The Basics: Is There Crafting?
Clear Answer
The glint of Daedric plate armor, the sleek curve of Elven steel, the comforting weight of Iron… In the vast, immersive world of *The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion*, armor is more than just protection; it’s a statement. But for players eager to forge their own legendary sets, a fundamental question arises: *Can You Craft Armor in Oblivion*? The answer, as we’ll discover, is nuanced, revealing a system that differs from its successor, *Skyrim*, and offers its own unique challenges and rewards within the province of Cyrodiil.
Oblivion presents a different perspective on item creation than many modern RPGs. While the desire to smith a suit of armor from raw materials is a common aspiration, the game doesn’t directly allow for crafting new armor pieces from scratch in the same manner as some later titles. Instead, the game leans into a robust system of acquisition, maintenance, and modification, that provides a unique experience for players within the world of Tamriel. The emphasis shifts from building to finding, repairing, and optimizing. So while the direct answer to the question “Can You Craft Armor in Oblivion?” is technically, *no*, the way you acquire and care for your armor is still an essential and fulfilling part of the gameplay.
Ways to Obtain Armor
Merchants and Trade
One of the most fundamental ways to acquire armor in Oblivion is through the network of merchants scattered throughout Cyrodiil. From the bustling marketplaces of the Imperial City to the smaller, more localized shops in towns like Bruma and Cheydinhal, traders offer a diverse selection of armor pieces. The availability of specific armor types, and the quality of those pieces, is intrinsically tied to the level of the merchant and the character’s own progression in the game. Low-level characters will find themselves limited to basic sets like Iron or Leather. As the player levels up and explores the land, a greater variety becomes available. They can upgrade to the heavier steel or dwarven armor, or perhaps find some lighter options like elven armor. The shopkeeper’s inventory can also change based on their individual specialization and the store’s proximity to certain types of dungeons. Frequent visits, and a keen eye, are critical to finding the armor needed to protect you as you journey.
Dungeons and Enemies
Beyond the structured commerce of merchants, the world of Oblivion is brimming with opportunities to discover armor through exploration and combat. Exploring ancient ruins, delving into forgotten crypts, and raiding bandit camps all hold the potential for a surprising armor piece. The chance of finding a set, or pieces to complete a set, depends on the player’s level, and the difficulty of the location. Expect to stumble across pieces of a variety of sets, from common to uncommon.
The act of fighting and slaying the monsters, and hostile factions in the game will also offer a chance to gain armor. A victorious character will often be able to loot enemies that have recently fallen. Every creature, bandit, and monster wields armor, even those they are defeated by. By carefully examining the defeated, players can find pieces of armor that they can equip or sell. In the dungeons, where the monsters can often be seen wearing a diverse range of armor, players can find and collect various pieces to sell.
Quest Rewards
Completing quests is another excellent way to acquire armor. Many questlines offer specific, unique armor pieces as rewards, often tailored to the theme or narrative of the quest itself. Such as the quest for the Helm of the Gray Fox, for example. The completion of quests will provide the player with a valuable reward. Many of these quests are some of the most memorable elements of the game. It is important to find the right quests to progress in the game and get the right armor.
Repairing Armor (The Closest to Crafting)
The Repair System
If the ability to craft armor from raw materials is not available, then the game provides a very valuable alternative: a repairing system. While you can’t create new armor, you can preserve it by maintaining your existing equipment. Damage is an ever-present threat in the harsh world of Cyrodiil, and your armor will gradually degrade with each blow it absorbs. To keep your protective gear in top condition, you need to use a repair hammer.
How Repairing Works
Repairing your armor restores its defensive capabilities. This is essential for survival. The Repair skill is also incredibly significant; the higher your skill, the more effective your repairs will be. This means a higher skill level will give your armor more protection than a lower skill level. This skill is one of the most important that a character should master to truly survive in the game.
Finding repair hammers is a necessity for armor maintenance. These tools are relatively easy to acquire. Many general merchants and blacksmiths throughout Cyrodiil sell them. Always carry a repair hammer, or multiple, so you can fix your armor in the field.
The Importance of Armor in Oblivion
Armor Class and Protection
The role of armor in Oblivion cannot be overstated. It is crucial for survival in a world filled with dangerous creatures, hostile factions, and unpredictable perils. It dictates how much damage a player can take before falling in battle. The defense value of your character is directly linked to the level of armor.
Set Bonuses and Advantages
Completing complete sets is a powerful way to get a huge bonus. The type of armor you select will determine how fast you move, how heavily you are encumbered, and how well you can withstand attacks. Armor sets can provide significant advantages. A player can often find advantages when they wear multiple pieces from a certain armor set.
Armor Sets and Their Significance
Notable Armor Sets
Some armor sets are highly sought after for their effectiveness and aesthetic appeal. Daedric armor, crafted from the dark realm of Oblivion, represents the pinnacle of protection, with its imposing appearance and exceptional defensive capabilities. Ebony armor offers a stylish combination of strength and resistance to the effects of magic, while Glass armor provides excellent protection. Other common options include sets like steel, dwarven, and elven, each suited to different playstyles and available at different points in the game.
Tips and Tricks Related to Armor
Early Game Strategies
Choosing the right armor can make a massive difference. Early in the game, players should focus on acquiring the best armor possible to increase their durability. As the character advances and the game progresses, finding and collecting the best armor will increase the overall defense.
Armor and Character Progression
The game also provides the opportunity to learn about the different kinds of armor. Different creatures and enemies wear their own types of armor. This knowledge will prove useful as you learn what armor to obtain, what pieces will do the most good, and how to fight better against different enemies and creatures.
Maintaining Armor
Repairing your armor and keeping it in good condition is one of the most important. Keep your repair skill as high as possible to ensure that you can repair the armor with its best values.
Enchanting Armor
The enchantment system adds yet another layer to armor customization. Enchanting allows players to imbue their armor with magical properties, such as increased health regeneration, magic resistance, or even specific weapon skills. These enchantments significantly enhance the overall effectiveness of a suit of armor.
Conclusion
So, going back to the core question, *Can You Craft Armor in Oblivion*? While you can’t hammer out armor from scratch, the game offers a fulfilling and rewarding experience. The journey through Cyrodiil is one where the player is able to obtain their armor in many ways. The key is to explore, fight, scavenge, and trade. The game forces players to maintain the equipment that they have earned. The experience of finding unique armor, repairing it, and enhancing its properties is a rewarding one in itself. It is not the traditional crafting seen in many modern RPGs, but it’s a testament to the Elder Scrolls series’ focus on exploration, discovery, and the importance of adapting to the world around you. It offers a different, but equally valid, path to achieving the goal of becoming a heavily armored hero of Cyrodiil.
