Skyrim SE Modded Gameplay: Journey of a Struggling Merchant
Skyrim is often known for its epic adventures, daunting dragons, and fierce combat. However, what if you don’t want to slay dragons or defeat the fiercest of foes? What if your journey takes a different path, that of a merchant struggling to make ends meet in the harsh and unforgiving world of Tamriel? In this article, I’ll share my experience of embarking on a unique modded gameplay as a struggling merchant in Skyrim Special Edition.
Choosing the Merchant Role
In Skyrim, I decided to take on the role of a merchant — someone whose skills do not lie in combat or magic. Instead, my focus is on trade, bartering, and collecting unique items from the world around me. Although I don’t have combat prowess or magical talents, my aim is to complete the main quest as a merchant, showcasing that you can enjoy Skyrim in a completely different light.
Modding for Merchant Life
To enhance my experience as a merchant, I have installed several mods that tailor the gameplay according to this unique playstyle. For instance, I have restricted my ability to deal damage significantly. This means that while I can attack when absolutely necessary, my effectiveness in combat is nearly zero. This aspect of the mod not only enforces the merchant role but also creates new challenges. The combat is truly a last resort, and I rely on others to fight my battles.
Additionally, I retain the ability to use shouts. Utilizing this powerful skill not only aligns with the lore of Skyrim, but it also adds a strategic element to my merchant activities. I can use shouts to create diversions, escape sticky situations, or even influence NPCs for better deals. Moreover, I chose to mix in other mods like Simple Hunting Overhaul, which allows me to engage in hunting legally after purchasing hunting licenses, adding another dimension to the way I can gather goods for resale.
Exploring the Crafting System
As a merchant, it’s imperative to understand the crafting system in Skyrim. I’ve taken time to delve into various crafting options, such as alchemy and smithing. Although I decided against the “super extreme alchemy” mod that would allow me to craft powerful potions instantly, I still engage in a reasonable amount of potion crafting. This proves beneficial when I need to create items that will sell well or assist me in my adventures.
Smithing also plays a crucial role in my merchant journey. Collecting materials from defeated foes, I can forge basic weapons and armors to sell, ensuring that my inventory remains stocked with goods. The satisfaction of crafting something unique and then selling it for a profit adds an enjoyable mechanic to the gameplay.
Unique Quests and Adventures
Even a merchant has adventures to tell! I have decided to engage in unique quests that involve scavenging for specific items or hunting down rare treasures. These quests allow me to explore the enchanting world of Skyrim while still holding true to my merchant role. While I may not engage in fierce battles, the thrill of seeking out and collecting unique items and artifacts remains.
To keep things lively, I also encounter various random events in the world that lead to interesting outcomes. For example, I might stumble upon bandits who want my wares, compelling me to think quickly and use my shouts or rely on steely NPC allies who could help me fend off the attackers. Each new challenge offers an opportunity to prove my worth as a merchant in these trying conditions.
The Thrill of Trade
What truly brings Skyrim to life in my playthrough is the trading experience. Seeking alliances with other merchants, negotiating prices, and building a reputation as a reliable trader turns the tables for traditional gameplay. The interest comes not only from the quantity of gold amassed but also from the relationships formed within the trading community.
As I progress through the main quest, I find novel ways to intertwine my merchant background with the grand storyline of Skyrim. While some may find watching a merchant’s journey a bit monotonous, I assure you that every trade, every encounter, and every item collected serves to enrich the gameplay experience in a meaningful way.
Conclusion
Skyrim SE modded gameplay as a struggling merchant opens up endless possibilities for exploration and creativity. While it may lack the typical combat excitement, there’s a certain charm to navigating Tamriel’s markets, dealing in rare items, and witnessing the creative ways to engage with this immersive world. If you’re seeking a different experience within Skyrim, I highly recommend giving the life of a merchant a try. Equip your finest wares, take to the road, and discover the untold stories that await behind every trade!