Which Side of the War to Join in Skyrim?

The decision of which side to join in the war in Skyrim largely depends on the player’s character background and playstyle preferences, with the Imperial side being more suitable for characters from outside Skyrim and the Stormcloak side being more appealing to those who believe in Skyrim’s independence. Ultimately, the choice between Stormcloaks and Imperials comes down to whether you want to support the Empire’s rule or fight for Skyrim’s freedom, with both sides having compelling arguments and unique consequences.

Understanding the War in Skyrim

The war in Skyrim is a central aspect of the game, with the Stormcloaks, led by Ulfric Stormcloak, fighting for independence from the Empire, and the Imperials, led by General Tullius, seeking to maintain control over the region. The player’s decision to join either side will have significant implications on the game’s story and outcome.

FAQs About Joining the War in Skyrim

General Questions

1. Do I have to pick a side in the war in Skyrim?: No, you don’t have to pick a side, but if you choose not to, the war will remain in a stalemate, with no progress or major battles occurring.
2. Does joining the Stormcloaks affect anything?: Yes, joining the Stormcloaks will make Imperial camps and forts hostile, and vice versa, but major cities will generally remain neutral.
3. Who are the bad guys, Stormcloaks or Imperials?: Both sides have valid arguments, with the Stormcloaks fighting for freedom and the Imperials seeking to maintain order and stability.
4. Do the Imperials or Stormcloaks win?: The outcome of the war depends on the player’s choice, but if left uncompleted, the Imperials are likely to emerge victorious.
5. Which faction should you choose in Skyrim?: The choice between Stormcloaks and Imperials depends on your character background and playstyle preferences.

Joining the Stormcloaks

6. What happens if you choose Stormcloaks?: Joining the Stormcloaks will allow you to battle alongside Ulfric and potentially become the Thane of Windhelm and owner of Hjerim.
7. Can you side with both Imperials and Stormcloaks?: No, once you start one side’s questline, the other side’s quests will be closed off.
8. Will I lose Lydia if I join the Stormcloaks?: No, Lydia will remain your follower regardless of which side you choose.

Joining the Imperials

9. What happens if you join the Imperials in Skyrim?: Joining the Imperials will result in Ulfric’s death and the Empire’s control over Skyrim being maintained.
10. What happens if you side with the Imperials or Stormcloaks?: Siding with the Stormcloaks offers the benefit of becoming Thane of Windhelm, while siding with the Imperials does not.

Consequences and Outcomes

11. Can you switch sides after joining the Stormcloaks?: Yes, you can betray the Stormcloaks by giving the Jagged Crown to General Tullius instead of Ulfric.
12. Do you lose your house in Whiterun if you join the Stormcloaks?: No, your house in Whiterun will remain yours regardless of which side you choose.
13. Is it better to join Stormcloaks or Imperials?: The choice between Stormcloaks and Imperials depends on your character’s background and playstyle preferences.
14. Can you peacefully end the war in Skyrim?: No, the only way to end the war is through victory for one side, with a temporary truce possible during the main quest.
15. Which faction destroys Whiterun?: The Stormcloaks attack Whiterun during the civil war, and while it can be repaired with mods, it remains damaged in the vanilla game.