Uncover the Hidden Secrets: Unraveling the Mysteries of Skyrim's Legendary Orc Strongholds

In The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim, each region, known as a "hold," has its own capital along with numerous smaller farms and settlements. Among these settlements are orc strongholds, which function under their own distinct regulations.

Unless the player character, known as the Dragonborn, belongs to the orc race, they will not gain immediate access to orc strongholds. Instead, players must achieve the status of Blood-Kin in order to obtain permission to enter these strongholds and interact with the orc inhabitants. This guide outlines the locations of the four strongholds in Skyrim and provides details on the requirements to become Blood-Kin.

Every Orc Stronghold Location

Dushnikh Yal is a stronghold in the Reach, the western part of Skyrim. Head southeast from Markarth to find it.

Largashbur, situated in the Rift in the southeastern area of Skyrim, is a formidable stronghold. To locate it, simply proceed along the road south of the lake near Riften until the distinctive orc stronghold icon emerges on the compass. Be prepared to engage in combat with giants, for upon the player's arrival, an assault upon the stronghold shall ensue.

Mor Khazgur is on the border between the Reach and Haafingar. Players can reach it by following the mountains north of Markarth or traveling far to the west of Solitude.

Narzulbur is in Eastmarch. It's on the eastern edge of the map, but it's a short trip southeast of Windhelm.

How to Become Blood-Kin of the Orcs

Upon initial contact with an orc stronghold, players will be greeted with hostility from its inhabitants. While entering the stronghold poses no immediate threat, engaging in conversation with the orcs proves futile as the Dragonborn receives no response. Additionally, any attempts to initiate trade with merchants are met with refusal. It is essential to note that these interactions solely pertain to non-orc Dragonborn, as orcs exhibit amicable behavior towards individuals of their own kind.

To overcome this issue, players need to attain the status of Blood-Kin with the Orcs. This can be achieved by successfully undertaking a quest offered by an orc. While there may not be abundant orc quest-givers in Skyrim, the majority of them can ensure players receive a warm reception within orc strongholds.

Some of the quests vary in difficulty. To pursue the most cost-effective option, players can head to Shor's Stone, collect iron ore, and deliver it to Grogmar. On the other hand, for those seeking a speedy resolution, aiding Moth is the quickest choice (assuming they can locate a daedra heart). The most straightforward path lies with Gularzob, as players will always receive this quest immediately after eliminating the giant threat at Largashbur and approaching the main gate.

What to Do in an Orc Stronghold

Though not as grand as the hold capitals, the orc strongholds boast a decent number of merchants and helpful NPCs. Dushnikh Yal, Mor Khazgur, and Narzulbur each feature an apothecary and a blacksmith. While Largashbur lacks merchants, it compensates with the possibility of recruiting three followers. Furthermore, Largashbur houses an Illusion trainer, Dushnikh Yal offers training in One-Handed and Heavy Armor, and Mor Khazgur provides a Block trainer.

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Another option to consider is mining orichalcum, the essential ore for crafting orc weapons and armor. Mor Khazgur boasts a dedicated mining site within the stone mountain behind the stronghold, while Gloombound Mine is accessible by crossing a rope bridge located behind Narzulbur. Players have the choice to sell the orichalcum ore to an orc in exchange for money or utilize the forges in town to create their own personalized items.

Additionally, a popular activity offered in most strongholds is engaging in hand-to-hand combat with the local chieftain. The wager is consistently set at 100 gold, but contestants are limited to fighting solely with their bare fists. However, participants are allowed to retain their armor and consume healing potions during the brawl, making victory quite achievable. Even in the event of losing, reaching zero hit points will promptly end the fight without affecting the overall game.

Players should be aware that orcs have their own unique beliefs when it comes to crime and punishment. The bounties for committing crimes are the same in orc strongholds as they are in regular towns; however, any orc has the ability to apprehend the player, without needing to notify a guard. Once an orc confronts the player, the only choices available are to pay the fine or engage in combat with the orc. If an orc in one stronghold becomes hostile, every orc in every stronghold will also become hostile. Players may attempt to sheathe their weapons as a sign of surrender, similar to dealing with guards, although this strategy is not always effective. The most advisable course of action for players is to refrain from causing harm to any stronghold orcs and promptly pay any bounties that they demand.

Additionally, it should be noted that the bounty imposed by orcs is distinct from any bounties enforced by the local authorities. Players have the option to seek refuge in Largashbur, even if they have a bounty within the Rift. However, if players choose to steal from the orcs in Largashbur, they will then be obligated to provide payment in either gold or blood to every orc in every stronghold.

The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim is available now on PC, PS3, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox 360, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.