The Elder Scrolls Online (PC, PS4, Xbox One) finally opens the Summerset Isles as a new location in the new expansion chapter. There, the arrogant and snobbish High Elves reside. But who are they exactly, and why are they so unlikeable?
The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO) introduces a large new area in every expansion. There, you can experience new adventures and get to know the local inhabitants better. So far, important protagonists have included the Orcs in Orsinium and the Dark Elves in Morrowind. In the upcoming expansion Summerset, it is the High Elves’ turn.
In a detailed lore article with a video, the developers show what kind of people the pointy-eared ones are and how their condescending nature came to be.
The Elfiest Elves!
Those who know the previous Elder Scrolls games like Skyrim or Oblivion are surely familiar with the High Elves. However, the oldest of all Elf races is not only known for its impressive magic but also for the condescending and arrogant way in which they view all other races of Tamriel. In Skyrim, the High Elves were even nasty antagonists among the radical Thalmor.
In a blog entry with a video, the developers of ESO explain what’s behind the Elves and their mindset. The High Elves of Summerset originate from an even older Elf race that once settled on the islands. All other Elves, such as the Wood Elves and Dark Elves, also originally hail from Summerset and are considered distant cousins of the High Elves.
(High)Elves Are Superior!
Since the High Elves see themselves as the oldest race of Tamriel and as descendants of the Aedra deities, they consider all other races to be inherently inferior. At the same time, they strive for perfection to meet the mystically transcendent ideals of their ancestors. Hence, the island of Summerset is also a carefully designed paradise.
The seemingly untamed wilderness between the towering cities is carefully tamed. In the settlements, soaring towers dominate, the highest of which is the legendary Crystal Tower. The architecture itself is a solid testament to the superiority of the High Elves.
Yikes, Outsiders!
Since the High Elves do not like to see foreign, inferior races trampling around in their carefully tended “garden,” the Summerset Isle has been closed to all non-High Elves until recently. However, the liberal and progressive young Queen Ayrenn has recently opened the borders.
Since then, all other races have been curiously flocking to Summerset, and many High Elves are left horrified! What are all these dirty, cultureless outsiders doing here? They’re ruining everything! Other Elves, on the other hand, are just as curious as Ayrenn and welcome the new ideas of the immigrants.
In this climate of conflict between progress and conservatism, the story of Summerset begins and promises many interesting stories.
