The Elder Scrolls Online
Setting: Fantasy | Entwickler: Zenimax Online | Plattform: PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S | Release-Datum: April 4th., 2014 | Modell: Buy2Play
What kind of game is it? The Elder Scrolls Online is not a classic MMORPG, as it focuses heavily on the single-player aspect. For example, you can travel to any area of the Tamriel game world at any level, as you are automatically scaled to the maximum level in the background.
ESO is particularly impressive with its unique story and game world setting. There are many iconic locations that are already familiar from the Elder Scrolls games, as well as the well-known compass instead of a minimap.
The game offers:
- A huge game world
- Fully voiced quests and exciting stories
- Varied dungeons
- Server-versus-server PvP
- An extensive housing system
- Regular updates, at least one every quarter
The Elder Scrolls Online relies on an action combat system that divides opinion. Some find it particularly good, while others find it lacking in power and precision.
ESO has also been criticized for its performance, which is not particularly impressive in some new areas and the PvP zone Cyrodiil. In addition, many DLCs and the all-important crafting bag are now required, which virtually forces new players to subscribe to ESO.
On top of that, there are technical problems. And the new season system doesn’t convince everyone either, as can be seen from the mixed reviews on Steam.
How well does ESO play on console? ESO plays very smoothly and intuitively on console. With few skills to master, the combat system is perfectly suited to controller controls. Graphically, the PlayStation and Xbox versions have taken a big step forward with the next-gen upgrade.
ESO does not (yet) offer cross-play with PC, which is why the console version is always a few days behind. DLCs and expansions are often delayed by 1–2 weeks on consoles due to the unlocking process.
What has happened recently? In 2025, Elder Scrolls Online moved away from the content roadmap of DLCs and chapters that had been in place for years. Instead, there will be seasons in the future, the first of which, Seasons of the Wormcult, launched in June 2025 – and has also been available on consoles for a while.
If you want to experience all the content of the current season, you need the Season Pass.
Who will enjoy ESO? ESO is a treat for all solo players, fans of action-packed combat systems, and, of course, nerds who simply love the world of The Elder Scrolls. Thanks to scaling, players can jump right into the latest content if they want and play with friends, no matter when they started.
The action-packed combat system and exploration of the huge game world make for a lot of fun. This is only marred by the lack of MMO feel and performance issues in certain areas. There is also some criticism from veterans, which we have summarized here: ESO is getting better and better for new players, but they are forgetting the veterans.
