There are two types of items inThe Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrimthat allow players to cast spells.The first is spell tomes, books that permanently give players access to new magic spells. The second is scrolls, and while these are one-use items they can be much more potent.
Magic scrolls and spell tomes generally appear in the same places for the same reasons. But while they produce similar effects, scrolls and spell tomes have very different mechanical effects, and some players have trouble wrapping their heads around these differences. That’s why this guide will explain how to use scrolls inSkyrimand what to expect from them.
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Where to Get Scrolls
The most consistent place to find scrollsis from spell merchants. These are the mages and librarians who also sell spell books that permanently teach spells to the Dragonborn. Scrolls have their own inventory section, so they’re easy enough to find.
Players can also find scrolls in random loot chests, and they show up more often in rogue mage dungeons. Spell scrolls can also appear in libraries, where the developers have cleverly hidden them among generic (and far less valuable) paper rolls.
Scrolls are great loot items since they weigh half a unit each and have a value of up to 500 gold. However, players can also make use of that value by using them in combat.
Scroll Mechanics
Scrolls inSkyrimfall into two categories: those thatmimic regular spells exactly, and those that apply stronger spell effects to a large area surrounding the caster.
Scrolls that mimic spells work just the same as normal spells. Players can select the scroll from their inventory, and this will attach the scroll effect to the player’s right hand. Simply charge the spell by holding the attack button down, aim, and release to use the scroll.
Unlike a normal spell, using a scroll doesn’t cost any magicka, but it also doesn’t count as spell practice. If players have multiple scrolls of the active type, the scroll will stay active on the right hand, but if players use up their scrolls the game will swap tothe most recently equipped weapon.
More powerful scrolls that affect an area work a little differently.
In exchange for all these issues, scrolls will hit every character and enemy in a large radius around the caster. This can clear an entire room out in an instant, especially early on. Scrolls have the same effects no matter what level the player is or how strong their magic skills are, so aScroll of Blizzard or a Scroll of Chain Lightningcan devastate a group of low-level enemies that have surrounded the caster. Just be sure to get a head start away from the crowd to get enough time to charge the spell.
The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrimis available now on PC, PS3, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox 360, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
