One of the major attractions of the Elder Scrolls series, in addition to its expansive fantasy settings and enduring RPG gameplay, is the availability of different playable races for players to embody.
From traditional races such as elves and various human groups to fresh interpretations of familiar favorites like Orcs, Khajiit, and Argonians, the series offers a wide range of options to cater to every player’s preferences.
In the Elder Scrolls series, there are different playable races in Skyrim, and each race has its own designated area in the continent of Tamriel. Although there are some regions like Solstheim that overlap with Skyrim and Morrowind, most of these regions are primarily confined to enhance the storytelling and gameplay experience.
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Redguard – Hammerfell
The Redguard race is a bit enigmatic compared to other human races in Tamriel. Unlike the Atmorans and Aldmer, they did not migrate to Tamriel. Instead, they originate from a lost continent called Yokuda, which is located off the west coast of Tamriel.
The name “Redguard” is derived from the Yokudan phrase “Ra Gada,” which refers to a fleet of warriors from Yokuda. Similar to the legendary Spartans, the Redguard people train their men, women, and children in the art of war from a young age, ensuring they are well-prepared for battle.
As a result, their new homeland, Hammerfell, has never been successfully conquered by invading forces. This remarkable ability to defend themselves has allowed the Redguard to maintain a neutral stance in the ongoing conflict between the Aldmeri Dominion and the Empire, known as the Great War.
Orsimer – Orsinium
Unlike most other races in the game Skyrim, the Orsimer, also known as Orcs, do not have a specific region of Tamriel that they call home. Instead, they are a nomadic race that builds strongholds in different regions of the continent.
Throughout the series, their city-state, Orsinium, has been located in various regions. In the Third Era, it was situated in High Rock, where the Orcs shared the region with the Bretons. However, in the events of Skyrim, Orsinium has been relocated to the mountainous area between Skyrim and Hammerfell.
Similar to the Dunmer, the Orsimer have a strong bond with a Daedric Prince. In their case, their patron deity is Malacath, who is the main focus of their religious worship.
Nord – Skyrim
The icy and harsh terrain of Skyrim is not suitable for those who are physically weak, but it is a perfect homeland for the resilient Nords. Surrounded by Morrowind, High Rock, and Hammerfell, Skyrim is perhaps the most recognized region in the series, especially because of the widespread popularity of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim.
In the past, before it was known as Skyrim, the land was referred to as Mereth due to the significant population of elves, particularly the Falmer, who inhabited the area. However, this did not discourage Ysgramor and his Five Hundred Companions from reclaiming their freedom and asserting their control over Skyrim.
Khajiit – Elsweyr
The Khajiit and Argonians have inhabited Tamriel for a long time, predating the arrival of men and elves. However, the Khajiit race is now confined to a specific area called Elsweyr on the map. Elsweyr is surrounded by Valenwood, Cyrodiil, and Black Marsh.
This region is characterized by its challenging dry plains, although there are also beautiful forested areas in the southern parts of Elsweyr.
The playable races in Skyrim include the Khajiit, who have a distinct characteristic that sets them apart from other races. Unlike other races whose physical features are determined by genetics, the Khajiit’s forms are influenced by the phases of the moon.
This unique trait results in a wide range of variations in their humanoid appearances. In addition to their more feline-like forms, some Khajiits take on the appearance of large, four-legged creatures resembling lions, while others closely resemble humans.
Imperial – Cyrodiil
The Elder Scrolls series places a significant focus on Cyrodiil, which serves as the capital of the Empire and the central location in Tamriel. It is inhabited by the Imperials and draws inspiration from the ancient Roman culture, both in its customs and physical features.
As a medieval fantasy setting, Cyrodiil embodies many stereotypical elements. In terms of religion, Imperial culture holds a prominent position in the Elder Scrolls series, with the majority of races in Tamriel recognizing the Imperial Pantheon of the Eight Divines as the primary faith.
However, there are also various interpretations and worship practices associated with the Divines.
Argonian – Black Marsh
Black Marsh, also known as Argonia, is a region characterized by its vast swamp and marshland. Its challenging terrain has historically deterred invaders from conquering the area.
Despite being incorporated into the Empire at one point, Black Marsh later seceded along with Summerset Isle and Elsweyr following the death of Martin Septim and the Oblivion Crisis.
Presently, during the events of Skyrim, Black Marsh remains neutral in the ongoing conflict between the Aldmeri Dominion and the Empire.
Bosmer – Valenwood
While the Bosmer, also known as Wood Elves, may not be the main focus in the Elder Scrolls series, they possess a fascinating and distinct culture within the world of Tamriel. One significant aspect of their lives revolves around the “Green Pact,” a covenant established with Y’ffre, the deity of the forest.
In exchange for their services, Bosmer are prohibited from utilizing plants or plantlife in their architectural endeavors. Moreover, they are also forbidden from employing plantlife for recreational activities, including smoking or as a food source.
Breton – High Rock
Bretons, also known as Manmeri, are a unique race in Skyrim that is a combination of humans and elves. Unlike other races, they possess the best qualities of both species.
While they may physically resemble Imperials or Nords, their true power lies in their exceptional magical abilities inherited from their elven lineage.
This makes them some of the most formidable mortal mages in the land of Tamriel. Bretons’ cultural identity and religious beliefs are also a fusion of human and elven influences.
Their pantheon consists of twelve gods, including the Eight Divines of the Imperial Pantheon and various elven deities such as Y’ffre, the forest god of Valenwood, and Magnus, the god of magic. This blend of beliefs further enhances their connection to the magical realm.
Dunmer – Morrowind
The Dark Elves, also known as the Dunmer, originated in Tamriel as a group called the Chimer. These elves were cursed by the Daedric Prince Azura for their wrongdoing against the divine beings, resulting in their dark skin and blood-red eyes.
Unlike other races, the Dunmer prioritize the worship of the Daedric Princes over the divines. They have forsaken the beliefs of the Aldmer and their descendants and settled in Morrowind during the early Merethic Era.
The land of Morrowind, also referred to as Resdayn, is a unique and otherworldly environment filled with strange creatures and unusual plant life, surpassing even the expectations of fantasy worlds.
It was once a region inhabited by the Dwemer, but after separating from the Aldmer, the Chimer and Dwemer engaged in a prolonged war. This violent conflict led to the mysterious disappearance of the Dwemer and, more significantly, the transformation of the Chimer into the Dunmer due to the Tribunal’s ambitious pursuit of godhood.
Altmer – Summerset Isles
The Altmer, also referred to as the High Elves, reside in the Summerset Isles, a cluster of islands located near Valenwood. With their geographical advantage of being surrounded by water, the Altmer have a lower risk of unexpected invasions, as they can easily spot approaching forces from a great distance.
This strategic advantage has contributed to their enduring power and influence throughout history. The Altmer’s inflated sense of superiority stems not only from their protected homeland but also from their belief in their divine entitlement to govern over other races, including beasts and humans.
This belief, coupled with the events leading to the end of the Third Era, led to their separation from the Empire and the establishment of the Aldmeri Dominion.
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