The latest Skyrim DLC release comes in the form of Hearthfire. Like it’s Dawnguard predecessor, Hearthfire is available on Xbox Live initially with hopes that it will become available on PS3 at a later date.
Hearthfire Details
Players who’ve completely immersed themselves in the Skyrim lore and game will undoubtedly jump at the chance for a new DLC. In Hearthfire players can create their own custom home on purchased plots of land.
House creation means your adventurer will have to tap into his/her craftsman side for a time in order to build and design the new residence. Residences are a culmination of stock (in game) display units and items with player’s unique twists on them. Each home can have an alchemy lab, mannequin area, display cases, blacksmith forge, stable, garden, armory and more along with a carpenter’s workbench for assembling logs and materials into structures.
Players can build as many as 3 unique homes and at present there looks to be no limitations on their locations. Land must be purchased, though it’s unclear on the price and requirements necessary to obtain a building permit.
Gameplay
While there doesn’t appear to be any new skills or combat based content, Bethesda has provided some additional features with the Hearthfire DLC.
While owning your own home has its rewards, they also come with obligations. Defending it against skeevers and giants is part of the responsibility of a homeowner while hiring stewards can help building your home a bit easier.
Additionally, players can move their spouses into their custom home and although gameplay doesn’t allow for procreation there is the option to adopt children. Adopted children do need attention, but it’s unclear whether they actually mature beyond the simple tasks associated with them.
Release Notes
Skyrim Hearthfire DLC is set to release September 4, 2012 for Xbox Live. No release date has been announced for PS3 or PC.
Cost: Hearthfire DLC will cost 400 Microsoft points = $5 (US dollars).
Final Thoughts
Hearthfire will probably be received with mild enthusiasm as it doesn’t include new combat or major skill tree enhancements. Having said that, Skyrim fans can get just a little more from the game they’ve come to love by putting their own personal mark on the world with a custom house.
Though the existing houses in Skyrim are adequate, each has their own quirky feature that could use a change. Hearthfire is the chance to create a home that fits a player’s style and need.
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