawnguard as a vampire, you’ll need to get cured to progress through the questline.
8. Is it better to side with the Dawnguard? Unless you plan to use the Vampire Lord form extensively, it’s generally better to side with the Dawnguard, as they offer more benefits and a more engaging storyline.
9. What happens if you go to Dawnguard with Serana? If you side with the Dawnguard, Serana will join you and help you with the questline, and you can eventually cure her vampirism.
10. Can I wipe out the Dawnguard? Yes, it’s possible to destroy the Dawnguard as part of the Volkihar questline, offering an alternative storyline and set of benefits.
11. Does Serana get cured? Yes, Serana can be cured of her vampirism after completing the Dawnguard DLC, and you can also cure your own character if you’ve become a vampire.
12. Is it better to be a vampire or werewolf in Skyrim? Being a werewolf is often considered less taxing and more convenient, while being a vampire offers more benefits but requires more maintenance.
13. Is vampire lord or werewolf better? Vampire Lords are generally more powerful than werewolves, especially at higher levels, but both offer unique benefits and playstyles.
14. At what level will Dawnguard contact you? You’ll typically be contacted by the Dawnguard at level 10, either through a guard’s comment or by meeting an orc named Durak.
15. Is Dawnguard worth it? Yes, Dawnguard is considered an essential part of the Skyrim experience, offering a unique storyline, new characters, and extensive gameplay benefits, making it well worth playing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while it’s possible to play Dawnguard before completing the main quest, doing so may detract from the overall narrative experience. Completing the main quest first provides essential context and a deeper understanding of the world of Skyrim, allowing players to fully appreciate the Dawnguard storyline and its characters. By understanding the Dawnguard questline and its place within the larger Skyrim narrative, players can enhance their overall gaming experience and enjoy the unique benefits and storylines offered by this extensive DLC.