Okay. So I encountered the PS3 save glitch when I made a new character. No big deal... FML.

I had to restart. But honestly, I think it's one of the best things I've done. I've gone back into the game with more confidence with what I want to do with my character. I'm currently making my way through the the Mages College yet again with a level 6 Breton, and have over 10,000g in my pocket. I've apparently played for eighteen hours, but I think there's been a lot of standing time. I also simply like exploring...

I've also decided on the side I'd wish to take (Imperial or Stormcloak). I had a chance to listen to the story and conversation more, and have read a few books which have influenced my choice.

WARNING: SPOILERS. You've been WARNED.:

I don't like the Stormcloaks and I sympathise with the Imperials. There's something fishy about the Thalmor at the start of the game, and I'm under the impression that the general commanding for my head to be chopped off was just following orders/was under pressure from their presence.

I also discovered that [some of] the Imperials aren't too keen on the banning of Talos worship either - it's the Thalmor asking (read: telling) them to as part of keeping peace or some shit. I really don't like seeing the Thalmor having such a high presence everywhere in Skyrim and having that much power over people - they're not very nice elves.

Also, I think Ulric is a bit of an asshole. Check that ego out.