This character can be killed at any time. This character temporarily cannot be killed. Some characters lose this essential flag after their crucial role is fulfilled these actors then become 'unessential' and can be killed. To safeguard against this, certain characters are marked as 'essential' by the game. There are many characters vital to the progression of quests, and if killed, would effectively render large portions of the game completely broken. Similarly, some characters are listed as 'Protected.' This means they can be killed, but only by the Dragonborn not by followers or enemies.

In addition, essential characters are unable to be pickpocketed of some equipped weapons, or any equipped items.

Followers lie somewhat in this category, whereas they can only be killed if the Dragonborn is the one to deliver the final blow or if they are repeatedly attacked in this downed state. If their health is depleted, they fall to one knee, shortly recovering completely. For other uses, see Essential Characters.Įssential characters are NPCs that, at some point during in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, cannot be killed in any way whatsoever.

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