Oblivion Remake: Best Dark Brotherhood Targets

Hey guys! So, you're diving into the Oblivion Remake and looking to make some serious coin and reputation with the Dark Brotherhood, right? Well, you've come to the right place. Choosing the right target isn't just about fulfilling a contract; it's about maximizing your rewards, minimizing risk, and sometimes, even doing a little good for the world (in a twisted, assassin kind of way, of course). Let's break down who the best NPCs are to off for our favorite group of shadowy killers. We're talking about targets that give you the most bang for your buck, or perhaps, the most blood for your dagger. When you're starting out, every septim counts, and the Brotherhood doesn't mess around with half-hearted attempts. They want results, and they reward results. So, pay attention, because these aren't just random folks; these are individuals whose demise will have an impact, and more importantly, an impact on your quest log and your inventory. We'll be looking at a few key factors: the payout, the difficulty of the assassination, any potential secondary benefits (like unique loot or opening up new questlines), and the overall 'worth' of the kill in the grand scheme of the game. Think of it as strategic assassination, where every hit counts towards your ultimate goal of becoming the Listener. So, gather your stealth skills, sharpen your blades, and let's get to it. We're going to explore the juicy targets that will make your Dark Brotherhood career really take off. Remember, the shadows are your friend, and a well-placed strike is poetry in motion. Let's make sure that poetry is profitable, shall we?

Unveiling the Prime Targets: Who to Prioritize for the Brotherhood

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty, shall we? When you're aiming for the top dog status within the Dark Brotherhood in Oblivion Remake, you need to be smart about who you eliminate. It's not just about fulfilling contracts; it's about making choices that benefit you the most. The first major consideration is the reward. Some targets, especially those who are more influential or have accumulated significant wealth, tend to offer better payouts. This could be in the form of gold, unique enchanted items, or even valuable crafting materials. For instance, eliminating a corrupt merchant or a greedy noble might net you not only a hefty sum of septims but also some high-level gear that you can use or sell. Don't underestimate the value of a good enchanted sword or a full set of Daedric armor, especially in the early to mid-game. It can significantly boost your combat effectiveness and survivability. Beyond the immediate financial gain, consider the 'difficulty' and 'risk' associated with each target. Some NPCs are heavily guarded, living in well-fortified locations, or possess powerful magical abilities. Taking on such a target requires careful planning, superior stealth skills, and potentially, advanced combat techniques. However, these more challenging contracts often come with a higher reward, reflecting the risk involved. It’s a classic trade-off: a harder job often means a bigger payday. Think about whether you're ready to tackle a heavily armed guard captain or sneak into a mage's tower filled with magical traps. The Oblivion Remake aims to make these encounters dynamic and challenging, so preparation is key. Finally, let's talk about 'secondary benefits.' Sometimes, a target might be more than just a mark; they might be a stepping stone. Eliminating a certain individual could open up new questlines, grant you access to restricted areas, or even remove a particularly annoying antagonist from a town, making your life (and the lives of the locals, albeit through your violent intervention) easier. For example, taking out a corrupt official might free a town from their tyranny, leading to new opportunities or a more peaceful environment for you to operate in. These added bonuses can sometimes be more valuable than the gold itself, shaping your overall experience in the game. So, as you navigate the grim world of assassination, always weigh the gold, the challenge, and the potential ripple effects of your actions. The most strategic kills are the ones that not only satisfy the Brotherhood but also propel your own character forward.

Early Game Targets: Building Your Reputation and Your Pouch

When you're just starting out in the Oblivion Remake, money and gear are scarce, and every septim you earn from the Dark Brotherhood is precious. This is where identifying the right early-game targets becomes crucial. Focus on NPCs who are relatively isolated or have predictable patrol routes. This minimizes the risk of being detected and increases your chances of a clean kill. Think about characters who might be found wandering in the wilderness, working late in their shops with minimal security, or living in less populated areas of the cities. For example, a lone hunter in the woods or a scribe working late in a quiet library might be easier prey than a captain of the guard in the middle of the Imperial City. The key here is low security and low public visibility. You want to avoid large crowds and vigilant guards. Another excellent strategy for early-game assassinations is to target NPCs who are already somewhat disliked or whose disappearance won't cause too much of a stir. This is where a bit of in-game research and eavesdropping can pay off handsomely. You might overhear conversations about a greedy merchant hoarding resources or a minor official taking bribes. These individuals are often perfect targets because their demise might even be seen as a public service, albeit an unofficial one. The rewards from these initial contracts are usually modest but provide a solid foundation. You'll likely earn enough gold to upgrade your basic gear, perhaps purchase some essential potions, or even invest in a better set of lockpicks. Don't scoff at these smaller payouts; they are the building blocks of your assassin career. Furthermore, successfully completing these less complex contracts helps you build your reputation within the Brotherhood. Each completed contract signals your competence and reliability, paving the way for more lucrative and challenging assignments later on. It's all about momentum. Getting a few clean kills under your belt early on boosts your confidence and your standing with figures like Arquen and others who will eventually guide you through the ranks. So, when you get those first few contracts, don't just rush in. Take a moment to scout your target, understand their routine, and plan your approach. A silent dagger in the dark is always better than a noisy brawl in broad daylight. Prioritize targets that offer a good balance of ease and reward, setting yourself up for bigger and better things down the line. These early kills are your training ground, your first steps into a much larger, and much bloodier, world.

Mid-Game Power Plays: High-Value Targets and Unique Loot

As you progress further into the Oblivion Remake and your skills with the Dark Brotherhood become more refined, it's time to aim for the bigger fish. Mid-game targets are typically more influential individuals, often residing in more secure locations or protected by guards. These assignments offer significantly higher rewards, both in terms of gold and often unique, powerful items. Think about mayors, guild leaders, influential mages, or even minor nobles. These targets are usually well-protected, meaning you’ll need to employ more advanced stealth tactics, utilize potions of invisibility, or perhaps even master illusion magic to bypass their security. The risk is higher, but the payoff is considerably greater. A successful mid-game contract could net you thousands of septims, a legendary weapon, or a piece of enchanted armor that drastically improves your character's stats. For example, eliminating a notoriously corrupt treasurer might yield not only a substantial gold reward but also access to their private vault, filled with valuable gems and ancient artifacts. These are the targets that can truly accelerate your progression in the game. Beyond the tangible loot, consider the strategic advantage of eliminating certain mid-game NPCs. Taking out a rival guild leader, for instance, could weaken their organization, potentially opening up opportunities for your own character or faction within the game world. Eliminating a powerful mage might disrupt a dangerous magical experiment or prevent a dark ritual. These actions, while driven by your Dark Brotherhood contract, can have significant positive ripple effects on the game's narrative and your overall experience. The Oblivion Remake often introduces intricate storylines where these NPC eliminations can unlock new dialogue options, reveal hidden lore, or even change the outcome of certain quests. Always be on the lookout for targets who might be involved in more complex political or magical machinations. These are the contracts that test your mettle as an assassin and reward you handsomely for your efforts. They require you to think beyond simple point-and-click elimination and engage with the game's world on a deeper level. So, when these more challenging contracts appear, embrace them. Plan meticulously, execute flawlessly, and reap the substantial rewards. These are the hits that define your rise within the Dark Brotherhood and truly equip you for the endgame.

Endgame Assassinations: The Ultimate Contracts and Their Rewards

Now, guys, we're talking about the big leagues. For the Oblivion Remake, endgame assassinations for the Dark Brotherhood are the pinnacle of your career. These are the contracts that are reserved for the most skilled and trusted assassins, the ones who have proven their worth time and time again. The targets at this stage are usually incredibly powerful, influential figures, often with elite guards and formidable magical defenses. We're talking about high-ranking officials, powerful sorcerers dabbling in forbidden magic, or even individuals with direct ties to dangerous Daedric cults. The risks involved are astronomical, and failure is not an option. However, the rewards are equally, if not more, staggering. Think massive gold payouts, incredibly rare and powerful enchanted items, and potentially, unique artifacts that can only be obtained through these high-stakes contracts. For instance, taking out a tyrannical Duke might not only shower you with gold but also grant you access to his ancestral blade, an artifact rumored to possess immense power. These contracts often involve infiltrating heavily fortified castles, ancient ruins, or magically sealed sanctuaries. You'll need every trick in your assassin's repertoire: master-level stealth, potent invisibility potions, powerful illusion spells, and top-tier combat gear. The Oblivion Remake will likely present these challenges with intricate environmental puzzles, cunning traps, and elite enemy patrols designed to test even the most seasoned player. Beyond the immediate material gains, endgame assassinations often have profound narrative consequences. Eliminating a key figure might destabilize a kingdom, end a tyrannical reign, or disrupt a catastrophic ritual that could have doomed the world. These are the hits that change the landscape of Oblivion, and your role in these events is paramount. Successfully completing these contracts not only solidifies your position as a legendary assassin but also allows you to witness and influence the most dramatic events in the game. Some of these targets might even be related to the main questline or secret factions, offering unique insights into the lore and politics of the game world. Remember, these endgame contracts are not just about killing; they are about making a statement. They are the ultimate test of your skills, your planning, and your commitment to the Dark Brotherhood. Approach them with the utmost seriousness, utilize all the knowledge and resources you've accumulated, and prepare for the most epic rewards and acknowledgments the game has to offer. This is where you truly become the embodiment of the Night Mother's will.