Character Archetypes

Skyrim removed the distinction of classes and shoved the nigh complete freedom of character development in your hands. While this newfound freedom gives you a dizzying array of options, it can be difficult to decide where to start. After all, you can literally play as almost any character archetype, running the gamut from a traditional sword-and-board warrior to a sneaky battlemage.

Feel free to try out multiple play styles, as there is no penalty for building up points in a skill, even if you never use that skill again (No more worrying about getting that +5 Strength bonus). The actual specialization of your character doesn't happen until you start choosing Perks, so these are where you have to start to do some planning.

The general rule of thumb is to avoid a jack of all trades, master of none. You have only a finite number of points with which to activate Perks. As of yet, there are a maximum of 81 points (81 levels) with which to use Perks. This has proven to be the level cap for Skyrim. With this in mind, figuring out the best combination and specializations requires some planning as all perk trees will not be filled.

Two-Handed Warrior

Heavy armor is the typical route for a melee character without a shield. Smithing and archery are also recommended as complimentary skills.

Battlemage

This style sits on the line of Jack of All Trades, but worth a look. Enchanting, One Handed, and any assortment of magic is what you're looking at here. Use up your mana and slice up your victims until it refills.

Hunter

Archers can be pretty deadly in Skyrim. Light armor will keep you swift. A companion is recommended for distractions. The Deadly Aim, Eagle Eye, Steady Hands skills have proven to be useful.

Warlock

A warlock is based almost purely on Destruction magic, so clearly pump points there, with some in Conjuration and Enchanting. One or two points in Light Armor to help survival.

Tip: If you plan to base your character's offensive ability mainly on Destruction magic, its advisable to enchant your clothes/armor with 100% destruction magic mana reduction. This is because destruction magic is very underpowered at higher levels and your best option in battle is to stun lock enemies with dual cast, making you practically invincible in a 1 on 1 fight.

Paladin

The main idea behind a Paladin class is being a strong melee user, with the assistance of magic, so the key choice here should be Restoration and Heavy Armor, along with Alteration for the armor increases. Also points should be added to Shields, One Handed or Two Handed, depending on your style.

Assassin

The general rule of thumb for the Assassin build is to pump your perk points into one-handed, dagger, and sneak (specifically the --Assassin's Blade Perk), light armor, and fill the Archery tree. Beyond that, the choices are yours as far as non-combat perks. Vampirism is most beneficial for this kind of class, but not a requirement.