That's one major downside to the way skills are in Oblivion. For example, I can't see my character using anything other than a Blade, so the other two skills (Blunt and Hand to Hand) in the Strength category are basically worthless to me.
However, in order to get the full +5 bonus to Strength on a level up, I have to train some in either or both, in order to get enough skill advancement in Strength-related skills (as I'm not going to advance the full 10 points in Blade). So, it basically forces you to play a little out of character for just a short time, if you want the full advantage of a level up.
So, usually at the start of a new level, I'll strap on some heavy steel armor, grab a big mace, and go play with some Mud Crabs on the beach for a bit for the Heavy Armor, Block, and Armorer training for Endurance, then, wearing the same, go to a non-quest dungeon and bash on some nasties with the Mace, or my fists if they aren't too nasty...
After a few of these skill gains, I can then go back to playing my sneaky guy, without worrying about not getting my 5/5/1 advancement...
|