In the world of Skyrim, mastering the arcane arts of Conjuration allows players to summon all manner of creatures, from spectral warriors to deadly atronachs. Among the more sinister options available to necromancers and dark magic users is the Conjure Putrid Zombie spell. This unique and unsettling spell adds a grotesque twist to the summoning family by allowing players to raise a decayed, toxic corpse from the ground to fight on their behalf. Unlike typical reanimated undead, the Putrid Zombie comes with a special mechanic that sets it apart: an explosive death effect that can turn the tide of battle.
Understanding the Conjure Putrid Zombie Spell
Conjure Putrid Zombie is a Conjuration spell introduced in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Anniversary Edition or via the Necromantic Grimoire Creation. This powerful spell enables players to summon a foul-smelling, decomposing zombie to fight for them temporarily. While its appearance may be off-putting, its utility in combat is quite valuable, especially against groups of enemies.
Spell Basics
- School: Conjuration
- Casting Time: One-handed cast (can be dual cast)
- Magicka Cost: Moderate, depends on Conjuration level and perks
- Duration: 60 seconds (unless extended by perks or gear)
- Effect: Summons a Putrid Zombie to aid the player in combat
When the zombie dies or the spell ends, it explodes in a burst of poisonous gas, damaging nearby enemies. This secondary effect makes it a great tactical tool when facing tightly packed enemy groups.
How to Acquire the Spell
To use Conjure Putrid Zombie, players must first acquire the spell tome. This spell is not found in base Skyrim, so players need access to content from the Creation Club specifically the Necromantic Grimoire pack or Anniversary Edition.
Where to Find the Spell Tome
- Vendors: Certain court wizards and necromancer-friendly merchants may sell the tome once the content is installed.
- Loot Drops: Occasionally found in necromancer dungeons or as quest rewards.
- Summoner Enemies: Some hostile necromancers may drop the spell book upon defeat.
If you’re looking to focus your character build around necromancy, finding this spell early will provide a valuable asset for your arsenal. Remember to level up your Conjuration skill to reduce its cost and increase effectiveness.
Combat Uses and Strategy
Putrid Zombies serve as excellent frontline distractions, soaking up hits and keeping enemies focused while the player casts spells or attacks from range. However, their explosive death mechanic is what really makes them shine.
Effective Combat Scenarios
- Against Groups: Send the zombie into clustered enemies its death explosion deals AoE poison damage.
- Choke Points: Summon it in narrow corridors or doorways to block enemies while damaging them upon death.
- Stealth Builds: Use the zombie to start combat, then disappear while enemies are distracted.
Since the Putrid Zombie is a summoned creature, it benefits from Conjuration perks like Twin Souls, Atromancy, and Dark Souls, making it even more potent with proper investment.
Synergy with Other Abilities
Combining the Putrid Zombie with other spells or effects can significantly enhance its usefulness. Players who experiment with combo tactics often find that this spell plays a key role in controlling the battlefield.
Useful Combinations
- Poison Rune: Stack poison effects for deadly area damage.
- Frenzy or Fear: Cast crowd control on enemies, then send the zombie to finish them off.
- Necromage (Restoration Perk): Boost undead allies, including summoned zombies, by 25% if you’re a vampire.
Additionally, gear that reduces Conjuration cost or increases summon duration can make this spell more efficient in long encounters or dungeon runs.
Putrid Zombie vs Reanimate Corpse
Many necromancers may wonder how the Putrid Zombie compares to the standard reanimation spells available in the vanilla game. While both serve similar purposes bringing undead to fight for you there are key differences.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Putrid Zombie | Reanimate Corpse |
|---|---|---|
| Requires Corpse? | No | Yes |
| Death Effect | Explodes on death | None |
| Summon Location | Anywhere | On existing body |
| Control | Full conjure control | Limited by corpse type |
The ability to summon the zombie without a body makes it much more flexible, especially in boss fights or locations without corpses nearby.
Visual and Audio Design
The Putrid Zombie lives up to its name in both looks and sound. Its decaying flesh, slow shuffle, and gurgling growls make it one of the more unsettling summons in the game. This aesthetic adds immersion for those pursuing a dark or corrupted character arc.
Players who enjoy roleplaying evil mages, vampire lords, or Daedra-worshipping summoners will find this creature fits perfectly within that style. Its disturbing design also helps intimidate enemies both in-game and narratively.
Tips for Mastering the Spell
To get the most out of Conjure Putrid Zombie, focus on leveling your Conjuration skill and choosing perks that align with your playstyle. Practice summoning during downtime to maintain efficiency and awareness of enemy placement.
Helpful Tips
- Always use in tight encounters for maximum explosion value.
- Keep your zombie away from allies to avoid friendly fire from the death burst.
- Use the zombie as bait to lure enemies into traps or chokepoints.
- Dual-cast to increase duration, especially with the Atromancy perk.
With enough experience, the Putrid Zombie becomes more than just a throwaway summon it becomes a core tool in your necromantic strategy.
The Conjure Putrid Zombie spell in Skyrim offers a fresh and horrifying twist on traditional summoning magic. By combining solid melee capability with a damaging death explosion, it adds both utility and spectacle to your arsenal. Whether you’re exploring haunted catacombs, fighting off bandits, or engaging in large-scale battles, the Putrid Zombie brings chaos and poison in equal measure. For those embracing the darker side of magic in Skyrim, it’s a spell that is as effective as it is fearsome. Equip it, master it, and let your enemies rot in the wake of your unholy power.