The Skyrim pure mage build, a testament to arcane prowess, invites players to wield the unbridled power of magic, conjuring spells that ignite, freeze, and manipulate the very fabric of reality. This guide will delve into the intricacies of this captivating playstyle, empowering you to forge a mage of unparalleled potency.
Core Attributes
The foundation of a pure mage build lies in the core attributes. Primary attributes are Magicka, Health, and Stamina, while secondary attributes include Alteration, Conjuration, Destruction, Enchanting, Illusion, Restoration, and Smithing.
For a pure mage, Magicka is paramount, determining spellcasting power and capacity. Health is also important for survivability, but Stamina can be largely ignored.
| Level | Magicka | Health | Stamina |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-10 | 3:1:0 | 2:1:0 | 1:1:0 |
| 11-20 | 4:1:0 | 3:1:0 | 1:1:0 |
| 21-30 | 5:1:0 | 4:1:0 | 1:1:0 |
| 31-40 | 6:1:0 | 5:1:0 | 1:1:0 |
| 41-50 | 7:1:0 | 6:1:0 | 1:1:0 |
| 51-60 | 8:1:0 | 7:1:0 | 1:1:0 |
| 61-70 | 9:1:0 | 8:1:0 | 1:1:0 |
| 71-80 | 10:1:0 | 9:1:0 | 1:1:0 |
| 81-90 | 11:1:0 | 10:1:0 | 1:1:0 |
| 91-100 | 12:1:0 | 11:1:0 | 1:1:0 |
Essential Skills
The essential skills for a pure mage are Conjuration, Destruction, and Illusion. These skills provide a diverse range of abilities that empower the mage in combat and non-combat situations.
- Conjuration: Allows the mage to summon creatures, raise the dead, and create powerful bound weapons. Leveling this skill grants access to stronger summons and improved duration.
- Destruction: The bread and butter of offensive spellcasting, Destruction encompasses elemental damage spells such as fire, ice, and lightning. Leveling this skill increases spell damage and reduces spell costs.
- Illusion: Grants the mage the ability to manipulate minds, casting spells that calm, charm, or fear enemies. Leveling this skill increases the effectiveness of these spells and allows the mage to cast them more often.
Equipment and Enchantments
The right equipment can significantly enhance a pure mage’s capabilities. Ideal armor for mages includes robes that provide Magicka bonuses, such as the Archmage’s Robes. Weapons include staves, which offer both offensive and defensive enchantments.
Enchanting is crucial for mages, allowing them to create custom enchantments that further boost their spellcasting abilities. Useful enchantments include those that reduce spell costs, increase spell damage, or fortify Magicka regeneration.
Spells and Spellcasting
Spells are the lifeblood of a mage. Essential spells for each school of magic include:
- Conjuration: Soul Trap, Conjure Familiar, Bound Sword
- Destruction: Flames, Frostbite, Lightning Bolt
- Illusion: Calm, Fury, Muffle
Different spellcasting styles have their advantages and disadvantages. Elemental specialization focuses on maximizing damage output within a specific element, while utility spells offer versatility and support in various situations.
Perks and Abilities
Perks and abilities enhance the mage’s spellcasting capabilities. Beneficial perks include:
| Perk | Description |
|---|---|
| Destruction Mastery | Increases destruction spell damage by 50% |
| Conjuration Mastery | Increases the duration of conjured creatures by 50% |
| Illusion Mastery | Increases the magnitude of illusion spells by 50% |
| Augmented Flames | Increases the damage of fire spells by 50% |
| Aspect of Terror | Fear spells have a 100% chance to flee enemies |
| Master of the Mind | Illusion spells cast on enemies are 25% more powerful |
Combat Strategies
Pure mages excel in ranged combat and crowd control. They can use spells to damage enemies from afar, summon creatures to distract and tank, and manipulate minds to pacify or disorient foes.
However, mages are vulnerable to melee attackers and have limited survivability. It’s essential to keep a safe distance, use crowd control spells effectively, and have a plan for dealing with enemies that get too close.
Roleplaying and Immersion: Skyrim Pure Mage Build
Roleplaying a pure mage can be a deeply immersive experience. Consider the mage’s backstory, motivations, and alignment.
To enhance immersion, seek out books and lore related to magic, join the College of Winterhold, and interact with other mages in the game world.
Character Development
Here’s a sample character build for a pure mage:
- Attributes: Magicka-focused, with minimal investment in Health and Stamina
- Skills: Conjuration, Destruction, Illusion, and Enchanting as major skills
- Equipment: Archmage’s Robes, Staff of Magnus, Amulet of Magnus
- Roleplaying: A member of the College of Winterhold, seeking knowledge and power in the arcane arts
As the character levels up, they can specialize in specific schools of magic, unlock new perks and abilities, and acquire more powerful equipment, enhancing their spellcasting prowess.
User Queries
What are the key attributes for a pure mage build?
Magicka, Intelligence, and Willpower are the primary attributes, while Health and Stamina are secondary.
Which skills are essential for a pure mage?
Conjuration, Destruction, and Illusion are the core skills, complemented by Alteration, Restoration, and Enchanting.
What are the best enchantments for a pure mage?
Enchantments that reduce spell costs, increase spell power, or fortify Magicka are highly beneficial.