To enchant items in The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, you have two main methods:
- Using Sigil Stones: These are obtained by completing Oblivion Gates and removing the Sigil Stone at the end of each gate. There are five levels of Sigil Stones (Descendant, Subjacent, Latent, Ascendant, and Transcendent), with higher-level stones providing stronger enchantments. You can apply Sigil Stones directly to weapons or armor to grant effects like extra damage or health on strike. This method is simpler and accessible early in the game as you progress through the main quest
- Using Filled Soul Gems at an Altar of Enchanting: This method involves capturing souls with the Soul Trap spell into Soul Gems, which vary in quality depending on the strength of the enemy trapped. You then take the filled Soul Gem and the item you want to enchant to an Altar of Enchanting, found at locations like the Arcane University, the Arch-Mage's Quarters, or Frostcrag Spire. At the altar, you select the item, choose the soul gem, and then pick the enchantment effect (such as elemental damage or stat boosts). The quality of the soul gem affects the strength and magnitude of the enchantment. This method allows for custom enchantments and is more flexible but requires some preparation like leveling the Mysticism skill to cast Soul Trap
Summary of the Enchanting Process Using Soul Gems:
- Obtain or buy a spell you want to enchant onto your item.
- Capture a soul using the Soul Trap spell and a Soul Gem.
- Visit an Altar of Enchanting.
- Select the item to enchant (weapon or armor).
- Choose the filled Soul Gem to power the enchantment.
- Pick the desired enchantment effect and set its magnitude.
- Name your enchanted item and confirm the enchantment.
Note that enchanted weapons consume charge with use and will need recharging using Soul Gems, while armor enchantments last indefinitely without charge depletion
. This dual method system allows you to enhance your gear significantly, making your character more powerful and versatile for higher difficulty levels and tougher enemies
