Embark on a new adventure with the Dragonborn DLC and explore the volcanic island of Solstheim. This rugged land, once part of Morrowind, is now home to unique creatures, ancient ruins, and a compelling storyline involving the first Dragonborn, Miraak. Prepare for a challenging and rewarding exploration.
Getting to Solstheim
To reach Solstheim, you must first complete the quest 'The Way of the Voice' in Skyrim. After this, you will be approached by cultists who will initiate the Dragonborn main questline. They will attack you, and after defeating them, you can find a note on their bodies that will direct you to the Northwatch Keep. From there, you can take a boat to Solstheim from the docks in Windhelm.
Key Locations on Solstheim
Raven Rock
The primary settlement on Solstheim, Raven Rock is a large city built around a mine. It's home to the local government, merchants, and various quest givers. It serves as your main hub for supplies and information.
Skaal Village
A secluded village inhabited by the Skaal, a reclusive tribe of Nords who live in harmony with nature. They have unique traditions and are wary of outsiders. Their village is a peaceful sanctuary.
Tel Mithryn
A unique settlement built on giant mushroom stalks, ruled by the powerful mage Neloth. This location is central to many quests and offers access to unique magical items and services.
Black Market
A hidden trading post where you can find rare and often illicit goods. It's a good place to sell stolen items or acquire unique crafting materials.
Apocrypha
The realm of the Daedric Prince Hermaeus Mora. This is where the main questline of Dragonborn largely takes place. Apocrypha is a labyrinth of books, tentacles, and dark magic, filled with dangerous enemies and challenging puzzles.
Dungeons and Ruins
Solstheim is dotted with numerous dungeons, Nordic ruins, and Dwemer ruins, each containing unique enemies, loot, and lore:
- Kolbjorn Barrow: A challenging dungeon that requires multiple visits to clear out its inhabitants.
- White Ridge Barrow: Home to a powerful spider and a unique bear mount.
- Fahlbtharz: A Dwemer ruin with unique puzzles and enemies.
- Bloodskal Barrow: Features a unique sword-based puzzle.
New Creatures and Enemies
Solstheim introduces several new threats:
- Ash Spawn: Creatures born from the volcanic ash, resistant to fire.
- Riekling: Small, goblin-like creatures that can be both a nuisance and a threat.
- Seekers and Lurkers: Eldritch horrors found in Apocrypha, wielding powerful magic.
- Werebears: A more powerful variant of bears, found in certain areas.
New Crafting and Enchanting
Solstheim offers new crafting opportunities:
- Black Books: These ancient tomes found throughout Solstheim grant powerful, permanent abilities or perks when read in Apocrypha.
- Dragon Aspect Shout: A powerful shout learned through the main quest, mimicking the power of a dragon.
- New Materials: Such as Stalhrim (a unique frost-infused ore) and various alchemy ingredients.
The Main Questline: Miraak
The Dragonborn DLC's main quest revolves around Miraak, the first Dragonborn, who seeks to return to Tamriel and enslave its inhabitants. You must journey to Solstheim, learn new shouts, delve into Apocrypha, and ultimately confront Miraak to prevent his return.
Exploration Tips for Solstheim
- Be Prepared: Solstheim is a dangerous place. Ensure you have good gear and plenty of potions before venturing out.
- Talk to Everyone: NPCs in Raven Rock and Skaal Village offer numerous quests and valuable information.
- Invest in Frost Resistance: The climate is harsh, and many enemies utilize frost-based attacks.
- Explore the Ruins: The dungeons and ruins of Solstheim hold some of the best loot and lore.
- Don't Neglect Black Books: These are incredibly powerful and offer unique advantages.