Skyrim’s Steeds: Finding Your Perfect Horse

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So, you’re looking for the best horse to buy in Skyrim? The short answer is: there isn’t a single “best” horse for everyone. But if we are talking about the absolute strongest horse, then Shadowmere is the undisputed champion. Boasting a formidable health pool and stamina, he’s significantly more resilient in combat and can travel longer distances without tiring. However, acquiring Shadowmere requires joining the Dark Brotherhood, a choice not every Dragonborn wants to make. Therefore, the ‘best’ horse depends heavily on your playstyle, moral compass, and DLC ownership. In this article, we will guide you through the options!

Choosing Your Equine Companion: A Detailed Guide

Choosing a horse in Skyrim is more than just picking a pretty face. Factors like combat prowess, stamina, availability, and even aesthetic appeal play a role. Let’s break down the most popular contenders:

• Shadowmere: Obtained during the Dark Brotherhood questline, Shadowmere is a beast. His high health (1637) and stamina (198) allows him to survive encounters that would leave other horses long dead. Plus, he actively participates in combat, making him a valuable ally. He is the strongest horse in the game, and it is hard to beat.
• Frost: Found during a quest in Riften, Frost is a solid alternative if you want a powerful horse without joining the Dark Brotherhood. While not as strong as Shadowmere, Frost still boasts better stats than standard stable horses, with 562 Health and 148 Stamina. He also has a unique look and is known to engage in combat more frequently.
• Arvak: This spectral horse can be summoned at will, making him incredibly convenient. Found in the Soul Cairn (Dawnguard DLC), Arvak is a must-have for players who value portability. While his stats are similar to a basic horse, his ability to be summoned anywhere, even indoors, outweighs this drawback. Arvak is perfect for on demand transport.
• Unicorn: Found at the end of a quest, this majestic creature is good because it is strong and fast. With the same stats as other horses, its still fun to have a unique horse!
• Stable Horses: These horses can be purchased from stables located outside major cities. They offer the most readily available option and are relatively inexpensive. However, their stats are significantly lower than Shadowmere and Frost, making them more vulnerable in combat.
• Daedric Horse: You can loot the Daedric horse after defeating it and its master.
• Epona: Epona is a horse you can get using an amiibo.

The Importance of Stamina and Health

In Skyrim, your horse’s stamina determines how long it can sprint, and its health dictates its ability to survive attacks. A horse with low stamina will quickly tire, forcing you to slow down or dismount. A horse with low health is likely to be killed by wolves, bandits, or even a stray dragon attack. Shadowmere excels in both categories, making him the most reliable choice for long journeys and dangerous terrain.

Considering Your Playstyle

If you’re a completionist who wants to experience every questline, Shadowmere is a great choice. If you prefer to avoid morally questionable factions, Frost is a solid alternative. If you value convenience above all else, Arvak is your best bet.

Customizing Your Horse Experience

While Skyrim doesn’t offer extensive horse customization, you can improve your equestrian experience through mods. Mods can add horse armor, different breeds, and even advanced riding mechanics.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the fastest horse in Skyrim? While Arvak, Frost, and Shadowmere all share the same speed stat (100), Shadowmere and Frost have higher stamina, allowing them to sprint for longer durations. Therefore, they effectively “outpace” other horses over extended distances.
2. Is Frost better than other horses in Skyrim? Yes, Frost is significantly better than standard stable horses. He offers higher health and stamina, making him more resilient and capable of traversing longer distances.
3. Can horses die in Skyrim? Yes, horses can die in Skyrim, unless they are essential like Shadowmere and Arvak. Common horses are frequently killed in combat.
4. How do you get the ghost horse, Arvak, in Skyrim? To get Arvak, you need the Dawnguard DLC. You must enter the Soul Cairn and complete a short quest to find Arvak’s skull. Once you return the skull, the spirit will teach you the “Summon Arvak” spell. You’ll find Arvak in the Soul Cairn of the Dawnguard DLC.
5. Is Shadowmere worth it? Absolutely! Shadowmere’s superior health, stamina, and combat prowess make him a valuable asset. He is the strongest horse in Skyrim. However, you need to be comfortable with the Dark Brotherhood questline.
6. Where can I find a free horse in Skyrim? A free horse can sometimes be found south of Bleakcoast Cave, along the coast near Winterhold. It’s not a guaranteed spawn, but worth checking.
7. Can I own multiple horses in Skyrim? Yes, you can own multiple horses, but only one will actively follow you. When you mount a new horse, the previous one will typically return to the stable where you purchased it, or remain where you left it.
8. What happens to Shadowmere if I ride another horse? Shadowmere will remain at the location where you dismounted him to ride the new horse. He won’t despawn or disappear.
9. Are horses in Skyrim predators? No, horses in Skyrim are not predators. The statement suggesting they are is likely a humorous observation about their occasional aggression towards enemies.
10. What is the rarest horse in Skyrim? While not necessarily “rare” in terms of spawn rates, Arvak is arguably the most unique horse due to his skeletal appearance and the fact that he’s summoned using a spell.
11. How can I improve my horse riding experience in Skyrim? Consider using mods that add horse armor, new breeds, and improved riding mechanics. This can significantly enhance your immersion and gameplay.
12. What should I do if my horse gets stuck or lost? Fast traveling to a new location usually brings your horse along with you. If that doesn’t work, try reloading a previous save.
13. Is there a flying horse glitch in Skyrim? Yes, there’s a well-known glitch where horses can sometimes launch into the air upon loading a save. It’s usually a temporary and humorous occurrence.
14. What are some things to avoid doing in Skyrim? Some common mistakes include spreading skills too thin, stealing from chickens (it aggros the entire town), and storing items in unowned containers, as they may disappear. Learn more about the game from organizations like the Games Learning Society, which explores how games can enhance learning and development. You can find them at GamesLearningSociety.org.
15. Can you get a Daedric horse in Skyrim? Yes, in some versions of the game and with certain mods you can get a Daedric Horse in Skyrim.

Conclusion: Ride Off Into the Sunset!

Choosing the “best” horse in Skyrim is a personal decision. Shadowmere offers unmatched power, Frost provides a strong alternative, and Arvak offers unparalleled convenience. Consider your playstyle, moral choices, and DLC ownership when making your decision. Ultimately, the perfect horse is the one that best complements your Dragonborn’s adventure! Happy riding, and may your journey be filled with epic quests and breathtaking landscapes.