The Ultimate Power of Choice in Skyrim Quests: Why The Elder Scrolls 6 Should Take Note

One of the defining characteristics of an exceptional RPG is the element of choice, where players are presented with multiple paths and have the freedom to select their desired route. Although certain paths may ultimately lead to the same outcome due to game design limitations, the availability of diverse options throughout the journey enhances the sense of gratification. This is particularly true when these choices are influenced by the player's prior efforts in the game. Skyrim showcases several instances of this, with Diplomatic Immunity serving as a remarkable example that should serve as inspiration for The Elder Scrolls 6.

Diplomatic Immunity serves as a timeless clandestine mission, consisting of various stages which involve preparatory tasks, attending a party, infiltrating the Thalmor Embassy, retrieving vital information, and making a daring escape. Each stage of this quest requires the player to make significant decisions based on their chosen class, race, and completed quests throughout the game.

The Choices Available in Diplomatic Immunity

After surrendering all their weapons and armor to Delphine on behalf of Malborn, the Last Dragonborn is invited to a lavish party at the Thalmor Embassy, where the most influential figures in Skyrim are in attendance. While the game offers an alternative for players who have rushed through the main quest without completing any side quests, this particular section of the game becomes much more enjoyable when the main quest is temporarily set aside. This is because the completion of side quests determines the presence of specific party guests and their willingness to assist in causing a distraction.

Various options are available, with Razelan unwittingly becoming the target in most cases. For instance, Jarl Igrod Ravencrone eagerly initiates a disturbance of sufficient magnitude that allows the Dragonborn to slip away unnoticed. Similarly, Thalmor Justicar Ondelmar, Vittoria Vici, and even Maven Black-Briar, if the player is the leader of the Thieves Guild, can all create distractions. Although all of these choices successfully lead the player to the same destination, each option adds entertainment value and replayability, effectively preventing the quest from becoming tedious or repetitive.

Lessons The Elder Scrolls 6 Needs to Take From Diplomatic Immunity

After separating from the group, the Dragonborn can choose to eliminate a Thalmor wizard and take their garments. This unique advantage is beneficial to Altmer, who can freely navigate the embassy without arousing suspicion, unlike other races who must maintain a cautious distance while in disguise. In the dungeon, various options exist for dealing with the captive, such as extracting information through torture, setting them free, or disregarding them entirely and simply examining the contents of the chest.

Once the necessary information is obtained, Malborn's cover is compromised, leading to their joint confinement in the dungeons. The Dragonborn has the opportunity to rescue Malborn and release any other prisoners held captive by the Thalmor. Following their successful escape, Malborn can be found seeking refuge either at the Thieves Guild headquarters or the New Gnisis Cornerclub in Windhelm. Their aim is to secure a safe passage to Morrowind, indicating that the consequences of the Diplomatic Immunity quest persist even after its formal conclusion.

Diplomatic Immunity stands out as one of the best quests in the main storyline of The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim - Anniversary Edition, despite its minimal combat. The quest offers a multitude of choices, making it a standout gem in the game. Unlike other parts of Skyrim where the world is often criticized for being unresponsive to the Dragonborn's actions, this quest goes the extra mile by bringing together characters with whom the Dragonborn has close relationships, and even provides the opportunity to form new alliances. The impact of choice in this quest is a valuable lesson that The Elder Scrolls 6 should take to heart more than Skyrim did. The game is currently available for Nintendo Switch, PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.