In the fantasy MMO The Elder Scrolls Online, the announced justice system has now been detailed.
The justice system is probably what the “Elder Scrolls” series has and what the online spin-off TESO lacks the most. While in the single-player games the supposed heroes can fully indulge their kleptomaniac tendencies, that hasn’t been possible in The Elder Scrolls Online until now. However, that is set to change, as we have known for a few months.
Now further details about the so-called justice system have become known. There are to be three crimes:
- Theft – Either one robs NPCs directly through pickpocketing or takes their possessions in the world. With the new changes, Tamriel is set to become significantly more interactive, with even more clickable objects.
- Burglary or unauthorized entry – In every city, there should be NPC homes that can be robbed and plundered. To do so, one must first gain access and should better not get caught in the process.
- Murder – Currently, the plans foresee that players can attack any NPC, but can only kill almost everyone. Merchants, quest NPCs, and those responsible for travel cannot be killed.
And how do NPCs in The Elder Scrolls Online react to these crimes?
For these crimes to have consequences, TESO is introducing a series of systems. NPCs are to react to criminals according to their nature. Some flee, while others will defend themselves. Surprises are planned: A seemingly easy target could turn out to be a veritable werewolf. This is intended to make the world more vibrant and unpredictable.
Moreover, the city guards will initiate the pursuit, and nearby guards should also respond when their comrades chase a fleeing criminal. This “heat,” or the attention generated after a fresh crime that attracts the guards, is expected to fade relatively quickly. However, a criminal accumulates a sort of bounty, which then “Enforcers,” other players in the service of the law, can hunt.
Players can sign up for this service for justice by putting on a tabard – this will also mark them for open world PvP.
The system is not only intended to be a pure “cat and mouse” game between criminals and law enforcers, but it is planned to be more complex – with a “capture the flag” mechanic (the return of stolen goods) or tracking down thieves’ hideouts.
Furthermore, criminals and law enforcers are to receive their own skill lines.
In recent days, a guild summit took place at the headquarters of Zenimax, where the developers of The Elder Scrolls Online laid their cards on the table and discussed plans for the coming months and perhaps even years. This article is part of our coverage of it. More about the MMO TESO can be found on our topic page.
