In comparing the advancements made in Skyrim over its predecessor, one can’t overlook the remarkable improvements in both leveling and combat systems. Skyrim granted players immense freedom in crafting character builds, abandoning the previous reliance on major and minor skills for leveling. Instead, any skill advancement contributed to the experience points pool. Despite this elegant system, players often gravitated towards a specific combat style for various reasons.
This prevalent approach, known as the Stealth Archer build, involves prioritizing Archery and Stealth while neglecting other skill trees like magic and heavy weaponry. The success of the Stealth Archer strategy inadvertently became a humorous stereotype within the player community. If The Elder Scrolls 6 wants to maintain a diverse array of viable character builds, it’s crucial to examine why this archetype became so dominant and ensure it doesn’t overshadow other playstyles.
One of the fundamental reasons the Stealth Archer build thrived in Skyrim was its effectiveness against dragons. Before reaching certain milestones in the main storyline, archers had a tactical advantage in taking down the airborne beasts, encouraging more frequent use of the bow and stealth techniques. Consequently, players often fell into the Stealth Archer role organically rather than by deliberate choice.
Adding to its appeal is the power of bows, such as the formidable Auriel’s Bow in the Dawnguard expansion, which became essential for players focusing on archery. Furthermore, arrows in Skyrim had no weight limit and were seldom in short supply. This build was not only convenient but effective across all difficulty levels, and players could unlock its perks early in the game. Even those with intentions to explore other builds sometimes defaulted to Stealth Archer due to its evident efficiency.
Once players are cognizant of how easy it is to slip into the Stealth Archer mold, it can be challenging to resist. To diversify viable builds in The Elder Scrolls 6, enhancing spellcasting and overall combat mechanics is essential. While stealth and archery in Skyrim improved significantly from Oblivion, spellcasting didn’t receive the same attention, becoming unwieldy and simplistic.
Improving enemy AI and balancing combat can further dissuade reliance on the Stealth Archer. More intelligent adversaries that react to being sniped by arrows, or can detect stealthy intrusions, will push players towards using varied builds. Encouraging the use of different magical schools and skills should be part of this evolution. In Oblivion, the ability to wield magic while dual-wielding weapons provided a more dynamic gameplay option, one that would be a welcome reintroduction in The Elder Scrolls 6, motivating players to diversify their skill investments.
### Behind the Popularity of the Stealth Archer in Skyrim
As The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim recently celebrated a decade of gaming achievement, it’s important to reflect on what made certain gameplay elements so popular. Recognized with over 200 Game of the Year awards, Skyrim’s open-world experience revolutionized the genre, allowing players unparalleled freedom in crafting their own adventures. Its capability to support a wide array of character types remains one of its strengths, a hallmark of the celebrated Elder Scrolls series. However, with the anticipated Elder Scrolls 6 on the horizon, developers have a chance to expand on this legacy by refining balance and enriching character-building possibilities to offer an even richer fantasy role-playing experience.
