Quick Ans: Stormcloaks and Imperials are the two main factions in Skyrim’s Civil War. The Stormcloaks fight for an independent Skyrim under Ulfric Stormcloak, while the Imperials support the Empire and its rule over Skyrim. Neither side is completely good or evil, so your choice depends on your character, values, and preferred storyline.
If you are wondering whether to choose Stormcloaks or Imperials in Skyrim, you are choosing between two very different political factions.
The Civil War is one of the major conflicts in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. Stormcloaks want Skyrim to break away from the Empire, while Imperials want to keep Skyrim within the Empire and restore order across the province.
Both sides have strong arguments. Stormcloaks focus on independence, local traditions, and the freedom to worship Talos. Imperials focus on unity, stability, and the long term strength of the Empire.
Your decision affects the Civil War questline and changes who controls certain areas of Skyrim. However, it does not lock you out of most of the game’s content. You can still explore, complete side quests, join other factions, and follow the main storyline.
Quick Answer and Key Takeaway
| Faction | Main Goal | Leader |
|---|---|---|
| Stormcloaks | Skyrim’s independence | Ulfric Stormcloak |
| Imperials | Keep Skyrim within the Empire | General Tullius |
Choose the Stormcloaks if your character values independence and local rule. Choose the Imperials if your character values unity, order, and Imperial stability.
Definition and Explanation
Stormcloaks
The Stormcloaks are a rebel faction led by Ulfric Stormcloak. They oppose Imperial control and want Skyrim to become independent.
Their cause is closely connected to Talos worship. After the Great War, the Empire accepted restrictions on Talos worship under the White Gold Concordat.
For many Stormcloaks, this restriction represents unacceptable Imperial interference in Skyrim’s traditions. As a result, independence becomes a central part of their political movement.
Imperials
The Imperials represent the Empire’s military and political authority in Skyrim. General Tullius commands the Imperial forces during the Civil War.
The Empire argues that Skyrim is stronger as part of a larger political union. Moreover, Imperial leaders see the Stormcloak rebellion as a threat to stability.
| Feature | Stormcloaks | Imperials |
|---|---|---|
| Main goal | Skyrim’s independence | Preserve the Empire |
| Leader | Ulfric Stormcloak | General Tullius |
| Main concern | Freedom and local rule | Unity and stability |
| Talos worship | Strongly defended | Restricted under Imperial law |
| Civil War role | Rebels | Government forces |
Neither faction has a completely simple moral position. Both have strengths, weaknesses, and controversial aspects.
Is This a Story, Gameplay, or Roleplaying Choice?
Choosing between Stormcloaks and Imperials is mainly a story and roleplaying decision, although it also affects gameplay.
The faction you choose determines which side you support during the Civil War quests. As the conflict progresses, cities and military positions can change control.
Your decision can also shape your Dragonborn’s personality. A character who values independence may naturally support the Stormcloaks. On the other hand, someone who values order or believes the Empire is necessary for future threats may prefer the Imperials.
Real World Usage Examples
Stormcloak Example
A Nord character who strongly values Skyrim’s independence might join the Stormcloaks.
This choice works well for a character who places local traditions and self rule above Imperial unity.
Imperial Example
A character who believes Skyrim needs the Empire to remain politically and militarily strong might join the Imperials.
This approach suits someone who sees the larger Empire as more important than regional independence.
Neutral Example
You can delay your decision and explore Skyrim before committing to either faction.
That approach lets you learn more about the conflict before choosing a side.
Regional or Global Usage Differences
Stormcloaks and Imperials are fictional factions from The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, so there is no American or British spelling difference.
“Stormcloaks” refers to the rebel faction, while “Imperials” refers to supporters of the Empire. These terms remain the same regardless of where the player lives.
When NOT to Choose Either Side Quickly
Do not choose a faction simply because one character claims that their side is completely right.
Do not assume the Stormcloaks are automatically heroes because they fight for independence.
Likewise, do not assume the Imperials are automatically villains because they enforce Imperial law.
Avoid making your choice before considering your Dragonborn’s background and beliefs.
You also do not need to worry that one decision will remove most of Skyrim’s content.
Above all, remember that the game deliberately presents both factions with complicated motivations.
Common Mistakes and Corrections
| Correct Statement | Incorrect Statement | Why |
|---|---|---|
| The Stormcloaks fight for Skyrim’s independence. | The Stormcloaks fight to strengthen Imperial control. | Independence is central to their cause. |
| The Imperials support the Empire. | The Imperials support Skyrim’s independence. | Imperial forces defend Imperial rule. |
| Ulfric leads the Stormcloaks. | General Tullius leads the Stormcloaks. | Ulfric is the Stormcloak leader. |
| General Tullius leads Imperial forces in Skyrim. | Ulfric leads the Imperial army. | Tullius commands the Imperial side. |
Decision Rule: Choose Stormcloaks for independence and local rule. Choose Imperials for unity and Imperial stability.
Exercises With Answers
Choose Stormcloaks or Imperials.
- Which faction is led by Ulfric?
- Which faction is led by General Tullius?
- Which faction wants Skyrim to become independent?
- Which faction supports continued Imperial control?
- Which faction is associated with the rebellion?
Answer Key
- Stormcloaks
- Imperials
- Stormcloaks
- Imperials
- Stormcloaks
Related Concepts and Comparisons
Players researching this choice may also search for Skyrim Civil War, Stormcloak rebellion, Imperial Legion, Ulfric Stormcloak, General Tullius, Skyrim faction choice, Stormcloaks vs Imperials, and Skyrim Civil War ending.
FAQs
Are the Stormcloaks or Imperials better in Skyrim?
There is no universally correct answer. Stormcloaks suit players who prefer Skyrim’s independence, while Imperials may appeal to players who value unity and stability.
Should I join the Stormcloaks or Imperials first?
You don’t need to rush the decision. You can explore Skyrim, complete other quests, and learn more about both factions before joining one.
Are Stormcloaks good or evil?
The Stormcloaks are not presented as completely good or evil. Their independence movement has understandable motivations, but the faction also has controversial political and social views.
Are Imperials good or bad in Skyrim?
The Imperials are also morally complicated. They represent law and political stability, but their enforcement of Imperial policies creates serious conflict in Skyrim.
Can you join both Stormcloaks and Imperials?
You cannot fully support both sides of the Civil War. Once you commit to one faction, your Civil War storyline follows that side.
Does choosing Stormcloaks or Imperials change Skyrim?
Yes. Completing the Civil War can change which faction controls certain cities and military locations. However, most other Skyrim content remains available.
Which side should a Nord choose in Skyrim?
A Nord character might naturally fit with the Stormcloaks because their cause focuses on Skyrim’s independence and local traditions. However, you can choose the Imperials if that better fits your character.
Can you change sides after joining the Civil War?
Changing sides is limited once you progress through the Civil War questline. Therefore, consider your choice before committing to a faction.
Conclusion
The choice between Stormcloaks or Imperials is one of Skyrim’s most memorable roleplaying decisions. Stormcloaks fight for an independent Skyrim and emphasize local traditions and freedom. Imperials defend the Empire and emphasize political unity and stability.
Neither faction is completely perfect. Stormcloaks have understandable reasons for opposing Imperial rule, yet their movement also has controversial aspects. Meanwhile, Imperials offer political unity, but their policies have caused anger throughout Skyrim.
For that reason, the better faction depends on the character you want to play. If your Dragonborn values independence and Skyrim’s traditional identity, the Stormcloaks may feel like the natural choice. If your character values order, unity, and the strength of the Empire, the Imperials may be a better fit.
The decision also gives you a chance to roleplay rather than simply choosing the faction with the strongest rewards. Both sides offer a different perspective on Skyrim’s conflict.
Practical tip: Before choosing, listen to both sides and consider your Dragonborn’s personality. Then pick the faction that best matches your character’s beliefs.