Skyrim allows you to marry certain NPCs and adopt up to two children (with the Hearthfire DLC). These social mechanics offer role-playing opportunities and some minor in-game benefits.
Marriage:
To get married, you must wear an Amulet of Mara (found or purchased from Maramal in Riften) and speak to an eligible NPC who has a high disposition towards you (usually by completing a quest for them). Once married, your spouse will open a shop, providing a daily income of 100 gold, and can cook you a meal once a day that provides a temporary buff. You can also choose to live in their home or your own.
Adoption (Hearthfire DLC):
With the Hearthfire DLC, you can adopt up to two children. You'll need a house with a children's bedroom (either a purchased house or a custom-built Hearthfire home). Children can be adopted from Honorhall Orphanage in Riften or found as beggars in various cities. Adopted children will give you gifts, ask for gold, and play with pets you bring home. They add a touch of domesticity to your Dragonborn's life.
Benefits:
- Spouse: Daily gold, home-cooked meals, and a place to sleep with the 'Lover's Comfort' bonus (increased skill learning rate).
- Children: Gifts, a sense of family, and a place to store pets.
Marriage and adoption are entirely optional but add a layer of personal connection to the world of Skyrim.