Skyrim, with its sprawling landscapes and epic quests, offers players a treasure trove of collectibles. Among the most sought-after are the Dragon Claws, powerful artifacts steeped in lore and boasting unique enchantments. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough on how to acquire all of the Dragon Claws in Skyrim. We'll cover their locations, any prerequisites, and some helpful tips to make your quest for these legendary items a success.
Understanding the Dragon Claws
Before we dive into the locations, it's important to understand what makes Dragon Claws so special. They aren't just powerful weapons; they are key components in completing certain quests and achieving specific achievements. Each claw offers a unique enchantment, adding to their desirability for collectors and those looking to optimize their character builds.
Key features of Dragon Claws:
- Powerful enchantments: Each claw possesses a unique enchantment, often offering significant bonuses to combat abilities.
- Collectible items: Gathering all Dragon Claws provides a satisfying sense of accomplishment and completion.
- Quest relevance: Some quests may require obtaining specific Dragon Claws.
Locating Each Dragon Claw: A Comprehensive Guide
This section details the location of each Dragon Claw, providing clear instructions to aid your search.
1. The Claw of Goldur:
This claw is arguably the most challenging to obtain, requiring completion of the "The Fallen" quest. This quest is triggered by exploring the Forelhost ruins located in Eastmarch. Be prepared for a tough fight against several Draugr, culminating in a battle against a powerful Draugr Lord. The Claw is located within the chamber where you face the boss.
Tips for obtaining the Claw of Goldur:
- High-level character: This quest is best tackled at a higher level, as the enemies are formidable.
- Strong weaponry and armor: Equip yourself with powerful weapons and armor to withstand the Draugr's attacks.
- Restoration and health potions: Stock up on potions to heal yourself during the battles.
2. The Claw of Krosis:
This claw is found within Skuldafn, a prominent location in the main questline. You'll encounter this during the quest "Alduin's Bane". The claw is located near the top of the mountain. Look for a Dragon Priest's chest hidden behind a waterfall, and the claw will be inside.
Tips for obtaining the Claw of Krosis:
- Progress the main questline: This claw is obtained as part of the main storyline, so naturally progress through the main quests.
- Prepare for a challenging fight: The area contains several Draugr and other enemies.
3. The Claw of Nahkriin:
This claw is situated within Ironbind Barrow, a smaller dungeon located in Eastmarch. You can easily locate this dungeon on your map. Once inside, navigate the dungeon, fighting off various enemies until you reach the final chamber where you'll find the claw.
Tips for obtaining the Claw of Nahkriin:
- Be wary of traps: Ironbind Barrow contains numerous traps. Move cautiously to avoid taking unnecessary damage.
- Clear the dungeon thoroughly: Ensure you explore every nook and cranny to avoid missing the claw.
4. The Claw of Vokun:
This Dragon Claw is found within Vokun's tomb. You can find this tomb by following the trail of the words of power for the shout, "Bend Will." It will be marked on the map once you obtain this shout.
Tips for obtaining the Claw of Vokun:
- Master the "Bend Will" shout: The "Bend Will" shout may be needed to control enemies.
- Be prepared for challenging combat: The dungeon guards are quite tough.
Beyond the Claws: Utilizing Your New Treasures
Once you've collected all four Dragon Claws, you can now fully appreciate their power. Experiment with different builds and combat strategies to optimize their use in your gameplay. Remember that the enchantments are unique and might synergize differently with various playstyles.
Conclusion: Embark on Your Dragon Claw Hunt!
Collecting all four Dragon Claws in Skyrim is a significant accomplishment that rewards players with powerful enchantments and a deep sense of satisfaction. This comprehensive guide provides a clear path to obtaining these coveted artifacts. So, prepare your weapons, stock up on potions, and embark on your exciting quest for the Dragon Claws! Happy hunting, Dragonborn!
