Destruction magic focuses on dealing damage to enemies. It includes spells for fire, frost, and shock damage, making it one of the most versatile combat skills in Skyrim.
Spell Schools
Destruction spells are divided into three elements: Fire, Frost, and Shock. Each has unique effects and can be combined for powerful results.
Fire Spells
Fire spells deal damage over time and are effective against most enemies. They can also cause enemies to flee in panic.
Notable Fire Spells
- Flames - A basic fire spell that deals continuous damage
- Firebolt - A projectile that deals fire damage
- Fireball - An area-of-effect spell that explodes on impact
- Incinerate - A powerful single-target fire spell
- Wall of Flames - Creates a wall of fire that damages enemies passing through
Frost Spells
Frost spells deal damage and slow enemies, making them easier to hit. They are especially effective against fire-based enemies.
Notable Frost Spells
- Frostbite - A basic frost spell that deals damage and slows enemies
- Ice Spike - A projectile that deals frost damage
- Ice Storm - An area-of-effect spell that damages and slows enemies
- Blizzard - A powerful area spell that deals massive frost damage
Shock Spells
Shock spells deal instant damage and drain magicka from enemies. They are effective against mages and have no travel time.
Notable Shock Spells
- Sparks - A basic shock spell that deals continuous damage
- Lightning Bolt - A projectile that deals instant shock damage
- Chain Lightning - A spell that jumps between multiple enemies
- Thunderbolt - A powerful single-target shock spell
Dual Casting
With the appropriate perk, you can dual cast destruction spells for increased damage and effectiveness. This makes destruction magic even more powerful in combat.
Perks
The Destruction skill tree includes perks that increase damage, reduce magicka cost, and add special effects to spells. Investing in these perks is essential for a destruction mage build.