Skyrim SE Modded Gameplay: The Journey of a Struggling Merchant

In the vast landscape of Tamriel, adventurers face countless challenges, but what if your path didn’t involve combat or intense battles? In this guide, we’ll explore a unique modded gameplay experience in Skyrim Special Edition (SE) centered around the life of a struggling merchant. This approach offers a fresh perspective on how to engage with the game while avoiding the usual heavy combat scenarios.

Setting the Scene

Imagine a character who lacks combat skills and magical prowess, relying instead on charisma and trading. This modded playthrough is designed to clear the main quest without relying on typical combat mechanics. By indulging in a merchant’s journey, players can experience the intricate economics of Skyrim, bartering with NPCs and gathering unique items, all while navigating the challenges life throws their way.

Character Creation

Start by creating a character that embodies the merchant archetype. Consider traits that boost speech and barter abilities but deliberately avoid anything that enhances combat skills. You can name your character something fun and relatable, like “TradeMaster Tess” or “BargainBob.”

To augment this experience, consider utilizing mods that limit combat effectiveness. For example, mods can reduce melee and ranged damage to make engaging in fights feel futile. While you’re allowed to engage in combat, your character’s strength lies in their trading acumen. You’ll still have shouts at your disposal, which can provide unique advantages in various situations without depending on physical combat.

Mod Suggestions

To enhance your gameplay and immerse yourself in the merchant lifestyle, consider installing the following mods:

1. Simple Hunting Overhaul: This mod adds depth to the hunting aspect of Skyrim. By purchasing a hunting license, you’ll be able to gather resources needed for crafting and trading while respecting the environment. This keeps the gameplay aligned with your merchant focus.

2. Unique Item Recovery: Engage in quests that focus on recovering unique items, which can often command high prices. This aligns perfectly with your merchant goals and keeps the gameplay interesting.

3. LoTD (Legacy of the Dragonborn): This mod introduces a museum where recovered artifacts can be displayed. It’s more than just a trading experience; as you collect items, your contributions to the museum can provide prestige and additional quests, making your merchant journey more rewarding.

4. VIGILANT Unslaad: Players can choose to keep this mod in their gameplay, although it does not directly align with the merchant path. It adds atmospheric layers to the Skyrim experience, reshaping the world’s challenges.

Strategic Gameplay

1. Starting as a Low-Level Merchant: As you begin, focus on small towns like Riverwood or Ivarstead. These locations have less competition and allow you to establish a customer base. Look for quests that provide opportunities for trading without combat.

2. Resource Gathering: Use your hunting license to gather materials from the wild. Not only does this provide resources for crafting potions and items to sell, but it can also yield unique items useful for quests.

3. Building Relationships: Form alliances with NPCs and find ways to negotiate better deals. Watch out for merchants with goods you can sell at a higher price or those who offer quests advantageous to your trade.

4. Avoiding Combat: If trouble arises, don’t hesitate to use shouts strategically to escape or deter enemies. The key to your survival relies on avoiding combat altogether, so plan your trade routes to minimize risk.

The Challenge of Boredom

As you venture deeper into this playstyle, it’s crucial to keep things engaging for yourself. Take note of possible dull moments in the gameplay, such as repetitive trading or long travel times. Here, unique challenges like setting sales goals or competing in local trading fairs can inject excitement into routine gameplay.

If you find yourself losing interest, consider altering your approach. Introduce slight combat encounters, such as defending your inventory from bandits, but remember to keep your character’s strengths in mind.

Conclusion

Skyrim SE offers an expansive world where endless possibilities await. The life of a struggling merchant is one of resilience, creativity, and strategy. By embracing mods and focusing on trade, players can carve out an unconventional yet fulfilling path, stepping away from traditional combat dynamics while remaining fully immersed in the enchanting realm of Tamriel. Enjoy your journey, and happy trading!