Who Should I Side with in Skyrim Civil War?
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The decision of who to side with in the Skyrim Civil War ultimately depends on your personal preferences and playstyle, as both the Imperials and Stormcloaks have valid reasons for their causes, and neither can be definitively labeled as the “good” or “bad” side. By understanding the motivations and goals of each faction, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your character’s background and values.
Understanding the Factions
To make a decision, it’s essential to understand the Imperials and Stormcloaks. The Imperials are the government of the Empire, seeking to maintain control and order in Skyrim, while the Stormcloaks are a rebel group fighting for independence and the right to worship Talos.
Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
- What happens if you side with the Stormcloaks? Siding with the Stormcloaks results in Vignar Grey-Mane becoming the new Jarl of Whiterun, Laila Law-Giver reclaiming her position as the Jarl of Riften, and Skald the Elder retaking his role as Jarl of Dawnstar.
- Can I betray the Stormcloaks? Yes, you can betray the Stormcloaks by retrieving the Jagged Crown and handing it over to the Empire instead of Ulfric.
- Are the Stormcloaks the bad guys in Skyrim? No, the Stormcloaks are not inherently bad, as they are fighting for Nord customs and independence, while the true antagonists are the Thalmor.
Faction-Specific Questions
- What is the Imperial Legion’s goal? The Imperial Legion aims to maintain control and order in Skyrim, while also enforcing the ban on Talos worship to avoid conflict with the Thalmor.
- What is the Stormcloaks’ motivation? The Stormcloaks are motivated by a desire for independence and the right to worship Talos, as well as a sense of Nord identity and self-governance.
- Can I switch from Stormcloak to Imperial? Yes, you can switch sides during the Civil War questline, but only at a specific point when you are asked to retrieve the Jagged Crown.
Character-Specific Questions
- Is Ulfric Stormcloak a good guy? Ulfric Stormcloak is a complex character with both positive and negative traits, and his motivations are driven by a desire for independence and self-governance.
- Is Ulfric a Dragonborn? No, Ulfric is not a Dragonborn, but he has learned some Shouts during his time at High Hrothgar.
- Who kills Ulfric Stormcloak? Ulfric Stormcloak can be killed by the Dragonborn or General Tullius, depending on the player’s choices.
Gameplay Questions
- Do the Thalmor want the Stormcloaks to win? No, the Thalmor do not want the Stormcloaks to win, as they prefer to maintain their influence over the Empire.
- Can I have a baby in Skyrim? No, the Dragonborn cannot have a biological child, but can adopt children in the game.
- What happens if the Stormcloaks win the war? If the Stormcloaks win the war, Ulfric will become the High King of Skyrim, and the Holds will be ruled by different Jarls.
Lore-Specific Questions
- What is the significance of the Civil War in Skyrim? The Civil War in Skyrim is a morally gray conflict that sets the stage for the larger struggle against the Thalmor and the Aldmeri Dominion.
- Is there a right side in the Skyrim Civil War? There is no clear right or wrong side in the Civil War, as both factions have valid motivations and goals.
- What is the ultimate goal of the Thalmor? The Thalmor seek to dominate and assimilate the other races of Tamriel, using their magic and diplomacy to achieve their goals.