Alchemy is the practice of converting base metals into gold or searching for a universal elixir. It is like the old version of chemistry, and according to definitions from Oxford Languages, it is based on the supposed transformation of matter.
Alchemy is a popular concept in video games, especially since many games are set in the past. It is found in games such as “Little Alchemy 2,” “Wytchwood,” and “The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim.”
Playing the Alchemist in “Skyrim” is fun. While it takes a long time to master this craft, requires patience, and needs recipes that you must first figure out, Alchemy in this game can be immensely rewarding. For instance, lethal potions can down enemies in seconds, while restorative potions can help ensure the Dragonborn is always in the best condition.
So, let PVP Live provide you with a guide. Here are some ways to enjoy Alchemy in “Skyrim.”
Tips To Have Fun Doing Alchemy In ‘Skyrim’
1. Level Up By Making Potions From Giant’s Toes And Wheat
Combining these ingredients crafts a high-value potion, perhaps the fastest and easiest way to level up your Alchemy skills.
The first ingredient here is Giant’s Toes. Like most ingredients in “Harry Potter” potions, Giant’s Toes is weird. Slaughter all walking skyscrapers you see along the way.
On your map, Mammoth Skulls mark giant camps. If you haven’t had the chance to locate any, there are two camps right next to one another in the valley between Windhelm and Whiterun.
Otherwise, you can obtain Giant’s Toes by purchasing them at Alchemy stores.
The second ingredient is Wheat. You can find an abundance at the Brandy Mug, Hlaalu, and Hollyfrost farms, all found east-southeast of Windhelm right away. Plus, they are all near each other. Don’t worry. Harvesting wheat from these fields isn’t a crime.
2. Take Advantage Of Enchanting To Improve Your Skill
In “The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim,” improving Alchemy is about using Enchanting and taking advantage of this. It can drastically improve your potion-making skills. The blend and harmony between these skills allows you to craft more powerful potions and poisons, too.
To start, use the Enchanting skill to enchant your gear with the Fortify Alchemy effect. This lets you enchant items such as necklaces, rings, gloves, and helmets.
You may also boost their benefits. Do so by investing in perks under the Enchanting skill tree, especially those capable of topping up the strength of your enchantments. In addition, using potions that fortify your Enchanting skill prior to making the gear will also further improve your Fortify Alchemy enchantments.
Enforcing this method, you can enhance the effectiveness of all potions you brew, paving the way for more formidable restoratives, stronger poisons, and other beneficial concoctions. It also creates a loop of mutual enhancement, by the way.
3. Buy Out Stores To Make Potions You Can Sell Back For Profit
Another great way to enjoy Alchemy in “Skyrim” is to be the shop-til-you-drop player. Literally, buying out all the stocks of any Alchemist, then using the items to make potions like a mad scientist before you sell everything you made to the vendor where you bought the ingredients will give you some fantastic ROI.
4. Seek Help From Alchemy Trainers
You’ll be able to enjoy Alchemy in the game when you consult with Alchemy trainers. There are three Alchemy trainers in “Skyrim” who also sell ingredients. They are:
- Lami – She is a Nord apothecary and the owner of the Thaumaturgist’s Hut, an alchemy store in Morthal. Lami is an adept Alchemy trainer.
- Arcadia – She is an Imperial apothecary and an expert alchemist who manages Arcadia’s Cauldron in Whiterun. Aside from being an expert level trainer, she also sells potions, poisons, and ingredients.
- Babette – You can find her in the Dark Brotherhood Sanctuary. She is a Master level Alchemy trainer and a Breton vampire.
5. Read Books About Alchemy
Just like reading articles on Lonely Planet before you fly to your destination, you’ll be able to enjoy Alchemy in “The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim” when you read books about it.
There are five Alchemy books in the world of “Skyrim,” which can enhance your Alchemy skills from the moment you read them. These books are:
- A Game at Dinner
- Song of the Alchemists
- De Rerum Dirennis
- Herbalist’s Guide to Skyrim
- Mannimarco, King of Worms
6. Experiment With Ingredients To Discover Their Potencies
The fun of doing Alchemy in the game is also about experimenting with ingredients to discover their potencies. Instead of solely following recipes, try different ingredients beyond these recipes to learn their properties and effects. This won’t only boost your Alchemy skill but also add an element of discovery and thrill to “Skyrim.”
Scour far-flung regions and the quirkiest of creatures to gather ingredients. This opportunity to explore a vast world is one of the things that make “Skyrim” worthwhile.
For instance, you can combine ingredients like Blue Mountain Flower and Wheat to craft a powerful health potion. Truly rewarding.
7. Complete Alchemy Quests
The last tip is finding and completing Alchemy quests in this video game. Upon completing them, you’ll be able to boost your Alchemy skills.
These quests are Discerning the Transmundane, Lami’s Misc. Quest, Arcadia’s Misc. Quest, Frida’s Misc Quest, and Inge Six Fingers’ Misc Quest. They will give an additional one point to your Alchemy skill. The last pursuit also gives a plus one to all Stealth skills.
Conclusion
While trying Alchemy in “The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim” requires certain conditions to be met, you can turn this challenging role into a fun experience by following the tips above.
Mastering the gathering of ingredients, utilizing enchantments, and experimenting with various recipes will improve your gameplay, making you a powerful and resourceful alchemist and adventurer.
“The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim” is an RPG from Bethesda. It is set two centuries after the events of “Oblivion” and happens in the titular place, Skyrim, Tamriels’ northernmost province. Its overarching story focuses on the Dragonborn, your character, on their quest to defeat Alduin the World-Eater, a ferocious dragon prophesied to destroy the world.
