the elder scrolls online review

The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO) Review Platforms: PC, PlayStation, Xbox Developer: ZeniMax Online Studios Publisher: Bethesda Softworks Release Date: April 4, 2014 (with regular expansions and updates) Overview The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO) is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) set in the beloved Elder Scrolls universe. Initially met with mixed reviews at launch, ESO has evolved significantly over the years, becoming one of the most content-rich and player-friendly MMORPGs available today. Gameplay & Mechanics Combat: A hybrid of traditional Elder Scrolls action combat and MMO mechanics, featuring light/heavy attacks, blocking, dodging, and skill-based abilities. Classes & Builds: Six unique classes (Dragonknight, Sorcerer, Nightblade, Templar, Warden, Necromancer), each with deep customization options. Questing: Fully voice-acted quests with meaningful choices, far surpassing typical MMO fetch quests. Exploration: A vast open world with seamless zones, dungeons, and hidden lore books, capturing the Elder Scrolls sandbox feel. Multiplayer Features: 4-player dungeons, 12-player trials (raids), PvP in Cyrodiil (massive siege battles) and Imperial City (small-scale PvPvE). Pros: Rich Storytelling Expansions like Morrowind, Summerset, and Greymoor deliver high-quality Elder Scrolls lore. Solo-Friendly Unlike many MMOs, ESO is enjoyable alone, with extensive solo questing and exploration. No Pay-to-Win The Crown Store sells cosmetics and convenience, not power. Regular Updates Frequent DLCs and expansions keep the game fresh. One Tamriel System All zones scale to your level, allowing free exploration. Cons: Combat Can Feel Repetitive Some players find the animation-canceling meta tedious. Inventory Management Without ESO Plus (subscription), inventory space is restrictive. Performance Issues Occasional lag in PvP and crowded areas. Steep Learning Curve New players may feel overwhelmed by systems like crafting and Champion Points. Expansions & DLCs ESO follows a "Chapter + DLC" model, with major expansions like: Morrowind (2017) Introduced Vvardenfell and the Warden class. Summerset (2018) Added the Psijic Order and jewelry crafting. Elsweyr (2019) Dragons and the Necromancer class. Greymoor (2020) Skyrim-based vampire storyline. Blackwood (2021) Oblivion-inspired adventure. High Isle (2022) Political intrigue in the Systres Archipelago. Necrom (2023) Apocrypha and the Arcanist class. Verdict: 9/10 The Elder Scrolls Online has grown into one of the best MMORPGs, offering a perfect blend of Elder Scrolls storytelling and MMO depth. While combat and performance issues hold it back slightly, its constant updates, solo-friendly design, and rich world make it a must-play for fans of the franchise or MMOs in general. Best For: Elder Scrolls fans who want multiplayer Tamriel. Players who enjoy story-driven MMOs. Those who prefer horizontal progression (gear doesnt become obsolete quickly). Not Ideal For: Players seeking ultra-hardcore raiding (like WoW Mythic). Those who dislike subscription-based convenience (ESO Plus for crafting bag). Would you like a more detailed breakdown of any specific aspect (PvP, crafting, endgame)?