Since its initial release, The Elder Scrolls Online has undergone significant transformations. The introduction of the One Tamriel update, along with the implementation of year-long seasons and new Chapters resembling expansions, has contributed to its evolution. ESO has managed to surpass expectations and establish itself as one of the premier MMOs.

This is undoubtedly fantastic for the game, which is in the best condition it has ever been, but it can be quite daunting for players. This is particularly true for newcomers, which is why we are here. Our goal is to assist confused Khajiits in navigating the chaos, aid wandering warriors in overcoming false information, and support wandering mages in their magical pursuits.

Our Elder Scrolls Online Beginner’s Guide is designed to prepare you for an unforgettable adventure filled with peril, excitement, and awe.

Which edition of ESO should I purchase?

When it comes to beginning your journey in The Elder Scrolls Online, you have a variety of choices, and your purchases will largely depend on your interests and the experiences you wish to have in the game. While you might consider acquiring everything, here’s a brief overview of the three primary options available to you:

The Elder Scrolls Online: Basic Edition

This edition of the game features the original title along with the One Tamriel update and the Morrowind chapter. This allows you to jump straight into the action and explore the various main regions and storylines from both the original game and Morrowind. However, if you’re looking for additional content, you may want to consider…

The Elder Scrolls Online: Elsweyr expansion.

By choosing this edition, you’ll receive everything mentioned earlier, along with the opportunity to delve into the Summerset and Elsweyr chapters, their narratives, and regions. Additionally, you’ll gain access to the Necromancer class. This will bring you up to speed with the current content, but if you’re eager to experience what’s on the horizon, you’ll require…

The Elder Scrolls Online: Greymoor Expansion

The upcoming chapter of The Elder Scrolls Online is set to debut in June 2020. Titled Greymoor, this expansion will reveal hidden secrets from previously unexplored regions of Skyrim, inviting players to venture into the depths of Nirn to uncover ancient mysteries. For a comprehensive overview of the new features, be sure to read our article on What’s New.

There are three primary purchasing options accessible beyond the game, along with special and collector’s editions that offer additional cosmetic items. Nevertheless, a significant question arises as you begin your journey in The Elder Scrolls Online.

Is it worth it to sign up for ESO Plus?

In the end, the choice is yours. Numerous players enjoy countless hours of gameplay without spending any money, yet there are various benefits that make the subscription appealing, especially if your budget allows for it. Here’s what’s included:

  • Availability of all downloadable content packs
  • Endless storage for crafting materials.
  • Twin banking area
  • Monthly complimentary in-game currency
  • Additional gold and experience points
  • Bonus for crafting
  • Increased space for furniture storage.
  • Coloring for costumes
  • Additional transmutation crystals

One significant advantage is the ability to access all downloadable content (DLC). Purchasing DLC for The Elder Scrolls Online individually can become quite costly, making a subscription to ESO Plus for a month a more economical option. This allows players to experience the DLC content and then cancel the subscription afterward. Certain DLCs, like the Thieves Guild and Dark Brotherhood, offer lasting benefits even after the subscription ends, making it a practical strategy for those on a budget. However, for those with extra funds, a subscription is an excellent way to enhance the ESO experience.

Which races are available for me to choose from?

In The Elder Scrolls Online, players can select from ten distinct races, each offering unique advantages and traits. While we suggest picking a race that aligns with your desired character identity rather than solely concentrating on statistics, here’s a brief overview of the strengths of each race.

Daggerfall Alliance:

  • Orcs excel in stamina-based damage dealing and tanking roles, benefiting from their advantage in heavy armor.
  • Redguards are exceptional fighters who receive a significant boost to their stamina, making them ideal for tank positions or stamina-based damage dealer roles.
  • Bretons possess enhanced magicka and methods to recover depleted magicka, making them ideal for any class that relies on this resource, such as sorcerers or necromancers.

Aldmeri Dominion

  • High Elves receive enhancements to their magicka and spell damage, making them an ideal choice for any magicka damage-per-second class or configuration.
  • The Wood Elf excels in stamina, agility, and the ability to break stealth, making it the ideal choice for a Nightblade class.
  • Khajiit are versatile characters that excel in various aspects, receiving enhancements across the board. They are most effective when utilizing medium armor and focusing on inflicting damage.

Ebonheart Alliance

  • Nords possess impressive health, stamina, and defensive attributes, making them ideal tanks for any Ebonheart Pact.
  • Dark Elves receive enhancements to both stamina and magicka, making them well-suited for various roles that demand these attributes.
  • Argonians possess excellent health and magicka, along with a natural talent for using restoration staffs, making them ideal healers in any circumstance.

Neutral

  • Imperials are a high-end race that necessitates a particular purchase, which means that many players may choose not to play as them. However, they are able to align with any of the three factions, and with their impressive health and stamina attributes, they are well-suited for tank roles.

What courses can I choose from?

At present, ESO features six distinct classes that, while generally corresponding to the traditional roles of DPS, Healer, and Tank found in many MMORPGs, offer greater freedom and versatility. Players have the option to select their preferred weapons and extensively customize their abilities, ensuring that each class can be tailored to fit individual playstyles. Below is an overview of these classes:

  • The Dragonknight is mainly a warrior class, typically recognized as either tanks or damage dealers. They possess three distinct skill trees: Ardent Flame, Draconic Power, and Earthen Heart.
  • Nightblade excels in delivering high burst damage while also being adept at stealth. They possess three distinct skill trees: Assassination, Shadow, and Siphoning.
  • Sorcerers are the mage class in ESO, specializing in dealing damage through powerful spells, but they can also provide healing with some dedication. They possess three skill trees: Daedric Summoning, Storm Calling, and Dark Magic.
  • Templars are regarded as the top healers in the game, and like Paladins in other MMORPGs, they embody a versatile hybrid class. They possess three distinct skill trees: Aedric Spear, Dawn’s Wrath, and Restoring Light.
  • Introduced in the Morrowind chapter, Wardens are adept in the ways of nature. This versatile class features three distinct skill trees: Animal Companions, Green Balance, and Winter’s Embrace.
  • Introduced in Elsweyr, the Necromancer harnesses the power of the dead to unleash spells in combat. They possess three distinct skill trees: Grave Lord, Bone Tyrant, and Living Death.

By now, you should have a clearer understanding of what to expect in terms of purchases and character choices as you embark on your adventure in Elder Scrolls Online. If you have any inquiries, don’t hesitate to reach out in the comments section below, or connect with our fantastic community on the forums.