The Ultimate Guide: Making the Right Choice in Skyrim - Imperials or Stormcloaks?

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Downsides of the Imperials

Why Should I Join The Stormcloaks?

Downsides of the Stormcloaks

What If You Don't Choose Stormcloaks or Imperials?

So, Should You Pick The Imperials Or The Stormcloaks?

Skyrim players have long debated whether to align with the Imperials or the Stormcloaks ever since the game's release over a decade ago. The Imperials, responsible for nearly executing the player, and the Stormcloaks, known for their less bureaucratic nature, have both engaged in morally ambiguous actions. Upon completing the Civil War questline, players either liberate Skyrim from Imperial rule or restore the Empire's authority in the Nordic province by eliminating Ulfric. Both factions have their supporters who passionately defend their chosen alliance, despite both the Imperials and Stormcloaks having their fair share of advantages and drawbacks.

Updated June 30, 2023 by Erik Petrovich: When it comes to making choices in games, the true complexity often goes unnoticed. For instance, the decision between joining either the Stormcloaks or the Imperials in the civil war questline of Skyrim is not as straightforward as it seems. This dilemma leaves players torn, as it effectively closes off a significant portion of the game if they progress beyond a certain point. Determining which faction is superior, the Imperials or the Stormcloaks, hinges on various factors. Read on to discover the advantages and disadvantages of aligning with either the Stormcloaks or the Imperials, as well as the consequences of not taking a side in Skyrim.

Why Should I Join The Empire?

The Empire is More Inclusive

Spanning the expanse of Tamriel, the Empire holds dominion over vast territories, exerting its influence across diverse cultures that populate the continent. Despite bureaucratic Imperials grappling with numerous challenges, their tendency to embrace non-human races surpasses the prejudices prevalent elsewhere. This open-mindedness is a testament to the fusion of cultures within the Empire, a trait that resonates within the ranks of the Legion.

The Empire is Able To Take On The Aldmeri Dominion

Although the Civil War in Skyrim draws most of the attention when discussing conflicts, it is important to note that the Stormcloaks are not the only imminent threat that the Empire is facing. The White-Gold Concordat, which was signed as a temporary peace treaty between the Empire and the Aldmeri Dominion, will eventually come to an end, leading to the resumption of the Great War of the Fourth Era. By reclaiming Skyrim for the Empire, they can present a stronger and more united front against the Elven aggressors.

You Don't Have To Attack Whiterun

In Elder Scrolls games, quests and stories significantly impact the player's experience by influencing the outcomes of their choices. The essence of the Stormcloak and Imperial questlines revolves around reclaiming territories controlled by the opposing faction. Eventually, these quests culminate in a climactic confrontation, either in Solitude or Windhelm.

Downsides of the Imperials

When it comes to the storyline and quests presented to players, it's a tough decision. However, Imperials have a slight advantage since they don't require players to assault Whiterun, which is widely considered as the most cherished city in both Skyrim and all Elder Scrolls games.

Bureaucracy Can Be Uncaring

In Skyrim, there come pivotal moments where the decision of siding with either the Stormcloak rebels or the Imperial Legion becomes vastly more straightforward as a consequence of the player's head, or an innocent individual's head, being threatened on the executioner's block.

At the outset of the game, it is the Imperials who fail to verify the player's name on the list (which it isn't) and almost proceed with executing the Dragonborn. Furthermore, in the future, within the secure confines of Solitude, a completely innocent individual endures a public beheading, creating a stark contrast in the bustling town square.

Imperials Lack Personality In More Ways Than One

While Stormcloak cities are known for their beautiful locations, Imperial cities also have their own charm. Solitude, being the Empire's main stronghold in the province, exemplifies this. Other Imperial-controlled settlements share the same attention to architecture, efficient use of space, and grandeur albeit on a smaller scale. However, over time, they can start to feel a bit repetitive. Additionally, the Empire's sense of fashion leaves much to be desired.

The issue with Imperial design lies in its lack of personality. The Empire prioritizes functionality over aesthetics when it comes to designing settlements and equipment. Although their architecture is undoubtedly advanced, it pales in comparison to the striking tar pits south of Windhelm or the enchanting natural beauty that surrounds Riften.

Why Should I Join The Stormcloaks?

More Interesting/Unique Characters

Although the Imperial Legion doesn't mandate the assassination of Jarl Balgruuf, their leadership and significant NPCs lack the allure and intrigue found in other characters within the Elder Scrolls games. General Tullius and the remaining high-ranking members of the Legion are narrowly portrayed as military figures, while the Stormcloak leadership teems with captivating individuality and rich background lore.

It's hard to forget the raspy, terrifying voice and mannerisms of the warrior Galmar Stone-Fist, and Yrsarald Thrice-Pierced is as mysterious as he is imposing.

Aesthetics and Setting

When it comes to the aesthetics of their surroundings, the Stormcloaks unquestionably hold the advantage. Their cities, towns, and major settlements are ingeniously integrated within the majestic mountains, enveloped by untouched wilderness. Be it the biting blizzards of Windhelm or the tranquil waters of Riften, each location provides a distinctive atmosphere.

Ulfric's Ambition Isn't Without Cause

Despite Ulfric Stormcloak's flaws, he becomes a more comprehensible character upon reading the Thalmor Dossier on his torture during the Thalmor Embassy quest. His questionable methods and lack of respect towards Elven and bestial races may be bothersome, but one can see that his ultimate goal is not unjustified considering his perspective and past experiences.

Downsides of the Stormcloaks

Intolerance Towards Non-Nords

The Stormcloaks appear to harbor animosity towards any race other than the Nord. Although their disdain for Elves is comprehensible, they regard Imperials and Bretons as inferior breeds of mankind. Consequently, their military force predominantly comprises of Nords. Depending on your character's race, aligning with either faction adheres more closely to the established lore.

Lack of Order

One significant drawback of Stormcloak settlements is their relatively weak enforcement of the Rule of Law and the absence of a strong authoritative system to govern the citizens. Riften serves as a prime illustration of the disarray and decline that can befall a Stormcloak city.

Compared to a typical Imperial city or town, Riften lacks a certain sense of order. However, it is precisely this lack of order that gives the place a more authentic and unfiltered atmosphere, providing a realistic representation of how people adapt to the harsh environments commonly found in Stormcloak territory.

Unable To Fight Larger Threats

The ban on Talos worship, as stipulated in the White-Gold Concordat, served as the catalyst for the Stormcloak Rebellion. Nonetheless, should the Stormcloaks triumph in the Civil War and seize control of Skyrim, they will find themselves grossly ill-equipped to face the highly organized and formidable Aldmeri Dominion.

A mere assemblage of driven Nords pales in comparison to the immense might that the Aldmeri Dominion wields – and there are those who speculate that the Aldmeri deliberately orchestrated the initiation of the Civil War by the Stormcloaks in order to facilitate their own takeover of the region.

What If You Don't Choose Stormcloaks or Imperials?

Content:

Due to Skyrim's open-ended gameplay, players are free to progress in the game without ever having to make a decision between siding with the Stormcloaks or the Imperials. This questline is considered a side quest and can be completely omitted while pursuing the main quest involving Alduin.

Despite the player's choice to skip this questline, the world within the game will still depict an ongoing war between the two factions. Progress is halted until the player reaches the negotiation table portion of the main quest, where they can choose a method to establish a temporary peace treaty. Not having a vested interest in either side's claim can make decision-making easier for the Dragonborn.

So, Should You Pick The Imperials Or The Stormcloaks?

Not opting for either Stormcloaks or Imperials comes with minimal consequences, mainly being deprived of the distinctive armors and quest rewards offered by each side. The installation of the Special Edition introduces some exceptionally impressive armors accessible from both factions, hence it is advisable to eventually make a decisive choice. Failing to do so will result in missing out on an entire storyline branch in the realm of Skyrim.

Ultimately, the decision to align oneself with the Imperials or the Stormcloaks is a personal one, influenced by the desired path for one's character. For Nords, joining the Stormcloaks offers a sense of belonging, granted they share the faction's perspective on the Empire. On the other hand, non-Nord races will find the Imperials extending a warm welcome, as long as they are willing to cede some authority to the Empire.

Choose the Imperial race if you wish to embody a character hailing from a location other than Skyrim, as it would be illogical to engage in battles in service of a faction that fundamentally excludes you.

Opt for the Stormcloak faction if you firmly believe that the Empire lacks the authority to dictate the actions and freedoms of the residents of Skyrim, particularly if you identify as a Nord.

Playing as a High Elf in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Special Edition, it aligns with the lore to join the Stormcloak Rebellion. Thalmor documents suggest that they support the Stormcloaks in their mission to overthrow the Empire, ultimately benefiting the Aldmeri Dominion's future dominance. The game can be enjoyed on PC, PlayStation 4 and 5, as well as Xbox One and Series X|S.