Understanding the Shimmering Vessels
Soul Gems: those shimmering, mystical containers that hold the very essence of life in *The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion*. Whether you’re an aspiring enchanter looking to imbue your armor with powerful effects, a seasoned warrior desperate to recharge your favorite magical weapon, or a dedicated spellcaster seeking to replenish your depleted magicka, Soul Gems are absolutely essential. But what happens when you run out? The dread of facing a powerful enemy with an uncharged weapon is a feeling all Oblivion players know well. This guide aims to alleviate that anxiety by providing a comprehensive overview of where to buy soul gems oblivion, ensuring you’re always prepared for the challenges Cyrodiil throws your way. We’ll delve into the merchants, the best strategies, and even some hidden gems (pun intended!) for acquiring these vital items.
Before we dive into locations, it’s important to understand the various types of Soul Gems you’ll encounter. These gems come in different sizes and qualities, each capable of holding souls of varying power. The key categories are Petty, Lesser, Common, Greater, and Grand. The higher the grade, the more potent the soul it can contain, and the more effective it will be for enchanting or recharging. A Petty Soul Gem is fine for a rat soul, but useless with a Minotaur soul. Each type comes with different pricing which will depend on the Soul Gem quality.
Then there’s the infamous Black Soul Gem. This unique gem is capable of holding the souls of humans and other sentient races. This is what makes it so potent and dangerous. While incredibly useful, acquiring and using Black Soul Gems is generally considered an act of necromancy and may have consequences depending on your character’s moral alignment and interactions with certain factions.
The Mages Guild: A Reliable Source
When searching *where to buy soul gems oblivion*, the Mages Guilds are the first place you should look. Spread throughout Cyrodiil’s major cities, these institutions are havens for mages, alchemists, and anyone interested in the arcane arts. Each guildhall typically has at least one member who sells a variety of magical items, including the precious Soul Gems.
Mages Guild Locations
Here’s a breakdown of the Mages Guild locations, along with some noteworthy members who often stock Soul Gems:
Arcane University (Imperial City): As the headquarters of the Mages Guild, the Arcane University boasts a wide range of resources. While access may be limited initially, completing the Mages Guild questline will open up more areas and merchants.
Bravil: Located in the eastern part of Cyrodiil, Bravil’s Mages Guild can be found easily. Speak with the guild members to find one who is willing to trade with you.
Bruma: Nestled in the snowy mountains of northern Cyrodiil, the Bruma Mages Guild offers a cozy refuge. Finding Soul Gems here can be essential for survival in the harsh environment.
Cheydinhal: Situated near the Morrowind border, Cheydinhal’s Mages Guild is known for its unique architecture and focus on Illusion magic. Check with their members for any available gems.
Chorrol: The Mages Guild in Chorrol, known for its surrounding great oak trees, often has a good selection of Common and Greater Soul Gems.
Leyawiin: Located in the swamps of southern Cyrodiil, the Leyawiin Mages Guild is a bit more secluded. Finding a merchant with Soul Gems here can be a bit trickier, but worth the effort.
Skingrad: Known for its vineyards and wealthy residents, the Skingrad Mages Guild is a great place to find higher-quality Soul Gems.
Keep in mind that the specific inventory of each merchant will vary. Checking back regularly and visiting multiple guildhalls is a good strategy for building up your Soul Gem collection. Completing quests for the Mages Guild can also reward you with Soul Gems, often as a bonus for your efforts.
The Mystic Emporium: A Magical Marketplace
Nestled in the heart of the Imperial City’s Market District, the Mystic Emporium is a dedicated store for all things magical. Its wares include scrolls, potions, ingredients, and, of course, Soul Gems. The Mystic Emporium often stocks a wider variety of Soul Gems than the average Mages Guild member, including more Grand Soul Gems and even the occasional Black Soul Gem (though these may be harder to come by). Prices here can be a bit higher, but the convenience and selection make it a worthwhile destination.
Other Merchants: Hidden Gems and Uncommon Finds
While the Mages Guilds and the Mystic Emporium are your primary sources, don’t overlook the potential of other general goods merchants throughout Cyrodiil. Some merchants, particularly those with an interest in alchemy or enchanting, may occasionally stock Soul Gems. These finds are less reliable, but can provide a welcome boost to your supply, especially in the early game.
Keep an eye out for merchants in smaller towns or those who specialize in unusual items. These merchants may have Soul Gems that are not available elsewhere. Exploring the various shops and stalls in Cyrodiil can lead to surprising discoveries and unexpected treasures.
Scavenging in the Wild: A Risky But Rewarding Pursuit
While buying Soul Gems is convenient, you can also find them scattered throughout the world. Dungeons, particularly those associated with necromancers, are a prime location for finding Soul Gems. Necromancers often use Soul Gems to power their spells and animate the dead, so their lairs are often littered with these containers.
Keep an eye out for Soul Gems in chests, on shelves, or even lying on the ground. A high Luck stat can increase your chances of finding better loot, including more valuable Soul Gems. Be prepared for danger, as necromancer-filled dungeons are often guarded by powerful undead creatures and traps.
Also keep in mind that certain enemy types are more likely to have Soul Gems on their person after they die. These Soul Gems can be looted after defeating the enemy. Necromancers have a higher chance of having soul gems than other NPC’s.
Strategies for Acquiring Soul Gems: Maximize Your Efforts
Now that you know where to look, let’s discuss some strategies for maximizing your Soul Gem acquisition.
Merchant Restock
Merchants in Oblivion don’t have an infinite supply of goods. Their inventories restock periodically, typically every two to three in-game days. If a merchant is out of Soul Gems, simply wait a few days and return to see if their stock has been replenished. You can wait in place, find a nearby inn, or fast-travel to a different location to pass the time.
Improving Disposition
A merchant’s disposition towards you affects the prices they offer. The higher their disposition, the lower the prices. You can improve a merchant’s disposition by using Charm spells or by successfully bartering with them. Complimenting them and giving them gifts can also help.
Joining the Mages Guild
Joining the Mages Guild provides several benefits, including access to more merchants who sell Soul Gems. It also grants access to discounted prices and exclusive items. The Mages Guild questline can be challenging but is well worth the effort for any aspiring mage or enchanter.
Alchemy: A Path to Riches
While not directly related to finding Soul Gems, alchemy can be a powerful tool for acquiring the gold needed to purchase them. By combining various ingredients, you can create potent potions that sell for high prices. Mastering alchemy can provide a steady stream of income, allowing you to purchase all the Soul Gems you need.
Advanced Techniques: For the Dedicated Soul Trapper
For experienced players, there are even more advanced techniques for acquiring Soul Gems.
Soul Trap: Capture Souls Yourself
The Soul Trap spell and enchantment allow you to capture the souls of creatures and humans, filling empty Soul Gems in your inventory. This is a cost-effective way to obtain Soul Gems, but requires some skill and preparation. You’ll need to find or purchase a Soul Trap spell, learn how to cast it effectively, and have empty Soul Gems ready to receive the souls. Enchanting a weapon with Soul Trap allows you to automatically capture souls every time you strike an enemy.
Mods
The modding community has created numerous mods that enhance various aspects of Oblivion, including Soul Gem acquisition. Some mods make Soul Gems more common, while others add new ways to obtain them. Be aware that using mods can alter the game experience and may require some technical knowledge to install and configure.
Conclusion: Never Run Out Again
Knowing where to buy Soul Gems Oblivion is crucial for any aspiring mage, warrior, or adventurer. By visiting the Mages Guilds, exploring the Mystic Emporium, and keeping an eye out for other merchants, you can ensure a steady supply of these essential items. Remember to employ the strategies discussed above to maximize your efforts and build up a substantial collection. Whether you choose to purchase them, find them in dungeons, or even capture them yourself, Soul Gems are an indispensable tool for success in the world of Oblivion. So, venture forth, explore Cyrodiil, and may your Soul Gems always be full!
