Who is the Best Guy to Marry in Skyrim? The Definitive Guide

The question of who makes the best husband in Skyrim is, surprisingly, a complex one. It really boils down to your individual priorities and playstyle. However, if we’re talking about a combination of practicality, personality, and overall benefit, Vilkas of the Companions emerges as the clear frontrunner. He’s a skilled warrior, a loyal friend, becomes available early in the game, and provides consistent benefits after marriage. But let’s dig deeper and explore the nuances of Skyrim husbands.

Why Vilkas? A Deeper Dive

Vilkas distinguishes himself from the other marriage candidates in a number of ways:

• Combat Prowess: Vilkas is a powerful warrior. As a member of the Companions, he is skilled in two-handed weapons and heavy armor. This makes him an invaluable asset in combat, both before and after marriage. Having a spouse who can actually hold their own in a dragon fight? Priceless.
• Moral Compass: Unlike some characters with questionable pasts, Vilkas is a generally honorable guy. He values strength, loyalty, and doing what’s right, even if it’s not always easy.
• Home Cookin’ (Sort Of): After marriage, Vilkas will prepare a home-cooked meal once a day, providing a buff to your character. While the buff itself isn’t game-breaking, it’s a nice little perk that shows he cares (in a very Skyrim kind of way).
• Merchant Perks: Like all spouses, Vilkas will open a shop after marriage, giving you a small, consistent income. This is a useful, if modest, perk.
• Accessibility: Joining the Companions is one of the first major questlines many players undertake, making Vilkas available relatively early in the game. You don’t have to jump through a ton of hoops or complete obscure quests to win his hand.

The Contenders: Other Viable Skyrim Husbands

While Vilkas takes the crown, several other bachelors are worthy of consideration, depending on your personal tastes:

• Argis the Bulwark: This Nord housecarl, earned after becoming Thane of Markarth, is a strong and silent type. He’s dependable and loyal, making him a solid choice for those seeking a straightforward, no-nonsense spouse. The added benefit of obtaining Vlindrel Hall in Markarth makes him a conveniently located husband.
• Farkas: Vilkas’s twin brother! He shares many of Vilkas’s positive traits, including combat skills and loyalty. However, some players find Farkas to be slightly less intelligent or sophisticated than Vilkas.
• Marcurio: A mage for hire in Riften, Marcurio offers a different kind of companionship. He’s witty and sarcastic, providing a bit of levity to the often-grim world of Skyrim. Plus, having a powerful mage backing you up in battle is always a plus.
• Stenvar: A mercenary found at Windhelm’s Candlehearth Hall, Stenvar is a skilled warrior who’s always up for adventure. If you like the mercenary lifestyle, he’s a good match.
• Balimund: As a blacksmith, Balimund of Riften is practical and hard-working. He’s a good option for players who value stability and craftsmanship. He offers merchant services that are convenient if you visit Riften often.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Skyrim Husband

Ultimately, the “best” husband is subjective. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Combat Style: Do you want a warrior, a mage, or an archer by your side? Choose a spouse whose combat skills complement your own.
• Personality: Do you prefer a stoic warrior, a witty mage, or a practical craftsman? Choose a spouse whose personality you enjoy.
• Location: Do you want a spouse who lives in a convenient location? Consider where you spend most of your time in Skyrim.
• Follower Status: Some spouses are also followers, meaning you can bring them on adventures with you. This can be a huge benefit, but it also means they’re more likely to get into trouble (and potentially die).
• Merchant Benefits: All spouses will open a shop after marriage, but some are more convenient than others.
• Moral Alignment: Some spouses have questionable pasts or morals. If you’re playing a good character, you may want to avoid these options.

Mods: Expanding Your Romantic Horizons

For PC players, mods can dramatically expand the pool of potential spouses, allowing you to marry characters who are normally unavailable or to customize the marriage system itself. Mods like “Marriable Serana” are popular, but be aware that using mods can sometimes introduce bugs or instability to your game.

The Importance of Roleplaying

Perhaps the most important factor in choosing a Skyrim husband is roleplaying. Consider your character’s background, personality, and motivations. Who would they be drawn to? Who would they want to spend their life with? Choosing a spouse based on roleplaying can add a whole new level of immersion to your Skyrim experience.

Engage with your community! GamesLearningSociety.org provides a platform to share your experiences and find fellow players to get more tips and tricks to improve your gameplay. Also, make sure to check out the Games Learning Society for resources about learning through video games. https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/

Skyrim Husband FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered

1. Can I have multiple spouses in Skyrim?

No. In the unmodded version of Skyrim, you can only have one spouse at a time. If your spouse dies or you otherwise end the marriage (usually through mods or console commands), you cannot remarry without using mods.

2. Does it matter who I marry in Skyrim?

Yes, it does matter, but only in minor ways. The primary differences lie in their combat skills (if they are followers), their personality, and the type of goods they sell in their shop.

3. Can I marry a Jarl in Skyrim?

No. Jarls, such as Balgruuf the Greater, are not eligible for marriage in the base game. Mods may change this, but be cautious as it can cause storyline problems.

4. Can I marry Serana?

Not without mods. In the original game, Serana is not a marriage option. There are several mods that add this functionality, but they may require specific questline completion or create instability.

5. Where can I find an Amulet of Mara?

The easiest place to find an Amulet of Mara is by speaking to Maramal in the Temple of Mara in Riften. He will explain the marriage process and offer to sell you an amulet. You can also find them randomly in dungeons or as loot.

6. How do I propose marriage in Skyrim?

Once you are wearing an Amulet of Mara and have established a high enough relationship with a marriageable NPC (usually by completing a quest for them), a dialogue option will appear allowing you to propose.

7. What happens after I get married in Skyrim?

After the marriage ceremony, your spouse will move into your home (or you can choose to live in their home). They will also open a shop, providing you with a small income each day.

8. Can my spouse die in Skyrim?

Yes. If your spouse is a follower, they can die in combat. It’s important to protect them. Spouses who stay at home are generally safe.

9. Can I divorce my spouse in Skyrim?

Not in the base game. Divorce requires the use of mods or console commands. Be aware that using these methods can sometimes break quests or cause other issues.

10. Which spouse is the richest in Skyrim?

There isn’t a significant difference in the amount of money spouses generate from their shops. The best spouse for income depends on the player’s trading skills and if there is a need for certain materials.

11. Can I make my spouse a follower after marriage?

If your spouse was a follower before marriage, they will remain a follower after. However, if they were not a follower before, they will not become one after marriage.

12. Can I turn my spouse into a vampire?

Yes, if you have the Dawnguard DLC and have become a vampire yourself. You can offer them the Gift of Blood. However, they won’t become a full vampire like Serana.

13. Who is the most popular male spouse in Skyrim?

Based on community discussions and polls, Vilkas and Argis the Bulwark are consistently among the most popular male spouses in Skyrim.

14. Can I marry someone of the same sex in Skyrim?

Yes. Skyrim allows for same-sex marriage.

15. Does my spouse affect the Skyrim storyline?

No, your spouse does not significantly impact the main storyline or most side quests. They primarily provide companionship and minor economic benefits.

Choosing a spouse in Skyrim is a personal decision. Consider your priorities, your character’s personality, and the kind of gameplay experience you’re looking for. Whether you choose the stalwart Vilkas, the reliable Argis, or another eligible bachelor, may your marriage in Skyrim be long and prosperous!