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What Happens When the Stormcloaks Win? A Deep Dive into a Skyrim Victorious

A Stormcloak victory in the Skyrim Civil War fundamentally reshapes the political landscape of Tamriel. The immediate consequence is Skyrim’s secession from the Tamrielic Empire, leaving the Empire diminished, weakened, and forced to acknowledge the independence of its northernmost province. This single act has cascading effects on Skyrim’s internal affairs, its relationships with other provinces, and the looming threat of the Aldmeri Dominion. The most critical changes manifest in Skyrim’s governance, its cultural and religious identity, its ability to resist future threats, and the fates of key figures within the game. Skyrim’s independence changes the dynamics with other provinces, the Empire, and the Aldmeri Dominion.

The New Skyrim: Governance and Internal Affairs

Ulfric’s Reign: High King and High Ideals?

With the Empire ousted, Ulfric Stormcloak ascends to the position of High King, although this process may require him to overcome challenges from other Nord Jarls vying for the throne. His leadership is then tested. He faces the daunting task of unifying a war-torn country and implementing his vision of a Skyrim ruled by Nords, for Nords. This could result in policies that favor Nords and restrict the rights of non-Nord residents, potentially leading to social unrest and further fracturing the already delicate societal fabric. We can expect the government to be more focused on Nord customs.

Shifting Jarls: A New Political Landscape

The Jarls who initially supported the Empire are replaced by those loyal to the Stormcloak cause. This includes figures like Skald of The Pale, Laila Law-Giver of The Rift, and Korir of Winterhold, solidifying Ulfric’s power base. The fate of exiled Jarls, such as Elisif the Fair, depends on Ulfric’s disposition; while she may be coerced into renouncing the Empire, her eventual role in a Stormcloak-ruled Skyrim remains uncertain. The installation of Stormcloak-aligned Jarls ensures the implementation of Ulfric’s policies across all holds.

Religious Freedom… With Caveats

One of the primary motivations for the Stormcloak rebellion was the Empire’s enforcement of the White-Gold Concordat, which banned the worship of Talos. A Stormcloak victory leads to the reinstatement of Talos worship as a central aspect of Nord culture and identity. However, this newfound religious freedom may not extend to all faiths. Ulfric’s focus on Nord traditions could lead to discrimination against followers of other religions, particularly those associated with the Empire or perceived as foreign. We might see a return to older Nord customs, possibly even a revival of some of the more ancient and harsh traditions.

Skyrim’s Independence: External Relations and Defense

Relations with the Empire and Other Provinces

Skyrim’s secession deals a crippling blow to the Tamrielic Empire. Reduced to Cyrodiil and High Rock, with only a handful of smaller provinces, the Empire becomes significantly weaker and more vulnerable to external threats. Relations between Skyrim and the Empire would be strained at best, characterized by mistrust and potential border disputes. Other provinces might react in various ways. Some, like Morrowind, might see Skyrim’s independence as an inspiration, while others, such as those still loyal to the Empire, might view it with hostility. The overall fragmentation of the Empire would weaken the entire continent.

Facing the Aldmeri Dominion: A Fragile Defense

The biggest long-term threat to a Stormcloak-ruled Skyrim is the Aldmeri Dominion. The article states that “Stormcloaks Have An Advantage Against The Dominion: Skyrim Itself. Most fans of Skyrim agree that the Stormcloaks stand a far worse chance against an invasion of the Aldmeri Dominion than the Empire, which for the most part is accurate”. While Skyrim’s harsh climate and mountainous terrain offer some natural defenses, the Stormcloaks lack the resources and experience to effectively counter a full-scale Dominion invasion. Ulfric’s focus on Nord traditions and racial purity could also alienate potential allies, further weakening Skyrim’s position. A Dominion victory in a hypothetical war would likely result in Skyrim becoming a vassal state, losing its newfound independence.

Long-Term Survival: Uncertainty Looms

The long-term viability of an independent Skyrim hinges on several factors. Can Ulfric unite the Nords and build a stable, prosperous nation? Can Skyrim forge alliances with other provinces to counterbalance the threat of the Aldmeri Dominion? Can Skyrim resist internal divisions and external pressures? The answers to these questions will determine whether a Stormcloak victory leads to a golden age for Skyrim or a period of decline and eventual subjugation. The future is uncertain, filled with both promise and peril.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it better for the Stormcloaks to win the war? The answer depends on your perspective. A Stormcloak victory grants Skyrim independence and the freedom to worship Talos. However, it also weakens the Empire and leaves Skyrim vulnerable to the Aldmeri Dominion. The “better” outcome is subjective and depends on your values and priorities.
Who are the Jarls who side with the Stormcloaks at the start of the game? The Jarls initially supporting Ulfric are Skald of The Pale, Laila Law-Giver of The Rift, and Korir of Winterhold.
Who becomes Jarl of Solitude if the Stormcloaks win? Elisif the Fair is captured and coerced into renouncing the Empire. A new Jarl, loyal to the Stormcloaks, would likely be installed in her place.
Is Ulfric Stormcloak a bad guy? Ulfric’s morality is ambiguous. Some view him as a freedom fighter, while others see him as a power-hungry demagogue. The game portrays him as a complex character with both admirable and questionable qualities.
Are the Stormcloaks good or evil? Neither the Stormcloaks nor the Imperials are purely good or evil. Both sides have valid reasons for their actions and both are capable of morally questionable deeds. The conflict is a complex struggle for power and ideology, with no clear-cut heroes or villains.
Do Stormcloaks hate elves? Yes, the Stormcloaks generally harbor animosity towards elves, particularly the Altmer (High Elves) of the Aldmeri Dominion. This prejudice is rooted in historical grievances and cultural differences.
What happens to the Empire if the Stormcloaks win? The Empire is significantly weakened, reduced to Cyrodiil and High Rock. Its ability to project power and resist the Aldmeri Dominion is severely diminished.
Can the Dragonborn become a Jarl if the Stormcloaks win? No, the Dragonborn cannot become a Jarl in the base game, regardless of who wins the Civil War. While you can gain influence and titles, the Jarl position remains unattainable without mods.
Does joining the Stormcloaks affect anything outside the Civil War questline? Yes. Joining the Stormcloaks makes Imperial camps hostile. Being in the Stormcloaks makes Imperial camps and forts hostile. However, the major cities generally won’t be affected.
Is it possible to betray the Stormcloaks? Yes, during the “Jagged Crown” quest, you can betray the Stormcloaks by giving the Crown to the Empire.
Who is the best Jarl in Skyrim? Balgruuf the Greater is widely considered the best Jarl in Skyrim due to his honorable nature and effective rule.
What happens to religious freedom if the Stormcloaks win? Talos worship is reinstated, but other religions may face discrimination.
Can Jarls be killed in Skyrim? All Jarls are essential and cannot be killed, except Ulfric Stormcloak during the Battle for Windhelm.
Who becomes Jarl after Ulfric dies in the Stormcloak ending? After Ulfric is dead, Tullius and Rikke will head outside. After the completion of this quest, the Imperials will install a new Jarl, Brunwulf Free-Winter.
How does a Stormcloak victory affect Skyrim’s economy? The economy is likely to be affected by trade disruptions and increased military spending. An independent Skyrim might struggle to maintain a stable economy without the support of the Empire.

The conflict is a complex struggle for power and ideology, with no clear-cut heroes or villains. Remember to visit Games Learning Society or GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more about the educational and societal impacts of gaming.

What changes if the Stormcloaks win?