What Weapon Has the Highest Base Damage in Skyrim? A Deep Dive
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
The question of which weapon boasts the highest base damage in Skyrim is a classic debate among players. Stripping away enchantments, smithing improvements, and other modifications, the Daedric Warhammer stands tall with a base damage of 27. This makes it the reigning champion for raw, unadulterated hitting power in the base game. However, the Dragonbone Warhammer, introduced with the Dawnguard DLC, matches this damage, creating a tie for the top spot.
Delving Deeper: Base Damage vs. Effective Damage
It’s crucial to understand the difference between base damage and effective damage. While the Daedric and Dragonbone Warhammers have the highest base damage, other weapons can surpass them in terms of overall effectiveness with the right enchantments, smithing skills, and perks.
Base damage is the innate damage a weapon deals before any modifications. Effective damage, on the other hand, is the total damage the weapon deals after taking into account all modifiers. For example, a weapon with a lower base damage but a powerful enchantment or significant smithing improvements might ultimately inflict more damage than a Daedric Warhammer.
Weapon Types and Their Base Damage Leaders
Let’s break down the highest base damage weapons by category:
- Warhammer: Daedric Warhammer & Dragonbone Warhammer (27)
- Battleaxe: Daedric Battleaxe (25)
- Greatsword: Dragonbone Greatsword (25)
- Sword (One-Handed): Dragonbone Sword (15)
- Dagger: Dragonbone Dagger & Blade of Woe (12)
- Bow: Daedric Bow (19)
- Crossbow: Enhanced Dwarven Crossbow (22)
The Importance of Smithing and Enchanting
While base damage provides a foundation, the true potential of a weapon is unlocked through smithing and enchanting. A skilled blacksmith can significantly increase a weapon’s damage by tempering it, while powerful enchantments can add elemental damage, absorb health, or paralyze opponents.
FAQs: Unveiling More About Skyrim’s Weapons
1. What is the strongest one-handed sword in Skyrim?
While Miraak’s Sword is often cited, the Dragonbone Sword (added with the Dawnguard DLC) technically has the highest base damage for a one-handed sword at 15. Miraak’s Sword, while powerful, relies on its unique enchantment to absorb health and stamina.
2. Which weapon does extra damage to dragons?
The Dragonbane sword is specifically designed to inflict extra damage on dragons. It is found during the quest Alduin’s Wall and also includes a shock damage enchantment.
3. What is the strongest weapon you can create in Skyrim?
The answer depends on your skills and resources. With a high smithing skill, the Dragonbone weapons (crafted using dragon bones) often emerge as the strongest, especially when further enhanced with enchantments. However, with the Fortify Restoration exploit, insane damage levels are achievable with nearly any weapon.
4. What is the highest damage two-handed weapon in Skyrim?
As mentioned earlier, the Daedric and Dragonbone Warhammers, both with a base damage of 27, are tied for the highest damage two-handed weapons.
5. Who is the strongest sidekick in Skyrim?
Many players consider Serana, the vampire from the Dawnguard DLC, to be the strongest follower. Her necromantic abilities, coupled with her essential status (meaning she cannot die), make her a formidable ally.
6. What is the strongest possible sword in Skyrim?
This is subjective and depends on your build. Dragonbane is excellent against dragons, while other unique swords like Windshear (known for its staggering ability) can be incredibly powerful in the right hands. Ultimately, a crafted and enchanted Dragonbone Sword is a versatile option.
7. What is the strongest armor set in Skyrim?
The Daedric Armor set offers the highest armor rating in the game. It requires a high smithing skill and the Daedric Smithing perk to craft.
8. What weapon does the least damage in Skyrim?
The humble fork holds the dubious honor of being the weakest weapon in the game, with a base damage of only 1.
9. Is a battleaxe better than a greatsword in Skyrim?
Generally, they are comparable. Battleaxes have slightly better stagger values, while greatswords tend to have faster attack speeds. Preference often comes down to playstyle.
10. How do you increase weapon base damage in Skyrim?
You can’t directly increase the base damage listed for the weapon in-game without mods. However, improving your relevant weapon skill (One-Handed, Two-Handed, Archery) increases the damage you deal. Perks in those skill trees also significantly boost damage. Smithing allows you to temper the weapon, further increasing its damage output.
11. Who is the unkillable follower in Skyrim?
Followers who are designated as “essential” characters cannot be killed. Serana is a prominent example, along with others like Aela the Huntress (until the end of the Companions questline).
12. Who is the most badass follower in Skyrim?
Again, subjective! Cicero is a fan favorite for his quirky personality and assassin skills. Mjoll the Lioness is a strong and honorable warrior, while Serana is powerful and mysterious.
13. What dagger does the most damage in Skyrim?
The Dragonbone Dagger and the Blade of Woe both have a base damage of 12, tying them for the highest damage daggers. The Dragonbone Dagger is generally preferred, as it can be enchanted, unlike the Blade of Woe.
14. Does dual wielding increase damage in Skyrim?
Yes, dual wielding can significantly increase your damage output. Power attacks with dual weapons deal substantial damage, and perks like Dual Flurry and Dual Savagery increase attack speed and power attack damage, respectively.
15. What is the best level to get Dragonbane?
Dragonbane scales with your level. At level 46 or higher, it reaches its maximum potential with a base damage of 14, 40 extra damage to dragons, and 10 shock damage.
Mods: Rewriting the Rules of Engagement
Mods can drastically alter the weapon landscape in Skyrim. Some mods introduce new weapons with higher base damage, while others overhaul the smithing and enchanting systems, allowing for even greater customization and power.
Beyond the Numbers: Playstyle Matters
Ultimately, the “best” weapon in Skyrim is subjective and depends on your playstyle. A player who favors heavy armor and slow, powerful attacks might prefer the Daedric Warhammer, while a sneaky assassin might opt for a Dragonbone Dagger with a potent poison enchantment.
Your character build, skill investments, and preferred combat style all contribute to the effectiveness of a weapon. Experiment with different options to find the weapons that best suit your needs and preferences.
The Enduring Appeal of Skyrim
The enduring appeal of Skyrim lies in its freedom and customization. The ability to forge your own path, develop your character, and wield a vast array of weapons ensures that every playthrough is unique. So, while the Daedric Warhammer may have the highest base damage, the true power lies in your hands to craft your own legendary weapon. You might even consider looking at the role that games can play in education, such as the work being done at the Games Learning Society. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more.
This information should help you find the weapon that is best suited for your play style and enjoy the game to its fullest potential. This also lets you understand that it is important to have variety and options in a game so players can experience different play styles.