Who are the Bad Guys: Stormcloaks or Imperials?

The Stormcloaks and Imperials are both complex entities with compelling arguments, making it difficult to pinpoint a clear bad guy, as the conflict is more nuanced and dependent on the perspective of freedom, tradition, and power. The choice between the two ultimately depends on whether you value independence and cultural preservation, as championed by the Stormcloaks, or unity and stability, as advocated by the Imperials.

Understanding the Stormcloaks and Imperials

Introduction to the Conflict

The Civil War in Skyrim is a central plot point in the game, with the Stormcloaks, led by Ulfric Stormcloak, fighting for Skyrim’s independence from the Empire, and the Imperials, led by General Tullius, seeking to maintain Imperial control and unity. The conflict is further complicated by the White-Gold Concordat, which bans the worship of Talos, a deity significant to the Nord people, and the Thalmor, who are the Aldmeri Dominion’s enforcers and have their own interests in the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are the Stormcloaks good guys or bad guys? The Stormcloaks are not simply good or bad; they fight for independence and the right to worship Talos, but their methods and Ulfric’s leadership can be seen as questionable.
2. Who is the villain in the Skyrim Civil War? The villain of the Civil War can be seen as Ulfric Stormcloak, due to his manipulative nature and lust for power, or the Empire, for imposing the White-Gold Concordat and suppressing the Nord culture.
3. Can you betray the Stormcloaks? Yes, it is possible to betray the Stormcloaks by handing the Jagged Crown to the Empire instead of returning it to Ulfric, allowing for a switch in allegiance.
4. Why choose Imperials over Stormcloaks? Choosing the Imperials might be preferred for characters not from Skyrim, as the Stormcloaks might not accept them, and the Imperial Legion offers a more structured and rewarding advancement system.
5. Is Ulfric Stormcloak a good guy? Ulfric is a complex character with both heroic and villainous traits; his actions are driven by a desire for power and independence for Skyrim, but his methods are often morally ambiguous.
6. Who is the strongest ally in Skyrim? Serana is considered one of the strongest followers due to her high levels in Destruction, Conjuration, One-Handed, and Light Armor skills, making her very offensively versatile.
7. Who is the real villain in Skyrim? The real villain of Skyrim is often considered to be Alduin, the World-Eater, who poses a global threat beyond the Civil War.
8. Can you become a Jarl in Skyrim? No, it is not possible to become a Jarl in the standard game, as this would require a mod, and even then, the role of a Jarl is limited and might not offer the freedom or excitement players seek.
9. Who betrayed Ulfric Stormcloak? Hrolfdir betrayed Ulfric, handing him over to the Empire, which led to Ulfric’s imprisonment and fueled his desire for revenge and independence.
10. Who is the most loved character in Skyrim? Characters like Paarthurnax, J’zargo, and Neloth are often liked by fans due to their unique personalities and contributions to the story, while characters like Maven Black-Briar and Cicero are often disliked for their negative traits and actions.
11. What happens if you join the Stormcloaks? Joining the Stormcloaks makes Imperial camps and forts hostile, but the major cities remain neutral, allowing for continued exploration and questing without significant restrictions.
12. Is the Dark Brotherhood good or evil? The Dark Brotherhood is generally considered evil due to their involvement in cold-blooded murder and other criminal activities, making them a morally questionable faction to join.
13. Who is the hardest enemy in Skyrim? Enemies like the Wispmother, Falmer Warmonger, and Hagraven are particularly challenging due to their unique abilities and powerful attacks, requiring strategic combat and preparation to defeat.
14. Can you side with both the Stormcloaks and Imperials? While you can’t simultaneously be a member of both factions, you do have the opportunity to switch sides once after joining, allowing for a change of heart or strategy based on your in-game experiences and preferences.
15. Is there a morally right side in the Skyrim Civil War? Neither the Stormcloaks nor the Imperials can be considered entirely morally right, as both have faults and justifications for their actions, making the choice between them a matter of personal values and playstyle.