Skyrim Missed its Shot at One Perfect DLC

As a gamer, I can’t help but marvel at how Skyrim, even after over a decade, continues to spark conversations among us, from the young to the old. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim’s enduring fame is rooted in its core gameplay that offers remarkable replay value and DLCs brimming with compelling stories and rich content. The adventures in Dawnguard and Dragonborn were nothing short of epic, pitting the player against eldritch terrors, vampires, and forgotten civilizations. While two expansions are typical for AAA RPGs like Skyrim, I often find myself wishing there was another one, delving into a historic landmark within the province.

In newer iterations of “The Elder Scrolls” series, each game focuses on a distinct province. The fifth and most recent installment in the series is set in the frosty peaks and frozen valleys of Skyrim. Although the Nords form the majority of the population, the province boasts a rich diversity. Originally inhabited by Snow Elves and the Dunmer, these populations dwindled due to conflict and oppression. Clues about the Snow Elves’ disappearance can be uncovered in the Forgotten Vale region within Skyrim. Although this area was introduced through the Dawnguard DLC, it’s worth considering it as a standalone expansion.

Why the Forgotten Vale Deserved a Stand-Alone DLC in Skyrim

The Secluded Vale, situated north of Markarth, is a remote area teeming with Falmer, Frost Giants, and Frost Trolls. Adventurers may stumble upon it while following the Dawnguard’s “Touching the Sky” questline, during which the Dragonborn uncovers the real story behind the Snow Elves’ downfall and the origins of vampires in Nirn. Although this questline is broad, it primarily functions as a subplot, focusing on either destroying or allying with Skyrim’s notorious vampire clan – the main objective of Dawnguard.

The Snow Elves’ Tragic Story Deserves More Attention

During your expedition in The Forgotten Vale, it’s probable that you’ll encounter the Knight-Paladin Gelebor. He may task you with eliminating his brother Vythur, who has been tainted by the Falmer. As you interact with Gelebor throughout the quest, you’ll gradually uncover the truth that Skyrim’s Snow Elves and what appear to be primitive, ferocious Falmer are one and the same.

As per Knight-Paladin’s account, their tribe was compelled to withdraw following their defeat against the Nords. In desperation, they sought refuge with the Dwarves, who initially agreed to welcome them. However, the Dwemer later deceived the Elves by making them consume a toxin that blinded them. The Dwarves then subjected the Snow Elves to slavery, inflicting pain and suffering for centuries. This prolonged torment eventually transformed them into the twisted Falmer. These beings now inhabit the deserted halls of Dwemer ruins, following the mysterious disappearance of the Dwarves during the Battle of Red Mountain in the First Era.

Certain Snow Elves, such as Gelebor and Vythur, managed to escape enslavement by the Dwemer by seeking refuge in sanctuaries or staying with powerful benefactors. Over time, their numbers significantly decreased, causing many to live in complete secrecy. As early as the Second Era, it was widely believed that they had become extinct.

It would have been intriguing to delve deeper into the history and culture of the Snow Elves by engaging in an immersive quest or expansion rather than relying solely on dialogue. An Elder Scroll might enable the Dragonborn to experience personally the conflict with the Nords, the darkening of the Falmer, and the exodus of the last surviving Snow Elves. Gelebor hinted that while the Falmer cannot regain their former Snow Elf forms, they are becoming more intelligent. If we understood the trials faced by the Falmer, a Forgotten Vale DLC that allows players to interact with them and help them achieve tranquility could be an exciting alternative to merely evading or slaughtering them for loot. Possibly, The Elder Scrolls 6 could introduce a Snow Elf-focused DLC to ensure they receive the recognition they deserve, even if it’s not based in The Forgotten Vale.

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2025-01-06 23:39