The Curious Case of the Returned Skeleton Key: What Happens When You Give It Back?
In the vast and intricate world of Tamriel, players of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion face countless choices, each with its own set of consequences. One of the most significant decisions revolves around the Skeleton Key, a powerful Daedric artifact granted by the Daedric Prince Nocturnal during the Thieves Guild questline. The question that often plagues players’ minds is: What happens if you give the Skeleton Key back?
The direct answer is that returning the Skeleton Key to the Ebonmere shrine at the end of the Thieves Guild questline restores Nocturnal’s power and, in doing so, concludes the questline. More specifically, you relinquish its power to endlessly pick locks. You will permanently lose the ability to infinitely pick locks, a tempting prospect for any aspiring thief. However, in return, you receive the Twilight Sepulcher’s unique blessing, which grants the “Agent of Nocturnal” ability.
This “Agent of Nocturnal” ability has two distinct versions, each active for a period of 24 in-game hours, chosen by interacting with a font within the Sepulcher after returning the Key. You can choose between Nocturnal’s Embrace (Invisibility) and Nocturnal’s Blessing (Fortify Skill). This ability can be activated once every in-game day. Thus, while you lose the immediate convenience of unlimited lockpicking, you gain a powerful and potentially more valuable ability to aid you in your future adventures.
The decision hinges on your play style and priorities. If you value consistent and reliable lockpicking above all else, hoarding the Key is the way to go. However, if you’re willing to trade that convenience for a powerful daily ability and complete the Thieves Guild questline according to its intended design, returning the Skeleton Key offers a rewarding alternative.
Delving Deeper: The Implications of Your Choice
The decision to return, or not return, the Skeleton Key has far-reaching implications that extend beyond the immediate benefits and drawbacks. It’s a choice that speaks to the player’s moral compass, their dedication to completing questlines as intended, and their preferred method of gameplay.
Holding onto the Key essentially breaks the game’s intended progression. Lockpicking becomes trivial, diminishing the value of lockpicking skill increases and rendering lockpicks practically useless. For some players, this represents a liberating shortcut, allowing them to bypass challenges and access content early. For others, it undermines the integrity of the game and reduces the sense of accomplishment derived from mastering the lockpicking skill.
Returning the Key, on the other hand, adheres to the game’s design principles. It preserves the challenge of lockpicking, encourages players to invest in the relevant skills, and fosters a sense of immersion within the world of Oblivion. Furthermore, it acknowledges the importance of honoring Daedric pacts and respecting the balance of power within Tamriel.
Ultimately, the choice is yours. There is no right or wrong answer, only different paths to pursue. Consider the implications carefully and choose the option that aligns best with your personal preferences and desired gaming experience.
The Role of Game Design in Moral Decisions
The Oblivion developers intentionally built this choice into the game. It exemplifies how game design can present players with meaningful decisions that have long-term consequences. This also relates to Games Learning Society‘s goal of studying the intersection of games, learning, and society. By understanding the choices, consequences, and the impact on the player’s experience, we can gain insights into how games can be utilized for education, training, and even to foster critical thinking. To learn more about game design and its impact on players, you can visit GamesLearningSociety.org.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about the Skeleton Key and its return, addressing common concerns and providing comprehensive information:
1. Can I get the Skeleton Key back after returning it?
No, once you return the Skeleton Key to the Ebonmere shrine, it is gone permanently. You cannot retrieve it again in that playthrough.
2. What are the two versions of the “Agent of Nocturnal” ability?
The two versions are Nocturnal’s Embrace, granting invisibility, and Nocturnal’s Blessing, fortifying your Security skill by 10 points for 120 seconds.
3. How often can I use the “Agent of Nocturnal” ability?
You can use the “Agent of Nocturnal” ability once every 24 in-game hours.
4. Does the Skeleton Key break?
No, unlike regular lockpicks, the Skeleton Key does not break. This is one of its primary advantages.
5. Does the Skeleton Key level up my lockpicking skill?
No, using the Skeleton Key does not increase your lockpicking skill.
6. Is it possible to complete the Thieves Guild questline without returning the Skeleton Key?
No, returning the Skeleton Key is the final step in completing the Thieves Guild questline.
7. What happens if I get caught stealing while using Nocturnal’s Embrace?
Getting caught while invisible due to Nocturnal’s Embrace will remove the invisibility effect and alert the guards.
8. Is Nocturnal’s Blessing affected by my current Security skill level?
No, Nocturnal’s Blessing always fortifies your Security skill by a flat 10 points, regardless of your current skill level.
9. Can I use Nocturnal’s Blessing to open locks I couldn’t normally open?
Yes, Nocturnal’s Blessing can temporarily boost your Security skill enough to allow you to open locks that were previously too difficult.
10. Does returning the Skeleton Key affect my standing with the Thieves Guild?
Returning the Skeleton Key is the final step in becoming the Gray Fox, leader of the Thieves Guild.
11. Are there any mods that allow me to keep the Skeleton Key and still get the Agent of Nocturnal ability?
Yes, several mods are available that alter the mechanics of the Skeleton Key and the Thieves Guild questline, allowing you to retain the key while still accessing the “Agent of Nocturnal” ability. These mods usually involve scripting and may require other game modifications.
12. If I choose to keep the Skeleton Key, am I locked out of any other major quests or content?
No, keeping the Skeleton Key does not lock you out of any other major quests or content in the game.
13. Can I use console commands to obtain the Agent of Nocturnal abilities if I keep the Skeleton Key?
Yes, console commands can be used to grant yourself the Agent of Nocturnal abilities, even if you choose to keep the Skeleton Key. However, using console commands may be considered cheating by some players.
14. What is the intended purpose of the Skeleton Key within the lore of the Elder Scrolls universe?
Within the lore, the Skeleton Key is a powerful Daedric artifact that allows its wielder to unlock any door or barrier, both physical and metaphorical. It is associated with the Daedric Prince Nocturnal, the patron of thieves and secrets. Its return restores Nocturnal’s influence on the flow of fate in Nirn.
15. Does the choice to return the Skeleton Key affect the ending of Oblivion?
No, the decision to return or keep the Skeleton Key does not directly affect the ending of Oblivion. The main questline and its conclusion remain unchanged.
In conclusion, the choice of what to do with the Skeleton Key in Oblivion is ultimately a matter of personal preference. Weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each option carefully and choose the path that best suits your play style and desired gaming experience. Whether you prioritize the convenience of unlimited lockpicking or the unique abilities granted by Nocturnal, the decision is yours to make.