What to play: Skyrim

It is the 201st year of the Fourth Era… and the province of Skyrim is in chaos.

High King Torygg has been murdered by the Jarl of Winterhold, Ulfric Stormcloak, setting in motion a civil war between the empire of Tamriel and Ulric’s rebels, the Stormcloaks.

But the civil war is the least of the old kingdom’s problems, for rumours have spread across the land that dragons have returned, and the prophesised revenge of the worldeater Alduin is close.

There is one, however, who can stop the oncoming plight of the realm. A person that can steal and harness the power of dragons. Legend describes them to be the ultimate dragon slayer, and the foretold saviour of the realm.

The mages of the world call them the ‘Thu’um.’

The dragons call them ‘Dovahkiin.’

But the people of Skyrim call them…

Dragonborn.

Skyrim is probably one the most famous fantasy sandbox games ever made. A game so old that it was actually made to be fun! Want to cast a lightning storm spell and not suffer any consequences? Become the monster hunter of your dreams? Enter different planes of existence and get gifts from literal gods??? SIGN ME UP!

The cold mountains of Skyrim host many challenges and rewards fit for any hero, or sunderer of worlds, to reap. And what use is a magic war-torn realm without a menagerie of characters to choose from, such as the reptilian Argonians, the high Thalmor and the native Nords? Each race has its own unique skill set, including magic enhancement, heightened battle damage and water breathing. Additionally, in Skyrim you are not alone. Skyrim is full of characters, each with their own stories vital to the growth of your legend.

Enter different planes of existence and get gifts from literal gods??? SIGN ME UP!

This may sound all lovely, but remember the world is full of monsters. From bloodthirsty Frost trolls to unflinching Dwemer constructs. Thankfully, there is refugee from these horrors, in the form of the nine holds of Skyrim. Each hold is unique, from the Capital of Solitude with its walls towering high, the Mage School of Winterhold shunned by outsiders, to the Dwarven stronghold of Morthal. Though at war with each other, they are generally places of safety and all of them have taverns!

The world is your oyster! Just try not to destroy it along the way.

Thomas C, Year 10