The Nord is a great option for a first character. You’ll be skilled at two-handed weapons, will get more money for selling loot, and have a Light Armor bonus and racial abilities that keeps you mobile and able to survive the early game. [1] X Research source The Orc is phenomenal at surviving damage, and dealing damage in melee. [2] X Research source With immediate access to Orc stores and trainers, bonuses to crafting armor and weapons, and bonuses to both one-handed and two-handed weapons, you’ll have many options to choose from. [3] X Research source
Argonians have a better Lockpicking bonus, a Light Armor bonus, and a racial ability that regenerates health once per day. All of these will make life as a low-level sneaky character a bit easier. The Khajiit have a better unarmed damage bonus, a better Sneak bonus, an Archery bonus, and tend to be more versatile. Pick this if you are not fully committed to the thief archetype, or you want to be a well-rounded combat character as well.
Argonians have a better Lockpicking bonus, a Light Armor bonus, and a racial ability that regenerates health once per day. All of these will make life as a low-level sneaky character a bit easier. The Khajiit have a better unarmed damage bonus, a better Sneak bonus, an Archery bonus, and tend to be more versatile. Pick this if you are not fully committed to the thief archetype, or you want to be a well-rounded combat character as well.
Argonians have a better Lockpicking bonus, a Light Armor bonus, and a racial ability that regenerates health once per day. All of these will make life as a low-level sneaky character a bit easier. The Khajiit have a better unarmed damage bonus, a better Sneak bonus, an Archery bonus, and tend to be more versatile. Pick this if you are not fully committed to the thief archetype, or you want to be a well-rounded combat character as well.
The Orc’s berserk ability and the Breton’s magic resistance are probably the most powerful and versatile options. [12] X Research source The Imperial and Nord active abilities remain unique and effective, though somewhat narrow.
While the Argonians’ water breathing and the Khajiit’s night vision sound like they would open up unique exploration options, it turns out these are rarely useful.
If you make additional characters, consider choosing a variety of races, and both sexes, so you have a chance to explore alternate dialogue.
Early on in the game, you’ll be introduced to Standing Stones. While the first ones you see sound similar to classes (Thief, Mage, or Warrior), you will be able to switch between them as many times as you like. [16] X Research source
