Join The Dawnguard In Skyrim: A Step-by-Step Guide
Hey guys! So, you've installed the Dawnguard DLC for Skyrim and you're itching to dive into some vampire hunting, huh? Awesome! Joining the Dawnguard is a fantastic way to add a ton of exciting new quests, characters, and gear to your Skyrim experience. But where do you even start? Don't worry, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to join the Dawnguard and begin your journey as a vampire hunter. We'll cover locating Fort Dawnguard, completing the initial quests, and what you can expect as a member. So grab your sword, sharpen your stakes, and let's get started!
Finding Fort Dawnguard: Your First Step
First things first, you'll need to actually find the Dawnguard's headquarters: Fort Dawnguard. This might sound simple, but Skyrim's map can be pretty vast, and it's easy to miss if you don't know where to look. So, where is this mysterious fort located? Fort Dawnguard is nestled in the southeastern corner of the map, in the Rift region. More specifically, it's situated in a mountain pass east of Riften. If you've already explored the area around Riften, you might have stumbled upon it already. If not, don't fret! I'll give you some detailed directions to make it super easy to find.
To get to Fort Dawnguard, the easiest route is usually to head east from Riften. Follow the road that leads out of the city's eastern gate. As you travel, you'll want to keep an eye out for a small path that veers off the main road and heads into the mountains. This path is often marked by a signpost, but it can be easy to miss, so stay vigilant! The signpost usually points towards Dayspring Canyon, which is the area where Fort Dawnguard is located. Once you find this path, follow it upwards and into the mountains. The path will wind and twist, taking you through some scenic (and potentially dangerous!) terrain. Be prepared to encounter some wildlife, like wolves or even the occasional troll, so make sure you're geared up for a fight. As you continue along the path, you'll eventually come across a large, fortified entrance built into the mountainside – that's Fort Dawnguard! The fort itself is quite impressive, a testament to the Dawnguard's dedication to their cause. You'll see sturdy stone walls, watchtowers, and a general sense of preparedness. This is definitely a place where serious vampire hunting business goes down.
Now, reaching Fort Dawnguard can be a bit of a trek, especially if you're starting from the other side of Skyrim. But don't let that discourage you! The journey is part of the adventure, and the rewards for joining the Dawnguard are well worth the effort. Plus, discovering new locations in Skyrim is always a treat. If you're having trouble finding the path, try asking a guard in Riften for directions. They might point you in the right direction, or at least give you a general idea of where to go. Alternatively, you can check your map frequently and compare it to online maps or guides to make sure you're on the right track. Once you've located Fort Dawnguard, you're one step closer to becoming a full-fledged member and taking the fight to the vampires! Get ready for some serious action, because the Dawnguard doesn't mess around when it comes to dealing with the undead.
Joining the Ranks: The Dawnguard Questline
Alright, you've made it to Fort Dawnguard – awesome job! Now comes the exciting part: actually joining the Dawnguard and kicking off the questline. This involves a few steps, including speaking with the leader and proving your worth. But trust me, it's all pretty straightforward, and you'll be slaying vampires in no time. Once you're inside the fort, you'll immediately notice that this is a place of action. Dawnguard members are bustling around, preparing for their next hunt, and the atmosphere is one of grim determination. Head inside the main hall, and you'll likely see Isran, the leader of the Dawnguard. He's a grizzled veteran, a no-nonsense kind of guy who's dedicated to eradicating the vampire threat. Isran is the key to joining the Dawnguard, so you'll want to make a beeline for him.
When you speak to Isran, he'll likely be in the middle of discussing the recent rise in vampire activity in Skyrim. He's clearly concerned about the growing threat, and he's looking for capable individuals to help him fight back. This is where you come in! During the conversation, Isran will explain the situation and ask if you're willing to join the Dawnguard. Obviously, if you want to join, you'll need to say yes! Once you agree, Isran will give you your first task: to investigate a place called Dimhollow Crypt. This is where the main questline really begins, and it's a crucial step in understanding the scope of the vampire threat and the Dawnguard's mission. Dimhollow Crypt is located to the northwest of Fort Dawnguard, so you'll need to travel a bit to get there. Isran will provide you with some basic information about the crypt, but he won't give you all the details. He wants you to investigate and find out what's going on for yourself. This first quest, aptly named "Awakening," will introduce you to some key characters and set the stage for the rest of the Dawnguard storyline. Be prepared for some combat, as Dimhollow Crypt is crawling with vampires and other undead creatures. You'll need to use your skills and gear to survive and uncover the secrets hidden within.
Completing this quest is essential for moving forward in the Dawnguard questline and solidifying your place within the order. It's also a great way to get a feel for the challenges that lie ahead and the types of enemies you'll be facing. As you progress through "Awakening," you'll encounter new allies, face tough decisions, and learn more about the ancient prophecy that drives the vampire threat. This is just the beginning of a long and exciting journey, but by completing this initial quest, you'll prove your dedication to the Dawnguard and earn the trust of its members. So, gear up, head to Dimhollow Crypt, and get ready to face the darkness! The fate of Skyrim may very well depend on your success.
What to Expect as a Dawnguard Member: Benefits and Gameplay
So, you've officially joined the Dawnguard – congratulations! You're now a part of an elite order dedicated to hunting vampires and protecting the people of Skyrim. But what does that actually mean in terms of gameplay? What benefits do you get, and what can you expect as you progress through the Dawnguard questline? Let's break it down. One of the most immediate benefits of joining the Dawnguard is access to their impressive arsenal of weapons and equipment. The Dawnguard specializes in fighting vampires, and their gear reflects that. You'll find a variety of crossbows, which are particularly effective against undead creatures, as well as specialized armor designed to protect you from their attacks. Crossbows are a real game-changer, offering a powerful ranged option that can stagger enemies and deal significant damage. You can even acquire enhanced crossbows that fire explosive bolts, adding even more firepower to your arsenal. The Dawnguard armor is also a valuable asset, providing excellent protection and a distinctive look that sets you apart as a vampire hunter. As you progress through the Dawnguard questline, you'll have opportunities to acquire even more powerful weapons and armor, including unique artifacts and enchanted items.
Beyond the gear, joining the Dawnguard also opens up a whole new range of quests and storylines. The Dawnguard questline is a significant addition to Skyrim, offering hours of gameplay and a compelling narrative that explores the ancient conflict between vampires and mortals. You'll embark on daring missions to hunt down vampire lairs, investigate ancient ruins, and confront powerful vampire lords. Along the way, you'll meet fascinating characters, both within the Dawnguard and among their enemies, and you'll make choices that will shape the fate of Skyrim. The Dawnguard questline also introduces new locations to explore, including the ancestral home of the Volkihar vampires, a massive and imposing castle located on a remote island. Exploring these new locations is a treat in itself, offering unique environments, challenging encounters, and valuable loot. As a member of the Dawnguard, you'll also have access to special training and abilities. You can learn new skills that enhance your combat prowess against vampires, such as the ability to turn undead or resist their magical attacks. You'll also have opportunities to recruit new members to the Dawnguard, bolstering their ranks and adding valuable allies to your cause. These recruits can accompany you on missions, providing extra firepower and support in battle.
Furthermore, the Dawnguard questline presents you with some significant choices that will impact the story and your character's development. One of the most important decisions you'll face is whether to embrace your own vampiric powers or remain a staunch opponent of the undead. This choice will have far-reaching consequences, affecting your relationships with other characters, your abilities, and the overall direction of the questline. Ultimately, joining the Dawnguard is a fantastic way to enhance your Skyrim experience. It offers a compelling storyline, challenging quests, powerful gear, and a unique perspective on the world of Tamriel. Whether you're a seasoned Skyrim veteran or a newcomer to the game, the Dawnguard provides hours of engaging gameplay and a chance to become a true hero in the fight against darkness. So, embrace your destiny as a vampire hunter, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure!
Conclusion: Embrace the Hunt!
Joining the Dawnguard in Skyrim is a rewarding experience, adding depth and excitement to an already incredible game. From locating Fort Dawnguard to completing the questline and reaping the benefits of membership, you're in for a wild ride. You'll face formidable foes, explore new locations, and make choices that shape the fate of Skyrim. So, grab your gear, sharpen your blades, and prepare to embrace the hunt. The vampires are out there, and it's up to you to stop them. Good luck, and may the light of the sun guide your way!
