INTRODUCTION
Hello and welcome to the exciting world of Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim! If you’ve always had a love for fantasy and role-playing games (RPG), there’s a good chance you’d dive headfirst into this game and never want to resurface. This beginner-friendly guide was written specifically for folks like you who are new to this majestic game or returning after a long break. The fascinating tale of the Dragonborn, the wide array of weapons, spells, and breathtaking landscapes are just a taste of what Skyrim has to offer.
WHAT IS ELDER SCROLLS V: SKYRIM?
Developed by Bethesda Game Studios, Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is the fifth game in the long-celebrated Elder Scrolls series. Besides its definition as an open-world action role-playing video game, Skyrim is a fantasy journey set in a province named Skyrim, in a world known as Tamriel. Unlike most games, Skyrim doesn’t force you to follow a straight marching order; you’re given the freedom to explore the world as you wish. Laden with NPCs (Non-Player Characters) and hundreds of quests, Skyrim is all about immersing you in a rich narrative while offering you the freedom to be whatever you want to be: a warrior, mage, thief, or a mix of several classes.
HOW IT WORKS/HOW TO GET STARTED
Starting your journey in Skyrim is straightforward. After creating your character with the opportunity to decide the race (which influences your abilities and skills), looks, and class, the game sets you on a journey as the Dragonborn – a mortal chosen by the gods with the power to fight dragons.
When you start, you’re a prisoner (like in other Elder Scrolls games), caught in a civil war between the Imperial Legion and the Stormcloak Rebellion. The story unfolds from this point. The gameplay mechanics involve combat, exploration, interaction with NPCs, questing, looting, crafting and more.
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY
To play Skyrim, all you need is a gaming device. The game is available on several platforms: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, and even the Nintendo Switch. It also includes a VR version. Depending on your platform, you might need a controller (for consoles) or keyboard and mouse (for PC).
TIPS FOR ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS
1. Don’t rush the storyline: Skyrim is an open-world game. So enjoy the world, explore, do side quests, and get lost! It will also level up your character organically.
2. Save often: Skyrim doesn’t auto-save often. So to avoid losing progress, make sure you save frequently.
3. Learn to sneak: Sneaking gives you an advantage in combat situations as well as in stealing items without being detected.
4. Be careful where you swing your weapon, especially in towns. Hitting civilians will get you in trouble.
5. Don’t ignore crafting: Learning to craft your items like weapons and armor can make a significant difference.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
Skyrim has a broad and devoted community. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim subreddit (/r/skyrim) is a wealth of knowledge, beautiful fan-art, and helpful tips. YouTube channels like FudgeMuppet provide a lot of character builds and strategies. The Elder Scrolls Wiki is also a great resource for detailed lore and quest information.
GLOSSARY: COMMON TERMS EXPLAINED
1. Dragonborn: The protagonist of the game, gifted with the ability to use powerful shouts.
2. Shouts: Unique abilities used by the Dragonborn, learned from dragon’s souls.
3. Thane: A honorary title granted to you by a Jarl for your service.
4. Jarl: The ruler of a Hold (region) in Skyrim.
5. NPC: Non-Player Character, controlled by game’s AI.
NEXT STEPS: WHERE TO GO FROM HERE
Now that you have an understanding of the basics, fire up that console or computer, and dive into the world of Skyrim. Try a tutorial game, experiment, make mistakes, and have fun. Remember, no one truly masters Skyrim—the game is a constant journey of discovery and experience. Keep exploring, and remember – the fun in Skyrim isn’t in reaching the destination—it’s in the journey.
