The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion
The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion

NPCs & Factions

Engage with NPCs and join factions in The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion to shape your journey, gain influence, and unlock unique quests across Cyrodiil.

NPCs & Factions

The world of Cyrodiil is populated by a diverse cast of Non-Player Characters (NPCs) and organized into various factions, each with their own motivations, quests, and influence. Interacting with NPCs and joining factions are fundamental aspects of the Oblivion experience, shaping your journey and unlocking new opportunities.

NPCs range from common citizens and merchants to quest givers and potential companions. Their disposition towards you can be influenced through dialogue options, persuasion, bribery, or completing quests for them. Building good relationships can lead to better prices, valuable information, and even assistance in combat.

Key factions in Oblivion include:

  • The Main Quest NPCs: Characters like Uriel Septim, Martin Septim, and Jauffre are central to the overarching narrative of closing the Oblivion gates and preventing the Daedric invasion.
  • The Fighters Guild: A mercenary organization offering quests focused on combat, monster hunting, and protecting settlements. Joining involves proving your combat prowess.
  • The Mages Guild: A scholarly institution dedicated to the study and practice of magic. Membership grants access to spells, alchemy ingredients, and quests involving magical research and artifacts.
  • The Thieves Guild: A clandestine organization of thieves and smugglers operating in the shadows. Joining requires demonstrating stealth and thieving skills, and quests often involve heists and illicit activities.
  • The Dark Brotherhood: A secretive guild of assassins bound by ancient rituals. Membership is gained through a dark ritual, and their quests involve carrying out assassinations.
  • The Arena: A gladiatorial combat arena in the Imperial City where you can fight for glory and gold.
  • The Knights of the Nine (DLC): A holy order dedicated to fighting evil, requiring You to reclaim ancient relics and prove their worthiness.

Each faction offers a unique questline that often culminates in sificant rewards and recognition within that group. Joining a faction can also provide access to specialized trainers, unique equipment, and safe houses. Your choices and actions within these factions can have far-reaching consequences on your reputation and the world around you.

Pay attention to the rumors you hear and the people you meet; many NPCs are tied to specific factions or quests. Building your reputation with different groups can open up new avenues of adventure and influence your standing in Cyrodiil.