Beyond the main quest, Skyrim has six great questlines. Each can be completed regardless of your build, and each ends with you leading the organisation.
The Companions
Join: Jorrvaskr, Whiterun.
Highlight: Become a Werewolf and cleanse the Glenmoril curse.
Reward: Wuuthrad & Harbinger of the Companions.
College of Winterhold
Join: Winterhold (cast a spell to enter).
Highlight: Stop the Eye of Magnus catastrophe.
Reward: Staff of Magnus & Arch-Mage's quarters.
Thieves Guild
Join: The Ratway, Riften (meet Brynjolf).
Highlight: Restore the Guild and expose Mercer Frey.
Reward: Nightingale armor & Skeleton Key.
Dark Brotherhood
Join: Kill Grelod in Riften, then answer the black hand.
Highlight: The contract to assassinate the Emperor.
Reward: Shrouded gear, Shadowmere & the Blade of Woe.
The Civil War
Join: Windhelm (Stormcloaks) or Solitude (Imperials).
Highlight: Campaign hold by hold for the fate of Skyrim.
Reward: Titles, land and a changed world.
Bards College
Join: Solitude.
Highlight: Recover the lost verses of King Olaf.
Reward: Access to the Flyting festival and free skill-book training.
Faction leaders also grant Daedric quest opportunities and rare trainers. Doing all six is the fastest route to a well-rounded, richly-equipped Dragonborn.
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