Who Has a Crush on the Dragonborn in Skyrim? A Comprehensive Guide
The Dragonborn, the prophesied hero of Skyrim, is not only destined to save the world but also a surprisingly eligible bachelor(ette). The game offers a diverse array of potential romantic partners, and while the depth of their “crush” can be debated, several characters demonstrably display affection or attraction towards the player.
The most prominent character to exhibit a clear romantic interest in the Dragonborn is Aela the Huntress. As a member of the Companions, Aela is a skilled archer, a fierce warrior, and a werewolf. Her dialogue, her willingness to be a follower and spouse, and her overall demeanor strongly suggest a genuine fondness and admiration for the player character. Other characters may be charmed by the Dragonborn’s heroic deeds or wealth, but Aela’s connection feels more personal, built on mutual respect and shared adventure.
Beyond Aela, several other characters are marriageable and, therefore, presumably possess some level of attraction to the Dragonborn. These include characters from various races and backgrounds, each with their own unique personalities and stories. While the nuances of their individual “crushes” are more subtle than Aela’s, their willingness to enter into marriage implies a degree of affection and compatibility. Ultimately, the extent to which these characters have a “crush” on the Dragonborn is left to the player’s interpretation and roleplaying.
Exploring the Romantic Landscape of Skyrim
Skyrim offers a remarkably open-ended approach to relationships. Unlike some games where romantic options are restricted by gender or story choices, Skyrim allows players to pursue relationships with a wide variety of characters, regardless of their race or background. This freedom contributes to the game’s immersive quality, allowing players to forge their own unique connections within the world.
However, it’s important to note that the romantic relationships in Skyrim are relatively simple. The game doesn’t feature complex dialogue trees or elaborate courtship rituals. Instead, relationships are largely built on completing quests, offering assistance, and demonstrating a willingness to commit to marriage. This can leave some players feeling that the romances lack depth, but it also allows for a more streamlined and accessible experience.
The Marriage System in Skyrim
The marriage system in Skyrim is straightforward. To marry a character, the player must first complete a quest or perform a favor for them, demonstrating their suitability as a partner. Once this is done, the player can purchase an Amulet of Mara and wear it while speaking to the desired character. If they are receptive, they will acknowledge the amulet and ask if the player is interested in marrying them. If the player agrees, a wedding ceremony will be held at the Temple of Mara in Riften.
After the wedding, the spouse will move into the player’s home (or offer the player to move into theirs) and provide various benefits, such as cooking meals, running a store, and accompanying the player on adventures. The spouse will also give the player a daily bonus, usually in the form of a small amount of gold.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Skyrim Romances
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further expand your knowledge of the romantic possibilities in Skyrim:
1. Can you marry anyone in Skyrim?
No, not every NPC in Skyrim is marriageable. Only certain characters with specific dialogue options and quest prerequisites can be married. These characters are generally friendly, helpful, and have a positive disposition towards the Dragonborn.
2. Is Aela the Huntress the only character who shows a clear romantic interest in the Dragonborn?
While Aela’s interest is the most overt, other characters who are marriageable can be interpreted as having a crush on the Dragonborn. Their willingness to marry the Dragonborn implies attraction and affection.
3. Can you marry someone of the same sex in Skyrim?
Yes, Skyrim allows same-sex marriages. The gender of the Dragonborn and the potential spouse does not affect the marriage process.
4. What are the benefits of marrying someone in Skyrim?
Marriage in Skyrim provides several benefits, including a spouse who can cook meals, run a store, accompany you on adventures, and provide a daily bonus of gold. The spouse can also act as a follower, assisting you in combat and carrying your burdens.
5. Can you have children in Skyrim?
Not in the base game. While there are adoptable orphans, the Dragonborn cannot biologically have children with their spouse without the use of mods.
6. Can you get divorced in Skyrim?
No, there is no official divorce mechanic in Skyrim. Once you are married, you are married for life, unless your spouse dies.
7. Can you kill your spouse in Skyrim?
Yes, it is possible to kill your spouse in Skyrim. However, this will have negative consequences, as other characters may react with disapproval or hostility.
8. Can you marry a vampire in Skyrim?
You cannot marry Serana, a prominent vampire character, in the base game. However, mods can enable this option. You can marry someone and then turn them into a vampire if you have the Dawnguard DLC and become a vampire yourself.
9. Can you marry a Jarl in Skyrim?
No, Jarls (leaders of cities) are not marriageable in Skyrim. Characters like Jarl Balgruuf are important figures with established roles and responsibilities that preclude marriage to the player character.
10. Who is the most popular spouse in Skyrim?
Aela the Huntress is widely considered the most popular spouse in Skyrim due to her skills as a follower, her lore connection to werewolves, and her overall strong and independent personality.
11. Can you marry Serana after curing her vampirism?
Not in the base game. Even if Serana is cured of her vampirism, she remains unmarriageable. Mods are required to enable this option.
12. Can my spouse be killed?
Yes, your spouse can be killed by enemies or traps if they accompany you on adventures. It is important to protect them during combat.
13. How do you find potential spouses in Skyrim?
Potential spouses can be found throughout Skyrim in various towns, cities, and settlements. Look for characters who offer quests or express a positive disposition towards you.
14. Does race matter when choosing a spouse in Skyrim?
No, race does not affect the benefits or gameplay aspects of marriage in Skyrim. You can marry any eligible character regardless of their race.
15. What is the Amulet of Mara, and how do I get it?
The Amulet of Mara is a necklace required to propose marriage in Skyrim. It can be purchased from Maramal, a priest of Mara, in Riften’s Temple of Mara. You can find more information about the amulet and the marriage system within the game itself.
Understanding the nuances of romantic relationships in Skyrim adds depth to the gameplay experience. While the system may not be the most complex, it offers a level of immersion and personalization that allows players to forge their own unique stories within the world. It also can teach us about personal expression and relationships in a safe and positive manner. For more information on the positive effects that games can have on players, check out the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.