Betheseda Game Studios have announced a second DLC for Elder Scrolls V Skyrim pack named ‘Hearthfire’. The add-on will reach Xbox 360 users next week. In Hearthfire players will be able to build and maintain their own home. They will have the option to adopt children in the DLC.
In the add-on, gamers will be able to purchase the deed to their own plot of land. They will be able to build their new home from the ground up. After that, they will be able to use their own crafting skills and know how in order to turn raw materials such as lumber and stone to build their own individual house. If that seems like too much work however, any follower can be turned into a steward who can buy the necessary materials and equip the Dragonborn’s house with furniture. Players will also be able to hire a carriage driver and even a bard for their new home.
There will be a number of places to buy property in the game; from the salt marshes of Hjaalmarch, the forests of Falkreath, or the immense lands of The Pale. More ambitious players can however purchase multiple plots of land to build multiple houses in an attempt to build up their empire.
Developers have stated that players can build a ‘simple one room cottage to a sprawling compound complete with an armory, alchemy laboratory, stable, garden, stable and even a mill. In ‘Hearthfire’ players will be able to plant items in their new greenhouse, cultivate fish in the hatchery or even display their latest wins in the trophy room.
In Hearthfire, gamers will also be able to adopt children and interact with their family in all new ways. The Dragonborn will be able to move their spouse and child into their new home where they can play games with their children add pets to their household. The Dragonborn will be able to gain new bonuses from having a family.
Players will also face new challenges in Hearthfire and face the task of protecting their home and family. They will have to raise their children properly and protect them from a number of dangers including marauding kidnappers, armed bandits, and Skeever infestations.
Hearthfire will be available for download for 400 Microsoft Points on Xbox Live on the 4th September 2012.
No date or confirmation of release has yet to be announced for PS3 and PC versions of the game.
For more information about Hearthfire or Skyrim visit: www.bethsoft.com
