The Ultimate Skyrim Spouse Showdown: Who Should You Marry?

If you’re wandering the frozen wastes of Skyrim, battling dragons, and looting ancient tombs, you might start to feel a little lonely. Fortunately, the game offers a plethora of marriage candidates, each with their own unique personalities, skills, and benefits. But who reigns supreme as the best marriage companion in Skyrim?

The answer, as with many things in Skyrim, is it depends on your personal preferences and play style. However, if you are looking for a well-rounded spouse with a strong moral compass, a helpful shop, and unwavering companionship, Ysolda from Whiterun emerges as a top contender. She’s friendly, easily accessible, runs a profitable business, and doesn’t seem to mind your Dragonborn antics too much. However, other excellent options exist, each offering distinct advantages. Some players prefer a strong warrior like Aela the Huntress, while others value the unwavering loyalty of Lydia.

Digging Deeper: Exploring the Top Marriage Candidates

Let’s delve into the characteristics of some of the most popular and potentially rewarding spouses in Skyrim:

• Ysolda: As mentioned, Ysolda is a pragmatic and industrious Nord woman who dreams of running her own shop. Marrying her allows her to achieve this dream, providing you with a steady income of 100 gold per day and convenient access to her wares. She’s also relatively easy to court, requiring only the completion of a simple fetch quest involving mammoth tusks. This makes her an excellent early-game marriage option.

• Aela the Huntress: For players who enjoy adventuring and battling alongside their spouse, Aela is an outstanding choice. As a member of the Companions, she’s a skilled archer and werewolf with a strong sense of honor. She’s also an essential follower, meaning she cannot die during combat, which is a significant advantage in tough situations. Her fiery personality and connection to the wild add a unique flavor to your marital life.

• Lydia: Often the first follower acquired by the Dragonborn, Lydia is a steadfast and reliable companion. While she might not be the most exciting character, her loyalty is unquestionable. She’s a competent warrior who will faithfully carry your burdens and stand by your side in battle. While she is not essential, with proper equipment and tactics she can become a valuable asset in any fight.

• Mjoll the Lioness: Mjoll is a noble and courageous warrior who despises corruption and seeks to protect the innocent. She’s a strong fighter and makes an excellent guardian for your home. However, be aware that her devoted follower, Aerin, will often accompany her, which some players find annoying. Despite this, her unwavering dedication and commitment to justice make her a compelling marriage option.

• Camilla Valerius: Found in Riverwood, Camilla runs the Riverwood Trader with her brother, Lucan. Marrying Camilla allows her to open her own store, providing income.

• Jenassa: A dark elf mercenary for hire at the Drunken Huntsman in Whiterun, Jenassa is a morally flexible option for the Dragonborn. She is quite strong, and has no qualms about any choices the player makes.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Spouse

Beyond their individual characteristics, several factors can influence your choice of spouse:

• Skills and Combat Prowess: If you prioritize combat effectiveness, look for a spouse with high skills in weapon proficiency, armor, and magic. Essential followers like Aela are particularly valuable in this regard.

• Personality and Roleplaying: Choose a spouse whose personality aligns with your character’s values and motivations. Do you prefer a stoic warrior, a charismatic merchant, or a kind-hearted healer?

• Financial Benefits: Some spouses, like Ysolda and Camilla, can generate income by running their own shops. This can be a significant boon, especially in the early game.

• Location and Accessibility: Consider the spouse’s location and how easily you can access them. Marrying someone who lives in a remote village might be inconvenient if you frequently travel to major cities.

• Moral Alignment: Does your ideal spouse share your moral compass? Or are you looking for an evil spouse?

Making Your Choice: A Matter of Personal Preference

Ultimately, the best marriage companion in Skyrim is the one that best suits your individual needs and preferences. There’s no right or wrong answer. Experiment with different spouses, explore their stories, and choose the one that brings you the most enjoyment and enriches your Skyrim experience. Your spouse can provide benefits that help you throughout your journey, or just someone to adventure alongside.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Skyrim Marriages

Here are some frequently asked questions about marriage in Skyrim, providing even more details to help you make your decision:

1. How do I get married in Skyrim?

To get married in Skyrim, you must first obtain the Amulet of Mara from Maramal in Riften. Wear the amulet and speak to a potential spouse who is receptive to your advances. If they agree, Maramal will perform the ceremony in the Temple of Mara in Riften.

2. Can I marry anyone in Skyrim?

No, you cannot marry any character in Skyrim. Only certain NPCs are eligible for marriage, and they must have a positive disposition towards you.

3. What are the benefits of marriage in Skyrim?

Marriage in Skyrim provides several benefits, including:

• A spouse who will live in your home and cook you a daily meal.
• A spouse who will give you 100 gold per day.
• The ability to sleep in your spouse’s bed for a “well-rested” bonus.
• The ability for your spouse to open a shop and generate income.
• Companionship and emotional support (in a video game kind of way).

4. Can I have children in Skyrim?

No, you cannot have children in Skyrim. The game does not include any mechanics for reproduction or raising children.

5. Can I remarry if my spouse dies?

No, you cannot remarry in Skyrim. Once you are married, you are committed to that spouse for the duration of the game, even if they die.

6. Can I marry a follower in Skyrim?

Yes, many followers in Skyrim are eligible for marriage. This is a convenient option, as you can have your spouse accompany you on adventures.

7. Are there any same-sex marriage options in Skyrim?

Yes, Skyrim supports same-sex marriage. You can marry any eligible NPC regardless of your character’s gender.

8. Can I divorce my spouse in Skyrim?

No, there is no way to divorce your spouse in Skyrim through normal gameplay. Once married, you are married for life (or until death do you part).

9. What happens if I kill my spouse in Skyrim?

If you kill your spouse in Skyrim, you will be considered a murderer and may incur a bounty. Additionally, you will lose all the benefits of marriage and be unable to remarry.

10. Do all spouses offer the same benefits?

No, not all spouses offer the same benefits. Some spouses, like Ysolda, can run their own shops and generate income. Others may have unique skills or abilities that are useful in combat.

11. Can my spouse be killed?

Yes, most spouses can be killed, although essential followers like Aela are an exception. If your spouse is killed, you will lose the benefits of marriage.

12. Where can I find a list of all eligible marriage candidates in Skyrim?

Numerous online resources provide comprehensive lists of eligible marriage candidates in Skyrim, including their locations, requirements, and benefits. The Elder Scrolls wiki is a great place to start.

13. How does marriage affect my roleplaying experience in Skyrim?

Marriage can significantly enhance your roleplaying experience in Skyrim by adding depth and emotional connection to your character’s life. It allows you to build a home, start a family (in a limited sense), and create a more immersive and meaningful experience.

14. Can I move my spouse to a different house?

Yes, you can move your spouse to any house that you own in Skyrim. Simply tell them to move to your owned house, and they will relocate there.

15. Can I marry Karliah?

No, unfortunately, you cannot marry Karliah in the base game.

Skyrim offers many options for companionship, but marriage is a step up! It allows you to explore a different side to the game, all with your new spouse by your side.

The Games Learning Society is another great resource to explore the educational aspects of gaming. Check them out at GamesLearningSociety.org.