Swords: Best Early Game Blades
In the early hours of The Elder Scrolls VI, a reliable sword can be your most trusted companion. While legendary artifacts and enchanted blades will become available later, focusing on acquiring and mastering a few solid early-game swords will sificantly smooth your progression through the initial quests and wilderness exploration. Look for weapons that offer a good balance of damage and speed.
The Iron Sword is the most common and readily available option. While its base damage is modest, you'll find plenty of them on fallen bandits and in early dungeons. Keep an eye out for any with minor enchantments, such as a small bonus to fire or frost damage, as these can provide a crucial edge against early-game enemies.
As you venture further, you might come across Steel Swords. These offer a noticeable step up in raw damage compared to iron, making them a worthwhile upgrade. They are still relatively common and can be found in most bandit camps and settlements. Prioritize upgrading your smithing skill to improve these weapons further.
Don't underestimate the value of Elven Swords if you happen upon them early. While they might seem more advanced, they can sometimes be found in loot caches or as quest rewards. Elven swords typically boast higher base damage and a slightly faster swing speed than steel, making them excellent choices for a more aggressive early-game combatant.
Consider the weight and reach of your chosen sword. One-handed swords are excellent for maintaining mobility and allowing you to use a shield for defense. Their quick attack animations are ideal for exploiting openings and interrupting enemy attacks. Practice your power attacks and timed strikes to maximize your damage output with these versatile blades.
Finally, always be on the lookout for any swords with even minor magical properties. A sword that deals an extra 5 points of shock damage can be the difference between victory and defeat against a tougher foe. Even common enchantments like Absorb Stamina can be incredibly useful for maintaining your combat effectiveness in prolonged engagements.