As every Skyrim player knows, the choices we make in the game can have far-reaching consequences. One of the early dilemmas that players encounter is whether to keep the axe bestowed upon them by the Daedric Prince Clavicus Vile, or to return it by sacrificing Barbas, Clavicus Vile’s loyal talking dog.
The Rueful Axe, as it is known, is a powerful weapon that boasts impressive stats and unique enchantments. It has the ability to strike fear into the hearts of enemies and can be a valuable asset for any player looking to enhance their combat abilities. However, returning the axe and sacrificing Barbas comes with its own rewards.
Barbas, the talking dog, is a faithful companion who provides useful information and helps the player navigate through quests. He is also known for his witty banter, which adds a touch of humor to the game. Keeping Barbas alive means you’ll have a loyal friend by your side throughout your adventures in Skyrim.
So, should you keep the axe or kill Barbas?
The answer ultimately depends on your playstyle and the kind of character you want to build. If you prioritize combat and want a powerful weapon, then keeping the Rueful Axe might be the best choice for you. However, if you value companionship and enjoy the interactions with Barbas, sacrificing him and returning the axe could be a more fulfilling option. In the end, it’s up to you to decide which path to take and live with the consequences.
Whatever choice you make, remember that Skyrim is a game that encourages exploration and experimentation. Don’t be afraid to take risks and see how the story unfolds based on your decisions. Whether you choose to keep the axe or kill Barbas, you’re sure to have an exciting and immersive experience in this legendary world.
Should I Keep the Axe or Kill Barbas?
In the quest “A Daedra’s Best Friend,” players are presented with a moral dilemma: should they keep the powerful axe known as “The Rueful Axe” or should they choose to kill Barbas, the talking dog who guides them through the quest?
The Rueful Axe
The Rueful Axe is a unique, two-handed axe that can be obtained by completing the “A Daedra’s Best Friend” quest. It has a base damage of 21 and a unique enchantment that has a chance to paralyze enemies for a few seconds. The powerful enchantment, combined with its high base damage, makes The Rueful Axe an appealing choice for those who favor heavy weapons in combat.
Barbas the Dog
Barbas is a talking dog who is the companion of Clavicus Vile, the Daedric Prince of Power and Trickery. Throughout the quest, Barbas provides guidance and assistance to the player. He has a humorous and cheerful personality, and many players find him endearing. Killing Barbas would result in the permanent loss of the talking dog companion, who some players may grow attached to throughout the quest.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to keep The Rueful Axe or kill Barbas is a personal one. Players should consider their play style and preferences. If they prefer using heavy weapons and value the power of The Rueful Axe, they may choose to keep it. On the other hand, if they have grown attached to Barbas and enjoy his company, they may decide to spare him. There is no right or wrong choice, as the quest can be completed either way and both options have their advantages.
Reasons to Keep the Axe
While the decision to keep or kill Barbas ultimately depends on personal preference, there are several compelling reasons to consider keeping the axe:
| Reason | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Increased Damage Output |
| 2 | Unique Enchantments |
| 3 | Improved Combat Effectiveness |
| 4 | Roleplaying Opportunities |
Keeping the axe will grant you increased damage output in combat. The Rueful Axe has a base damage of 22, making it a formidable weapon against your enemies. Its unique enchantments, such as “Axe of the Oblivion”, can also provide additional benefits during battles.
In addition to its combat advantages, the Rueful Axe offers unique roleplaying opportunities. Some players may enjoy the aesthetic appeal and lore behind keeping the axe as a token of their accomplishments. It can serve as a symbol of power and authority, adding an extra layer of immersion to your gameplay.
Ultimately, the choice is yours. Consider the potential benefits the axe brings to your character’s build and playstyle. Whether it be for its damage output, enchantments, combat effectiveness, or roleplaying opportunities, keeping the axe can enhance your overall gaming experience in Skyrim.
Reasons to Kill Barbas
While Barbas may appear to be an innocent and loyal companion, there are several compelling reasons to consider killing him:
1. Annoying Presence
Barbas is known to be extremely talkative and has a tendency to interrupt important conversations. This can be incredibly annoying and disruptive, especially during tense or critical moments.
2. Constant Barking
One of the most irritating qualities of Barbas is his incessant barking. This can be particularly bothersome when trying to remain stealthy or navigate through sensitive areas. Barbas’ barking could potentially alert enemies and jeopardize stealthy operations.
3. Clashes with Sneak Playstyles
If you prefer a sneak playstyle, Barbas can become a major hindrance. His loud, attention-attracting presence can easily compromise your stealthy approaches, making it difficult to navigate through dungeons undetected.
4. Freedom from Oblivion
Killing Barbas allows you to be free from the obligations and demands of the Daedric Prince, Clavicus Vile. You will no longer be bound by any quests or favors related to Barbas, giving you more autonomy in your adventures.
5. Unique Weapon Reward
By killing Barbas, you will receive the Rueful Axe, a unique and powerful weapon. This weapon can be used to deal significant damage to enemies and is a valuable asset during combat.
Ultimately, the decision to kill Barbas is a personal one, but the reasons listed above highlight the potential benefits and advantages of taking this course of action.
Effects of Keeping the Axe
Keeping the axe can have both positive and negative effects on your gameplay in the game “The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim”. Here are some of the effects you might experience:
Enhanced Combat Abilities
If you choose to keep the axe, it can significantly enhance your combat abilities. The Rueful Axe is a unique weapon that deals 20 points of damage to health and stamina. With its powerful enchantment, it can be a formidable weapon against enemies. Keeping the axe allows you to wield it in battle and take advantage of its strengths.
Barbas as a Companion
If you decide to keep the axe, Barbas, the talking dog and companion, will stay by your side. He can be a useful ally, engaging enemies in combat and providing assistance during quests. Barbas adds a unique dynamic to your gameplay experience, offering dialogues and interactions that can enhance the overall immersion in the game.
However, it is important to note that keeping the axe also has its downsides.
Cursed by Clavicus Vile
By keeping the axe, you will be cursed by Clavicus Vile, a Daedric Prince. This curse reduces your maximum health by 25 points. While the enhanced combat abilities of the axe are beneficial, the loss of health can put you at a disadvantage in intense battles. It’s essential to consider the trade-off between the axe’s power and the reduced health.
Closure for Barbas
Choosing to kill Barbas and return the axe to Clavicus Vile provides closure to Barbas’ storyline. It allows him to be free from his eternal bondage. By doing so, you won’t have the benefits of the axe or Barbas as a companion, but you will have made a choice that brings resolution to Barbas’ fate.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to keep the axe or kill Barbas depends on your desired gameplay experience. Consider the enhanced combat abilities and the companionship of Barbas against the curse and Barbas’ freedom. Make your choice wisely and enjoy the journey in “The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim”.
Effects of Killing Barbas
If you decide to kill Barbas, the loyal talking dog, there will be several consequences to consider.
1. Loss of a Companion: Barbas can be a valuable companion in combat, providing assistance and distractions during battles. Killing him means losing this valuable ally.
2. Disruption to Quest Progression: Killing Barbas will disrupt the quest “A Daedra’s Best Friend”, as he plays a crucial role in it. This may prevent you from completing the quest or affect the outcome of the story.
3. Missed Opportunities: Barbas can provide unique dialogue and quests, offering different experiences and rewards. Killing him means missing out on these opportunities.
4. Influence on Daedric Prince: Barbas is the manifestation of Clavicus Vile’s power. Killing him may have unforeseen consequences on this Daedric Prince’s domain and influence in Skyrim.
Overall, killing Barbas comes with significant downsides, such as the loss of a companion, disruption to quest progression, missed opportunities, and potential consequences for the Daedric Prince involved. Consider weighing these factors carefully before making your decision.
