One of the main draws ofSkyrimis the freedom to play as any kind of character, with a wide variety of playstyles available right from the start of the game, which is something players may come to expect fromThe Elder Scrolls 6. Two kinds of playstyles have always been popular inSkyrim, but haven’t always had the robust support that they enjoy now: vampires and werewolves. Becoming a vampire or werewolf has always been available inSkyrim, but both received significant changes with theSkyrimexpansion packDawnguard.
Vampires received an appearance overhaul, the Vampire Lord form, changes to their functionality and overall mechanics, and a skill tree, while werewolves received a skill tree. One of the reasons vampires received such a massive overhaul withDawnguardwas because their original appearance inSkyrimwas incredibly lackluster, especially when compared to their iteration inThe Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion.The Elder Scrolls 6needs to avoid this mistake and get these two playstyles right without the need for expansion packs to correct them because of how essential they are inThe Elder Scrolls.
The Differences Between Werewolves and Vampires in Skyrim
Werewolves have numerous advantages, including a 100% resistance to disease. While the werewolf form can only be accessed once per day, using Hircine’s Ring allows the Dragonborn to shapeshift whenever they like, eliminating most drawbacks of becoming a werewolf. Theonly drawback to lycanthropy inSkyrimis the inability to gain the Well-Rested bonus while sleeping, which for most is a worthwhile trade-off. While werewolves do gain an additional skill tree and some bonus items in theDragonbornexpansion pack, these feel more like bonus supplementary material, and are not essential for playing a werewolf inSkyrim.
Vampirism, however, was more difficult to play before Dawnguard. As vampires are vulnerable to sunlight and fire, it makes playingSkyrimmore limiting, as playing during sunlit hours is more difficult. Health, stamina, and magicka do not regenerate while a vampire is in sunlight. Although vampires get several advantages, including a bonus to sneak and numerous unique spells, the difficulty of playing a vampire inSkyrimbeforeDawnguardmade becoming one a more difficult choice. However, withDawnguard, vampires have numerous advantages, including the use of Auriel’s Bow to remove sunlight during the day. This, coupled with theVampire Lord skill tree and new options to feed, made vampires more versatile.
How Vampires and Werewolves Could Be Depicted in The Elder Scrolls 6
As both werewolves and vampires are popular playstyles thanks to the poison and disease resistances they grant and the roleplaying potential they offer, they need to have the kind of versatility and support thatDawnguardoffers right from the start inThe Elder Scrolls 6. Introducing options that make these playstyles viable only after several years in a paid expansion pack isn’t a great option, especially as these two playstyles have become staples ofThe Elder Scrolls.
Both playstyles add depth, not only to gameplay, but to thelore ofThe Elder Scrolls. In the open sandbox worlds thatThe Elder Scrollsuses, creating the potential for conflict within storylines through gameplay mechanics is the perfect way to get players engaged while creating combat that’s fun and exciting. To leave two playstyles like vampirism and lycanthropy for a future expansion instead of incorporating them intoThe Elder Scrolls 6’s base game, at least in a more fulfilling fashion like withDawnguard, would be a missed opportunity.
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
WHERE TO PLAY
Winner of more than 200 Game of the Year Awards, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim celebrates 10 years of adventuring in stunning detail. The Anniversary Edition includes a decade worth of content: the critically acclaimed core game and add-ons of Skyrim Special Edition, plus Creation Club content released on or prior to July 31, 2025.EPIC FANTASY REBORNSkyrim reimagines and revolutionizes the open-world fantasy epic, bringing to life a complete virtual world open for you to explore any way you choose.LIVE ANOTHER LIFE, IN ANOTHER WORLDPlay any type of character you may imagine, and do whatever you want; the legendary freedom of choice, storytelling, and adventure of The Elder Scrolls is realized like never before.YOU ARE WHAT YOU PLAYChoose from hundreds of weapons, spells, and abilities. The new character system allows you to play any way you want and define yourself through your actions.BATTLE DRAGONSBattle ancient dragons like you’ve never seen. As Dragonborn, learn their secrets and harness their power for yourself.
