Character Advancement

Leveling Advice

Tactically level up during a particularly frightening combat, as shown.

As your skills increase, you gradually make progress toward gaining a level. There are several aspects of this process worth taking a closer look at:

• Improve what you use: The skills you use will improve naturally as you use them. There is no need to go out of your way to improve a skill you never plan to use; this doesn’t level your character any faster and won’t make your character any stronger or more effective.
• Use what you improve: When selecting perks, be sure you’re ready to take full advantage of them. For example, don’t purchase Adept-level Magic perks until you have Adept-level spells to cast. Don’t take Enchanting perks unless you’re planning on enchanting something in the immediate future.
• Patience and perks: If you aren’t sure which perk to choose when you level up or if find yourself a few skill points away from a perk you really want, it is usually better to save the choice for later. This gives you more flexibility and allows you to change your mind. Remember, once you select a perk, you can’t take it back!
• Tactical leveling: Leveling up fully restores your Health, Magicka, and Stamina. This can literally save your life if you find yourself bereft of potions during a difficult battle. For example, if you gain a level while exploring a dungeon, you may want to wait and level up during the final (or most difficult) fight. Conversely, there’s no point in hoarding levels; once you begin leveling up, you must claim all of the levels you’ve earned.