In The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion , the spell Burden is an Alteration magic effect that temporarily increases the target's inventory weight (encumbrance) by a certain number of points for a duration. If the added burden pushes the target's encumbrance beyond their maximum carrying capacity, the target becomes immobile, effectively preventing them from moving. This immobilization makes them vulnerable to attacks, especially ranged or magical ones
. Additional effects of Burden include increasing the target's rate of fatigue loss, which can reduce their combat effectiveness by lowering damage output, slowing movement, and making them more prone to staggering or being knocked down
. Burden is often used offensively to hinder enemies, but it can be less effective on NPCs who carry little equipment. It is sometimes combined with other effects like Drain Strength to enhance its impact. However, Burden spells tend to be more costly in magicka compared to Drain Strength spells that reduce encumbrance indirectly by lowering strength
. Players can counteract Burden by using spells like Fortify Strength or Feather, or by dropping equipment to reduce their own encumbrance
. In summary, Burden in Oblivion:
- Temporarily increases target's encumbrance.
- Can immobilize targets if encumbrance exceeds maximum.
- Causes faster fatigue loss and combat penalties.
- More magicka-expensive than some alternative spells.
- Useful to slow or immobilize enemies for tactical advantage
