Explore the vast world of Skyrim and discover the best horses available in the game. With ten years of players delving into the game’s secrets, hidden weapons, questlines, and Easter eggs from other Elder Scrolls titles, players can uncover some of the game’s most special horses. To unlock these hidden horses, players must complete faction questlines or DLC missions. Each horse has its own set of abilities, stats, and a unique appearance. These horses may be easily obtainable, but their presence can easily be overlooked due to the game’s expansive nature.
- Skyrim offers a variety of unique and powerful horses that can be obtained through different means, such as questlines, purchasing from stables, and taming wild horses.
- The game offers the ability to level up various skills by exploiting the horses’ abilities, like Shadowmere’s regenerative health and Arvak’s re-summoning ability.
- Players can also purchase special horse armor and saddles to enhance their horse’s appearance and abilities.
- The My Little Pony mod is also available for players who want a more whimsical horse-riding experience, with the ability to race other players and choose from different types of ponies with unique abilities.
- Shadowmere: A legendary horse known for its exceptional speed and agility, Shadowmere is a valuable mount for skilled riders.
- Daedric Horse: A mystical horse summoned from Oblivion, the Daedric Horse is a formidable mount with high health and increased damage resistance.
- Unique Abilities: Both Shadowmere and the Daedric Horse possess unique abilities that make them stand out among other horses in the game, including increased speed, health, and defensive capabilities.
Best Horses In Skyrim
Navigating the vast open world of Skyrim can be a daunting task. To ensure that your journey is both safe and efficient, it is essential to find the best horse available. As a primary means of traversal in the game, a high-quality horse can greatly enhance your exploration experience. In this guide, we will provide information on the various horse options available in Skyrim and assist you in making an informed decision on which horse best suits your needs.
Shadowmere
Shadowmere is one of the most sought-after mounts in Skyrim, obtainable during the “The Cure for Madness” Dark Brotherhood quest. Astrid gives Shadowmere to the Dragonborn at the start of the quest as a means to catch Cicero as quickly as possible.
Key Characteristics
- Very high maximum stamina
- Very high health pool
- Ability to regenerate health quickly
- Striking appearance with a pitch-black coat and piercing red eyes
Shadowmere emerges dramatically from a dark pool, with dark smoke clouding its entrance. Its striking appearance, with piercing red eyes standing out against its pitch-black coat, makes it a popular mount among players. Shadowmere’s abilities, including very high maximum stamina, a very high health pool, and the ability to regenerate health quickly, make it a powerful companion for players. Additionally, many players use Shadowmere’s regenerative health to exploit the game’s leveling system, as the horse can withstand quite a few hits from weapons and various magic spells, which in turn levels the respective skill.
However, players should be cautious when attacking Shadowmere as it is not invulnerable and can be killed if not given time to heal. In conclusion, Shadowmere is a powerful and striking mount that offers several advantages to players, but players should be aware of its limitations and use it accordingly.
Arvak
Arvak is a unique horse in Skyrim that players can obtain by finding its skull on an altar in the Soul Cairn. After finding the skull, a spirit will appear and teach the player the “Summon Arvak” spell. From then, the player can summon the spectral mount across Skyrim, except in walled cities like Solitude.
Key Characteristics
- A Skeletal horse
- Obtained by finding its skull in the Soul Cairn
- Can be re-summoned upon death
- Can be used to level up certain damage-related skills like one-handed weapons or Destruction magic
While the spell to summon Arvak is a Conjuration spell, the skill is not leveled up when the spell is cast. However, much like Shadowmere, Arvak can be used to level up certain damage-related skills like one-handed weapons or Destruction magic. Arvak’s ability to be re-summoned upon death also makes it a useful mount during combat, as it can be used as a distraction for more difficult enemies. Additionally, Arvak can be used to tank damage from various falls or dangerous encounters, taking most of the damage so the player hardly receives any.
In conclusion, Arvak is a unique and powerful mount that offers several advantages to players. Its ability to be re-summoned upon death and its usefulness in leveling up damage-related skills make it a valuable companion for players. However, players should be aware of its limitations and use it accordingly.
Frost
Frost is a unique horse that players can obtain by completing the “Promises to Keep” questline. This quest involves stealing lineage papers from the Black-Briar family and returning them to Louis Letrush. Once back with Louis, players can convince him to hand over the payment reward, as well as Frost, by threatening him.
Key Characteristics
- Higher stamina and health compared to standard horses
- More aggressive during combat encounters
- Tan brown coat with a white mane
Frost’s appearance is fairly standard, with a tan brown coat and a white mane. However, its abilities set it apart from other horses in the game. With higher stamina and health, Frost is a strong mount for players who prefer straightforward combat. However, its heightened aggression during combat can give away the player’s position, making it less suitable for players who prefer to use stealth.
In conclusion, Frost is a strong horse that is obtained early on in the game, and its abilities can be helpful to players who prefer straightforward combat. However, players who prefer stealth may find its heightened aggression during combat to be a hindrance. It is important to consider your playstyle before deciding if Frost is the best horse for you.
Best Horses In Skyrim: Anniversary Edition
The Anniversary Edition of Skyrim introduced new special horses to the game, which players can actively acquire by completing their specific questlines. These questlines were previously part of the “Creation Club” content for Skyrim Special Edition, which served as downloadable mods for console versions of the game.
Dwarven Horse
The Dwarven Horse is a unique mount that can be built piece-by-piece by the players, providing a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment. To acquire the Dwarven Horse, players must go to the entrance of the Runoff Caverns and activate a piece of the horse, which will start a quest for players to collect all the pieces of the mechanical mount.
Key Characteristics
- Mechanical horse
- Acquired through a quest
- Unique design similar to other dwarven creations in Skyrim
The Dwarven Horse is a mechanical horse that looks very different compared to the other horses in the game. Its design is similar to that of other dwarven creations found in Skyrim, making it a unique addition to players’ stable. Acquiring the Dwarven Horse through a quest adds an element of challenge and satisfaction to the process.
In conclusion, the Dwarven Horse is a unique mount that offers players a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment through the process of acquiring it. Its mechanical design and unique appearance set it apart from other horses in the game. For players who enjoy a challenge and the sense of building something on their own, the Dwarven horse is a good option.
The Unicorn And Other Wild Horses
The Anniversary Edition of Skyrim offers players the opportunity to acquire a variety of special horses through the “Horse Whisperer” quest and the “Creature of Legend” quest. One such mount is the Unicorn, a wild horse that can be found to the west of the Lost Prospect mine. Players can tame the Unicorn by successfully mounting it for a certain amount of time.
Key Characteristics
- Available through the “Horse Whisperer” and “Creature of Legend” quests
- Found to the west of the Lost Prospect mine
- Tamed by successfully mounting it for a certain amount of time
- Return to the College of Winterhold’s courtyard when another horse is set as the main mount
To acquire the Unicorn, players must first complete the “Horse Whisperer” quest and then find Soran’s Journal located on Urag gro-Shub’s desk at the College of Winterhold. By reading the book, players will be directed to the Unicorn situated in the pond west of Lost Prospect Mine. It is worth noting that, unlike other horses, if players change the main mount to another horse, the Unicorn will return to the College of Winterhold’s courtyard.
In conclusion, the Unicorn is a unique mount that offers players a different experience from other horses in the game. Its wild nature and the quest to tame it add an element of adventure and challenge. Players who enjoy unique and challenging mounts should definitely consider the Unicorn.
Daedric Horse
The Daedric Horse is a powerful mount that can be acquired by completing the “The Cause” quest, which is part of the “Creation Club” content in the Anniversary Edition of Skyrim. Players can conjure the Daedric Horse by using a spell found in the quest line.
Key Characteristics
- Conjured by using a spell found in the “The Cause” questline
- Obtained by defeating Daedric enemies in the deadlands
- Unique appearance with a color scheme reminiscent of Oblivion portals
The quest will send players to the deadlands, where they will have to face off against multiple Daedric enemies, including a Daedric Horse. Upon defeating them, players will be able to find the spell tome that teaches the required conjuration spell. The Daedric Horse is one of the best-looking mounts in the game, with a color scheme reminiscent of the Oblivion portals.
In conclusion, The Daedric Horse is a powerful mount that offers players a unique and challenging experience. Its unique appearance and the process of acquiring it make it a desirable mount for players who enjoy a challenge and powerful mount. Players who appreciate a unique and powerful mount should definitely consider the Daedric horse.
Calling Your Horse In Skyrim
Calling your horse in Skyrim can be a hassle, especially when you’re in a rush to get to your next destination. But fear not; there are a couple of ways to summon your trusty companion.
Fast Travel
The first and most straightforward method is to use fast travel. Simply fast-travel to any location, and your horse will spawn right beside you. However, keep in mind that if you’re traveling into a city, your horse will spawn just outside of it or at its stables.
Convenient Horses
Another option is to install the Convenient Horses mod. This mod adds a horse-calling feature to the game, allowing you to use a whistle to call your horse from a short distance or a horn to call them from anywhere in the world. This mod makes calling your horse more convenient and efficient.
Getting Your First Horse In Skyrim
Acquiring a horse in Skyrim is a must for any adventurer looking to travel the vast open world efficiently. Whether you’re looking for a reliable companion to traverse the rugged terrain or a fierce steed to gallop into battle, there are a variety of options available to suit your needs.
Purchasing
One option is to purchase a horse from one of the many stables scattered throughout the land. You will find a wide variety of breeds, each with its own unique characteristics. For example, the Dapple Grey, a sturdy and reliable horse, can be found at the Riften stable, while the Palomino, a horse known for its speed and agility, can be found at the Solitude stable. A list of all these horses has been detailed here:
- Heljarchen Hall: Black
- Lakeview Manor: Dun
- Markarth: Piebald
- Riften: Dapple Grey
- Solitude: Palomino
- Whiterun: Black
- Windhelm: Bay
- Windstad Manor: Dapple Grey
Stealing
Another option is to acquire a horse through more nefarious means. Many horses can be found roaming the wilds and can be stolen with a bit of stealth and cunning. However, be aware that stealing a horse will increase your bounty and may lead to unwanted attention from the local guards.
Special Horses In Vanilla Skyrim
Lastly, there are three unique horses that can be earned through special questlines or DLC content. These horses come with their own unique abilities and are a great addition to any stable. The Shadowmere, known for its regenerative health, can be found during the Dark Brotherhood quest, Frost, a horse known for its aggressive combat style, can be obtained by completing the “Promises to Keep” questline, and Arvak, a spectral horse that can be summoned through a spell found in the Soul Cairn.
Putting Armor On Your Horse
One way to enhance your horse riding experience is by equipping your mount with special armor and saddles. Outfitting your horse with armor in Skyrim is a great way to enhance its protection and visual appeal. Whether you’re looking to add an extra layer of defense for your trusty companion or simply want to give it a unique look, equipping your horse with armor is a must-try for any rider.
Armor
If you have the Anniversary Upgrade or purchase the Wild Horse Creation, you can buy a Steel and Elven Horse Armor for your mount. These armors are not only visually striking, but they also provide added protection for your horse. Each armor costs 500 gold and can be purchased from any stablemaster.
Saddles
In addition to armor, you can also purchase various saddles for your horse. These saddles are purely cosmetic items and won’t affect your horse’s stats, but they do add a unique touch to your mount. The five saddles available are the standard saddle, Imperial saddle, Stormcloak saddle, Dark Brotherhood saddle, and white saddle, each costing 100 gold. It is also possible to remove the current saddle for free.
In conclusion, equipping your horse with armor and saddles not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds an extra layer of protection for your trusty companion. With a variety of options available, you can customize your horse to suit your needs and preferences in the world of Skyrim.
Taming Wild Horses In Skyrim
If you’re looking for an additional mount or simply want a new challenge, taming wild horses in Skyrim is a great option. Players can find wild horses scattered throughout the game world, and taming them requires either the Animal Friend perk or the use of a spell-like Calm. In this guide, we will detail the different locations where players can find wild horses in Skyrim and how to tame them.
Whiterun Hold
In Whiterun Hold, players can find wild horses north of Dushnikh Yal and west of Valtheim Towers. These horses are known for their sturdy build and quick speed, making them a great option for players looking for a fast mount.
The Rift
In The Rift, players can find wild horses south of Ivarstead and west of Riften Stables. These horses are known for their strong endurance and are perfect for long journeys.
Haafingar
Haafingar offers wild horses west of Solitude Lighthouse and north-northwest of Dragon Bridge Overlook. These horses are known for their agility, ideal for players who like to take on challenging terrain.
Eastmarch
In Eastmarch, players can find wild horses south of Windhelm and west of Fort Amol. These horses are known for their hardiness and are perfect for players who like to take on challenging terrain.
Falkreath Hold
Falkreath Hold also offers wild horses southeast of Lakeview Manor and southwest of Half-Moon Mill. These horses are known for their strength and stamina, making them perfect for long journeys.
In conclusion, players can find wild horses scattered throughout Skyrim and tame them by using the Animal Friend perk or the spell-like Calm. Each location offers different horse types with unique characteristics, perfect for players with different preferences.
Best Wild Horse In Skyrim
The best wild horse in the game is the Unicorn, known for its exceptional health and stamina. Compared to other wild horses found throughout Skyrim, the Unicorn boasts a higher health pool and greater stamina, making it a formidable mount to own.
Taming a wild horse in Skyrim requires patience and persistence. The process involves remaining mounted on the horse for a certain amount of time until it eventually becomes an owned mount. However, be prepared for a bit of a wild ride, as the horse will buck and can throw you off its back. Once you’ve been rag-dolled, you’ll need to chase the horse down again to continue the taming process.
The Wild Horse Creation, which is available as part of the Anniversary Upgrade, offers players the opportunity to discover eight different wild horses scattered throughout Skyrim. Each horse has its own unique appearance and characteristics, including health and stamina. Here’s a breakdown of the different wild horses you can find and where to locate them:
Horse | Location | Health | Stamina
- Black Horse | South of Evergreen Grove | 497 | 238
- Chestnut Horse | East of Helgen | 497 | 238
- Dappled Brown Horse | South of Solitude Sawmill | 497 | 238
- Grey Spotted Horse | North of Salvius Farm | 497 | 238
- Pale Mare | East of Yngol Barrow | 497 | 238
- Red Horse | Northwest of Whiterun Stables | 497 | 238
- White Spotted Horse | West of Stony Creek Cave | 497 | 238
- Unicorn | West of Lost Prospect Mine | 1637 | 698
So, if you’re looking for the ultimate wild horse mount, be sure to keep an eye out for the Unicorn and be prepared to put in the effort to tame it. With its exceptional health and stamina, it’s well worth the chase.
Working Of Horses In Skyrim
To ride a horse in Skyrim, players must first open the map and select their destination. However, to fast-travel while still on horseback, players must purchase the Rider’s Endurance perk from the Riding skill tree. This perk not only allows players to fast-travel while mounted, but it also increases the horse’s health, stamina, and carrying capacity.
But, players should be careful when trying to steal a horse as it will increase the player’s bounty by 50 gold. These horses are usually labeled as “steal horse” and can be found in various places such as forts or camps. Additionally, players can tame wild horses by using the Animal Friend perk or a spell-like Calm on them. These wild horses can be found in specific locations such as Whiterun Hold, The Rift, Haafingar, Eastmarch, and Falkreath Hold.
Other Customizations
Players can also purchase special horse armor and saddles to customize their mount’s appearance. Additionally, players can level up certain damage-related skills, such as one-handed weapons or Destruction magic by using certain horses.
In addition to the standard horses, players can also install mods to add even more variety to their horse selection. The My Little Pony mod, for example, replaces the player’s character with ponies and adds new abilities such as shooting fire from their mouths and turning into a vampire. The wild horse creation also adds a variety of wild horses to the game, with the Unicorn being the best among them, with the highest health and stamina. Players can tame them and convert them into an owned mount. Players have the option to choose a horse that suits their playstyle and enhances their overall gaming experience.
My Little Pony Mod
The My Little Pony mod for Skyrim also introduces new items, such as pony-sized armor, weapons, and even mounts. These items can be found throughout the world or can be crafted at a forge using new materials. The mod also adds new NPCs, such as pony merchants and trainers, that can help you improve your pony character’s abilities and equipment.
One of the most interesting features of the My Little Pony mod is the ability to customize your pony’s appearance. You can change the color of your pony’s fur, mane, and tail, as well as add different markings and patterns. This allows you to create a truly unique pony that stands out from the rest.
To install the My Little Pony mod, you will need to download it from a modding website and then use a mod manager to install it in your game. It is important to note that this mod is not officially supported by Bethesda, so you may encounter some bugs or glitches while using it. But for those who love ponies, it’s an excellent addition to the game.
Summary
Skyrim offers a wide variety of horses for players to choose from, each with their own unique characteristics and abilities. From the powerful Shadowmere to the majestic Unicorn, players can acquire the 13 best horses through a variety of means such as questlines, purchasing them from stables, or taming them in the wild across both the vanilla Skyrim as well as the Anniversary Edition. With so many options to choose from, players are sure to find the perfect horse to accompany them on their adventures in Skyrim.
Next Up:
Thanks! Do share your feedback with us. ⚡
How could we improve this post? Please Help us. ✍
