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Which Side Is Better in Skyrim: Imperials or Stormcloaks? A Deep Dive

The age-old question that has sparked countless debates amongst Skyrim players: Imperials or Stormcloaks? The truth, as with most things in life, is that there’s no definitively “better” side. The optimal choice boils down to your individual playstyle, your character’s backstory, and your personal values. Do you prioritize stability and order, or freedom and self-determination? Are you a staunch supporter of tradition, or a rebel against perceived tyranny? Your answers to these questions will heavily influence which side you ultimately choose. This article will explore the nuances of both factions, providing you with the information necessary to make an informed decision.

Understanding the Factions

Before diving into the nitty-gritty, it’s crucial to understand the context of the Skyrim Civil War. The Empire, once a dominant force throughout Tamriel, has been weakened after a devastating war with the Aldmeri Dominion (Thalmor). As part of the peace treaty, the Empire was forced to outlaw the worship of Talos, a human ascended to godhood and revered by many Nords. This act is seen as a blatant betrayal of Nord traditions and beliefs, sparking outrage in Skyrim.

The Imperials: Represent the remnants of a once-great empire, clinging to power and striving to maintain order. They believe that Skyrim is stronger as part of the Empire, united against external threats like the Thalmor. They are pragmatic, willing to make concessions to the Thalmor to avoid further bloodshed. Their strength lies in their disciplined legions, well-equipped and strategically positioned throughout Skyrim.
The Stormcloaks: Led by Ulfric Stormcloak, they are a rebellion fighting for Skyrim’s independence and the right to worship Talos freely. They see the Empire as weak and corrupt, a puppet of the Thalmor, and believe that Skyrim can stand alone. Their ranks are filled with proud Nords, fiercely independent and willing to die for their beliefs. Their strength lies in their unwavering conviction and knowledge of the harsh Skyrim landscape.

Factors to Consider When Choosing

Several factors can influence your decision, including:

Roleplaying and Character Alignment

Consider your character’s background and values. A Nord character with a strong sense of tradition might naturally gravitate towards the Stormcloaks, while an Imperial character valuing order and stability might find themselves siding with the Legion.

Morality and Ethics

Both sides have their flaws. The Empire is arguably complicit in the Thalmor’s religious persecution, while the Stormcloaks are accused of being isolationist and even racist towards non-Nords. Weigh the ethical implications of each faction’s actions.

Gameplay and Rewards

Each side offers unique quests, experiences, and rewards. Joining the Stormcloaks allows you to become Thane of Windhelm and own Hjerim. The Imperial Legion provides a more structured hierarchy and arguably better-looking armor. This aspect can be a determining factor for some players.

Impact on the World

Your choice will have a direct impact on the political landscape of Skyrim. If the Stormcloaks win, Skyrim becomes an independent nation, potentially weakening the Empire and leaving it vulnerable to the Thalmor. An Imperial victory ensures Skyrim remains part of the Empire, contributing to a unified front against future threats.

Examining the Arguments

Arguments for Joining the Imperials

Maintaining Order: The Empire provides stability and protects Skyrim from external threats.
Strategic Alliance: A united Empire is better equipped to resist the Thalmor.
Tradition and Legacy: The Empire represents a long and storied history, and upholding its traditions is essential for the stability of Tamriel.
Greater Resources: The Imperials boast a more robust and well-equipped army, promising a faster and more decisive victory.
Less Prejudice: While not without its issues, the Empire generally promotes a more inclusive society than the Stormcloaks.

Arguments for Joining the Stormcloaks

Religious Freedom: The Stormcloaks fight for the right to worship Talos freely, without interference from the Thalmor or the Empire.
Independence and Self-Determination: Skyrim should be free to govern itself, without being subject to the whims of the Empire.
Nord Identity: The Stormcloaks champion Nord traditions and culture, resisting the erosion of their heritage by the Empire.
Rejecting Tyranny: The Empire is seen as weak and corrupt, a puppet of the Thalmor, and the Stormcloaks offer a chance to overthrow this oppressive regime.
Ulfric’s Leadership: Many Nords see Ulfric as a charismatic and capable leader who can guide Skyrim to a brighter future.

Debunking Common Misconceptions

It’s essential to address some common misconceptions surrounding both factions:

The Stormcloaks are Nazis: While some Stormcloak supporters may exhibit prejudice, labeling the entire faction as Nazi is inaccurate and oversimplifies a complex political situation.
The Imperials are Thalmor Puppets: While the Empire made concessions to the Thalmor, they are not entirely subservient. They are playing a long game, trying to buy time to rebuild their strength and eventually challenge the Dominion.
Choosing a Side Locks You Out of Content: While joining a faction makes the opposing faction hostile, it doesn’t completely lock you out of other content in the game. There are still plenty of quests, locations, and activities to enjoy regardless of your choice.

Making Your Decision

Ultimately, the decision of which side to join is yours. Consider the factors outlined above, weigh the arguments for each faction, and choose the side that aligns with your personal values and playstyle. There is no “right” or “wrong” answer. The beauty of Skyrim lies in its freedom of choice and the ability to shape your own destiny.

This choice showcases the complex relationship between storytelling, character alignment, and gameplay, topics of great interest to educators and researchers in the field of game-based learning. You can learn more about these topics at the Games Learning Society website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are Stormcloaks left or right politically?

This is a complicated question as the game is not set in the real world. Some compare the Stormcloaks to right-wing organizations due to their focus on Nord identity and tradition, while others see the Imperials as representing a more globalist or left-leaning perspective. The analogy to real-world politics is not a perfect fit.

2. Who actually wins: Stormcloaks or Imperials?

While your choices impact the game, the most accepted theory is that the Imperials ultimately win, regardless of your actions. This sets the stage for future Elder Scrolls games.

3. What happens if you side with the Imperials or Stormcloaks?

Siding with the Stormcloaks allows you to become Thane of Windhelm and own Hjerim. Siding with the Imperials gives you a clear progression path in their Legions.

4. Why choose Imperials over Stormcloaks?

The Imperial Legion offers a more structured ranking system, arguably better armor, and a sense of maintaining order and stability.

5. Is Ulfric a bad guy?

Ulfric’s morality is ambiguous. He is seen as a hero by some Nords but is considered a traitor and a troublemaker by Imperial loyalists. He becomes the antagonist if you join the Imperials.

6. Are Imperials or Stormcloaks the good guys?

Neither side is inherently “good” or “evil.” Both have valid arguments and flaws, making the choice a matter of personal preference and moral alignment.

7. What happens if the Imperials win the war?

If the Imperials win, Skyrim remains part of the Empire, strengthening the unified front against the Aldmeri Dominion.

8. Can I betray Stormcloaks?

Yes, you can betray the Stormcloaks by giving the Jagged Crown to the Imperials instead of Ulfric.

9. What happens if you choose Stormcloaks?

Choosing the Stormcloaks results in changes in the Jarls of Whiterun, Riften, and Dawnstar, reflecting their victory in those regions.

10. Can you switch from Imperial to Stormcloak?

Yes, there is one opportunity to switch sides during the “Jagged Crown” quest by giving the crown to the opposing faction.

11. How do I choose Stormcloaks?

You can join the Stormcloaks by speaking to Ulfric Stormcloak in Windhelm and completing his initiation quest.

12. Is Ulfric Stormcloak a hero?

Ulfric is a controversial figure, considered a hero by some and a villain by others. His actions and motivations are open to interpretation.

13. What happens if the Stormcloaks win the Civil war?

The most likely outcome is a weakened Empire, making it more vulnerable to the Aldmeri Dominion’s influence.

14. Does joining the Stormcloaks affect anything?

Joining the Stormcloaks makes Imperial camps hostile and vice versa, but it doesn’t significantly affect major cities.

15. What races would join the Stormcloaks?

Nords are the most common race to join the Stormcloaks, but Bretons, Redguards, Bosmer, and even Imperials can have reasons to support their cause.

This choice also highlights how games like Skyrim provide opportunities for players to engage with complex political and social issues, which are areas of study actively explored by researchers at GamesLearningSociety.org.

Which side is better in Skyrim Imperials or Stormcloaks?