Highlights
Skyrim
NPCs offer players a variety of conversations and quests, making them curious and engaging characters.
Merchants like Belethor have funny lines and are among the most charismatic NPCs in
Skyrim
, while Brynjolf of the Thieves Guild is particularly charismatic and skilled at manipulating others.
The snowy landscape of The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim is filled with a diverse cast of characters waiting to be discovered by players. It is up to the players to initiate conversations with these non-playable characters (NPCs) and engage in a wide array of conversations and quests. Each NPC in Skyrim possesses their own unique personality and backstory, making them highly intriguing to players who are naturally curious.
Interestingly, these NPCs are not hesitant to engage in deep conversations with the Dragonborn, showcasing their charming charisma. Their ability to captivate the player's interest often results in players willingly carrying out their requests or even taking time away from gameplay to chat. As a result, these characters are amongst the most charismatic in the entire game.
8 Any Guard In Skyrim
Starting with a simple introduction, the typical guard in Skyrim is not only a highly memorable NPC in the game, but also the one who engages in the most conversations with the player. These individuals, born and raised in Skyrim, can be found in every town, diligently protecting the inhabitants and providing valuable information to someone like the Dragonborn.
Occasionally, they may adopt a defensive stance, cautioning thieves to refrain from touching anything or playfully mentioning the appearance of fur around the player's ears if they happen to be a werewolf. However, in general, guards are always eager to engage in a conversation with a brave adventurer like the player.
7 M'aiq The Liar
M'aiq the Liar, a beloved recurring character in The Elder Scrolls franchise, can frequently be encountered in different locations across the vast wilderness of Skyrim. Similar to the guards, he doesn't engage in lengthy conversations, but his unparalleled charisma shines through his witty remarks, which often reference other games or narrate his past adventures.
This peculiar Khajiit has the power to capture the attention of the Dragonborn, prompting them to halt whatever they are doing when they come across him. Whether engaged in combat with a Frostbite Spider or dressed as a monk, the player is instinctively compelled to lend a helping hand to this feline before indulging in a few minutes of conversation until M'aiq grows weary of their presence.
6 Jarl Balgruuf
Jarl Balgruuf is often the first Jarl players meet when following Skyrim's main story and heading to Whiterun as their initial location. With his involvement in both the main story and the civil war quest line, players are bound to cross paths with Balgruuf multiple times.
Being a character of significant influence, Balgruuf's charisma shines through as his city is the sole one in all of Skyrim that has chosen to remain neutral amidst the ongoing war. While others align themselves with either the Empire or the Stormcloaks, Balgruuf manages to maintain his neutrality. To aid him in selecting a side in the imminent war, players must challenge this Jarl's charisma.
5 Serana
When playing the Dawnguard DLC, players will encounter Serana, a vampire who can become a follower and ally of the Dragonborn. Despite being a vampire, players need not worry about her harming them or thirsting for their blood. In fact, she views the player as a savior of the undead.
After being trapped for centuries, Serana proves to be a great conversationalist as she grows closer to the player throughout the DLC's main storyline. Like other followers, she will also share her thoughts on the various places the Dragonborn visits. Serana stands out from other followers due to her ability to react to her surroundings, which only enhances her charm.
4 Paarthurnax
Tasked with defeating the Dragons that have returned to Skyrim, the player, as the Dragonborn, seeks the aid of the Blades, an Order dedicated to protecting Tamriel and the Empire. The Blades urge the player to eliminate every dragon, even the friendly Paarthurnax. However, early in the main story, the player realizes the importance of Paarthurnax's knowledge in defeating Alduin and must seek his help. After slaying their ultimate foe, the final quest is to return and defeat Paarthurnax. Many players choose to reject this quest, as they are drawn to the charisma and peaceful nature of this ancient dragon, unlike the others encountered.
3 Belethor
Merchants in the game are known for their charisma, and players looking for good deals or selling their own items will benefit from having a high speech skill. Among all the merchants, Belethor, the owner of Belethor's Goods in Whiterun, stands out as one of the best.
In addition to offering the usual services, Belethor is known for his humorous lines, such as his memorable statement that everything is for sale, and he would even sell his sister if he had one. While some guards may see him as untrustworthy, many players find the charm in this charismatic Breton.
2 Ralof
When players first open their eyes in the game, they are greeted with the words "Hey, you, you're finally awake." These are spoken by Ralof, a member of the Stormcloaks in Skyrim. Despite his allegiance, Ralof shows nothing but kindness to the player as they begin their journey. He sits beside them in a cart, ready to face whatever lies ahead.
If players choose to follow Ralof into the keep during the tutorial and continue on to Riverwood together, they will have the opportunity to learn more about this blonde soldier. Ralof has plenty to share with players who are willing to listen and take the time to understand.
1 Brynjolf
Without surprise, Brynjolf, a member of the Thieves Guild, stands out as the most charismatic character among all the figures in Skyrim. When players visit Riften, they will come across Brynjolf in the tavern. With his charm, he convinces the player to engage in some thieving activities.
However, Brynjolf's talent for charisma does not end there. In this particular job, he plans to serve as a distraction. Through the dialogue, it becomes evident that he frequently employs this scam, enticing unsuspecting individuals in Riften to purchase seemingly valuable items only to end up being robbed once again.
Skyrim is available now for Nintendo Switch, PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and some legacy consoles.