INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the expansive world of The Elder Scrolls Online! Whether you’re completely new to the game or returning after a significant hiatus, this guide is designed with you in mind. The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO) is a beloved game worldwide, boasting tens of millions of players and a rich lore rooted in over 20 years of previous Elder Scrolls games. It offers the thrill of exploration, the satisfaction of character progression, the excitement of combat and PVP, and the warm camaraderie of group gameplay. Join us as we embark on a comprehensive, step-by-step guide through this marvelous online universe.
WHAT IS THE ELDER SCROLLS ONLINE?
The Elder Scrolls Online is a Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game (MMORPG) developed by ZeniMax Online Studios and published by Bethesda Softworks. Being a part of the acclaimed Elder Scrolls franchise that began in 1994, ESO is set in the continent of Tamriel and gives players the freedom to go wherever they want, doing quests and exploring at their own pace.
Launched in 2014, ESO brought the immersive experience of the solo Elder Scrolls games into a shared world where players could interact with one another. The game offers a mix of open-world exploration, questing, dungeon delving, and PVP battles in dedicated areas or against other players in the open world.
HOW IT WORKS OR HOW TO GET STARTED
Getting started with ESO is straightforward. First, you purchase the game from an online store, such as Steam or the official ESO website. Next, you download and install the game. Once the installation is complete, you’ll create an ESO account (if you don’t have one already) and choose your server based on your geographical location.
Next, you’ll design your character. ESO offers a plethora of choices in terms of races, classes, and playable factions. Each race has unique abilities and passive skills, so choose carefully because your choice will influence your gameplay style. Then you select your class, which determines your character’s main abilities and skills.
You’ll begin your adventure in a starter zone, where you’ll learn the game mechanics through a series of introductory quests. This will lead you to bigger challenges and rewards as you gain experience and improve your abilities.
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY
To play ESO, all you need is a capable gaming PC or console (PS4/PS5, Xbox One/Xbox Series X|S). Also, a stable internet connection is required as it’s an online game. While ESO comes without a monthly subscription, an optional ESO Plus membership offers benefits like access to all DLC game packs, bonuses, and a monthly allotment of Crowns (the in-game currency) to spend in the store.
TIPS FOR BEGINNERS
1. **Join a Guild**: Being part of a guild offers numerous benefits such as group dungeons, guild stores, and a supportive community to learn from.
2. **Level-Up Your Skills**: Remember to use and upgrade your abilities regularly to level them up.
3. **Explore**: The world of Tamriel is vast and full of secret areas, quests, and treasures. Exploring is a big part of the game, so take your time to enjoy it.
4. **Read and Listen**: Since ESO is rich in lore, listening to NPC’s (Non-Player Characters) and reading books can enhance your gaming experience greatly.
5. **Crafting**: Learning and practicing crafting early on can help you save or make money and provide high-grade gear.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
The ESO community is active and supportive, with plenty of resources to aid newcomers. Websites like AlcastHQ and Dottz Gaming offer comprehensive build and gameplay guides. The official game forums and the ESO subreddit are great places for question-asking and getting advice. ESO-Database and UESP (Unofficial Elder Scrolls Pages) are perfect for in-depth lore and gameplay mechanics.
GLOSSARY: COMMON TERMS EXPLAINED
1. **MMORPG**: Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game. A genre of games where a large number of players interact in a virtual world.
2. **PvP/PvE**: Player vs Player/Player vs Environment. These terms describe the two main types of challenges in the game: fighting against other players or against the game’s AI-controlled monsters.
3. **NPC**: Non-Player Character. Characters controlled by the game’s AI that players can interact with, often providing quests or services.
4. **Dungeon**: Usually a closed-off area filled with enemies, traps, and bosses, often completed with a group of players for greater rewards.
5. **Guild**: A group of players who can chat, help, group, and trade with each other.
NEXT STEPS
Congratulations, you’re now ready to step into the rich and ever-evolving world of The Elder Scrolls Online. Be bold and dive right in! Remember, this is your personal Tamriel adventure. Whether you prefer role-playing with others, completing quests, exploring the world, or engaging in epic battles, ESO offers something for everyone. Take your time, explore, ask questions, join a guild, and most importantly, have fun! After all, your greatest adventures lie ahead.
