New Spells & Powers (Dawnguard)
The Dawnguard DLC introduces a host of new spells and powers, primarily focused on vampiric abilities, light-based magic, and the unique powers granted by the Volkihar vampires and the Dawnguard themselves. These additions offer new ways to approach combat, exploration, and character development, especially for those embracing or opposing the vampire threat.
If you choose to join the Volkihar vampires, you will gain access to potent vampiric spells and powers. These include enhanced vampiric drain, the ability to summon gargoyles, and the powerful Vampire Lord form. Conversely, siding with the Dawnguard grants access to new crossbows, specialized bolts, and unique spells and powers focused on combating the undead.
Vampire Lord Powers and Spells:
Upon becoming a Vampire Lord, you gain access to a unique skill tree and a set of powerful abilities:
- Vampire's Sight: Enhances vision in darkness.
- Vampiric Drain (Enhanced): Drains health from enemies.
- Summon Gargoyle: Summons a loyal Gargoyle to fight for you.
- Vampire's Dodge: A quick dash to evade attacks.
- Mist Form: Turns you into a cloud of mist, making you invulnerable and allowing for quick escapes.
- Corpse Curse: A powerful spell that turns enemies into undead thralls.
- Blood Scourge: A passive ability that makes you immune to diseases and poisons.
Dawnguard Spells and Abilities:
The Dawnguard offers a different set of abilities, often focused on light and anti-undead combat:
- Sunhallowed/All Hallowed Arrows: Special bolts for crossbows that deal extra damage to undead.
- Turn Undead: A powerful spell that causes undead enemies to flee.
- Close Wounds (Enhanced): A more potent healing spell.
- Summon Spectral Warhound: Summons a spectral hound to aid you.
- Detect Life/Dead: Enhanced versions of existing spells.
Acquiring New Spells and Powers:
- Quest Progression: Many of the most sificant powers, like Vampire Lord or Serana's unique abilities, are gained by progressing through the Dawnguard main questline.
- Spell Tomes: New spell tomes for various schools of magic can be found in Dawnguard-specific locations or purchased from specific vendors.
- Vampire Lord Skill Tree: As a Vampire Lord, you gain 'Vampire Perk Points' by feeding on sleeping NPCs or by killing enemies. These points are used to unlock new abilities within the Vampire Lord menu.
- Dawnguard Vendors: Certain Dawnguard members, like Sorine Jurard, may sell unique spells or offer training.
Notable Spells and Powers:
| Spell/Power Name | School | Effect | Acquisition Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vampire Lord Form | Alteration (Passive) | Transforms into a powerful vampire | Join the Volkihar vampires |
| Summon Gargoyle | Conjuration | Summons a Gargoyle | Vampire Lord Perk Tree |
| Sunhallowed Arrows | Archery (Bolt Type) | Bonus damage vs. undead | Dawnguard questline / Sorine Jurard |
| Turn Undead | Restoration | Causes undead to flee | Dawnguard questline / Spell Tome |
| Soul Tear (Shout) | Shout | Damages and reanimates foes | Dawnguard questline |
Tips for Using New Dawnguard Abilities:
- Embrace Your Choice: Whether you become a vampire or join the Dawnguard, fully invest in the associated abilities for a unique playthrough.
- Strategic Use of Vampire Lord: Use Vampire Lord form for tough fights, but be mindful of the sun's effects on your health.
- Crossbow Mastery: If you choose the Dawnguard path, invest in archery and utilize the powerful crossbows and specialized bolts.
- Exploit Weaknesses: Use anti-undead spells and arrows against vampires and other undead foes.
The Dawnguard DLC offers a sificant expansion of magical and supernatural abilities, allowing for deeply specialized character builds and engaging new questlines.