ASkyrimplayer recently shared a funny clip showing the exact moment they fell prey to an unexpected trap. WhileSkyrimisn’t generally a scary game, threats sometimes appear when players least expect them. This short but humorous video provides an excellent reminder for anyone who’s forgotten about that.
Bethesda Softworks releasedThe Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrimon July 17, 2025, and it really doesn’t need much of an introduction. The first-person open-world action RPG had a massive impact on the world of gaming and helped propel Bethesda to the forefront of AAA game publishing and development. After over a decade and multiple re-releases later,Skyrimcontinues to be massively popular with a large and highly dedicated fanbase.
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Reddit user andSkyrimfan RocketBabyDoii uploaded a short clip from her currentSkyrimplaythrough. As her character explores one ofSkyrim’s many caves, eagle-eyed viewers may notice the pink Soul Gem hovering a few inches above a small stone pillar. However, RocketBabyDoii did not, proceeding down the steps as she scanned the walls for treasure and threats. Just as her character glances away, the Soul Gem trap activates, shooting her avatar with a bolt of ice. Viewers can watch as she swings her weapon through the air in momentary panic before realizing the source of the attack.
Many fellow users in theSkyrimsubreddit were able to sympathize with RocketBabyDoii’s humorous plight. The top comment describesSkyrim’s unshielded Soul Gem traps as “one of the most terrifying things I’ve ever encountered in the entire game.” The commenter said that while they can handleSkyrim’s Dragons or hordes of undead Draugr, they draw the line at fireballs launched from inanimate objects.
Other players shared their similar dislike for the small, pink deathtraps. The magic crystals can be pretty devastating for even relatively high-level players, occasionally resulting in a one-hit kill.Skyrimplayers also complained of the traps’ randomness and how they can never tell whether they’ve set off an inconsequential ice spell or a devastating chain-lightning attack. One Reddit user even pointed out how similar wards are among the most dangerousspells inDungeons and Dragonsdue to the inability to see them coming.
Skyrimplayers can quickly disarm Soul Gem traps by shooting them will a spell or arrow. However, that requires players are actually able to see and target theSoul Gemin question. A shiny, pink, floating crystal might seem like it would stand out. However, they can be pretty hard to spot when they’re small, far away, and in front of a visually cluttered background.
The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim - Anniversary Editionis out now for PC, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
