Nords are one of 10 playable race options in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. The Nords are a race of hardy humans native to the province of Skyrim, where The Elder Scrolls V takes place.

Nord Race Overview
The Nords are a race of hardy humans native to the province of Skyrim, where The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim takes place. Known for their resistance to cold, exceptional physical strength, and valor in combat, Nords are often seen as fearless warriors and seafarers. Their society is marked by a deep sense of honor, with an emphasis on martial prowess and respect for the pantheon of Nordic gods.
Nord Racial Abilities
In The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, the Nords have unique racial passive skills and abilities that make them particularly well-suited for certain playstyles, especially those focusing on physical combat:
- Resist Frost: Nords have a 50% resistance to frost, making them less vulnerable to frost-based attacks. This can be particularly useful in combat situations against frost-wielding enemies or when navigating the cold, harsh environments of Skyrim.
- Battle Cry: As a racial power, Nords can use the “Battle Cry” ability once per day. This causes nearby enemies to flee for 30 seconds. It can be a potent tool in combat, particularly when outnumbered, allowing the player to reduce the number of opponents they face at once.
Nord Starting Skill Levels
Nords in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim start with the following basic skill levels:
- One-Handed (20)
- Two-Handed (25)
- Archery (15)
- Illusion (15)
- Conjuration (15)
- Destruction (15)
- Restoration (15)
- Alteration (15)
- Light Armor (20)
- Heavy Armor (15)
- Block (20)
- Sneak (15)
- Pickpocket (15)
- Lockpicking (15)
- Speech (20)
- Alchemy (15)
- Smithing (20)
- Enchanting (15)
Nord Builds and Playstyle
In The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, the Nords’ natural resilience and combat skills make them an excellent choice for players who want to create a character focused on melee combat. They excel as warriors, barbarians, or any role that involves direct physical confrontation. However, their versatility means they can also be successful in a variety of roles and playstyles, whether that be focused on magic, stealth, or ranged combat, depending on the player’s preferences.
Other Races in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
The 10 possible race options available for players in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim include:



