Since the victory of the Empire or the Stormcloaks depends on which side you choose in game, let's assume that they are are fairly equal in strength. At the very least, let us assume that the faction that the Empire has in Skyrim is approximately as strong (or as weak) as the Stormcloak rebellion under Ulfric. So we have that, both armies are equal, so if they were to join together their total strength would undoubtedly be significantly increased. Now let's look at the real threat looming over Tamariel, The Aldemeri Dominion. They are extremely powerful. As Lachdonin pointed out, "the only reason Talos, the god-king of the Nords, managed to beat the Aldmiri Domminon in the first place (Or at least as easially as he did) was because of the Numidium". Tibur Septim was only able to defeat the Aldemeri because of an ultimate weapon. How can anyone possibly think that one province can defeat the Aldmeri Dominian when only 30 years prior to the game, the entire Empire (Skyrim included) barely did? The Nords might be able to push them out, but they surely will not be able to keep them off permanently. A book in game told me that Skyrim was integral to winning the Great War. Without its support, the Empire would most likely fall, and Skyrim, being cornered on all sides would fall in suit. The Thalmor are military and political masterminds. It will take the support of every province available to wipe them out, and since the Empire is already an established system connecting three provinces, it makes since to keep that system intact rather than weakening it. In fact, a dossier found in the Thalmor embassy reveals the Ulfric's convenient get away was planned by the Thalmor. They want him to keep the rebellion going because (surprise, surprise) it's weakening the empire. Also, anyone who thinks the Thalmor and the Empire are comfortably working together is misguided. Talking to NPCs reveals that tensions are high, and both side acknowledge that a final battle is in the future. The Stormcloaks think they are getting rid of tyrants by pushing out the Imperials, but they fail to realize that the real tyrants are the Thalmor, and the Imperials are only trying to keep peace while they can regroup and get a solid enough army and plan together to wipe the Aldemeri Dominion off the planet. The Stormcloak rebellion accomplishes nothing but hindering this goal. Anyone who is for freedom and is against tyranny needs to support the Empire until the Thalmor threat is neutralized. Speaking of tyranny, let's take a look at Ulfric. What famous historical figure does he remind you of? A recent treaty following a Great War has just caused his country a lot of strife without letting them negotiate terms. Under the guise of nationalism, he uses his charisma to gain the trust of his people and lead a revolution thrusting himself to a seat of power. Any extended conversation with him reveals his huge ego, and makes one wonder if he's not just another power hungry tyrant. He's also extremely racist, and most likely in favor of racial cleansing leaving only the Nords (a typically blond haired, blue eyed people) to rule. If you want me to spell it out for you, I will. He's f***ing Hitler! Do you really want this nutjob ruling Skyrim? My proposed idea is this. Let the Dragonborn bring the Stormcloaks and the Imperials together. However, somehow lead the Thalmor to believe that the civil war is still on, or at least that the Empire is severely weakened. (Another alternative is having the empire feign a surrender to Skyrim and then have the Dragonborn placed as "High King". This would cause the Thalmor to think that the Empire is devided and give the Empire the element of surprise.) Then, appeal to Hammerfell and get them back on the Empire's side, but not necessarily under its control. With the Dragonborn at the helm, rape the Aldmeri Dominion. Then when everyone sees his greatness, he will be placed as rightful emperor, and the Empire will be restored to its former glory. Talos worship will be legal, the provinces will return to being semi-independent entities, and everything will be peachy. All arguments aside, who thinks an Elder Scrolls based on the 2nd Great War would be awesome? If the next generation of systems can handle processing full scale battles, I think it would be pretty badass.
