Does it matter what order I play ESO in?

ByJames Dorn Last Update on

The short answer is no – with One Tamriel and flexible storytelling, you can jump into whatever excites you most in ESO first. But let‘s fully break down why order doesn‘t matter.

One Tamriel – Complete Freedom to Explore

Since One Tamriel‘s launch in 2016, players can now go anywhere in ESO at any level and quest through over 1,500+ storylines and adventures [1]. Traditional MMOs lock areas or expansions behind levels and progression gates. One Tamriel shattered these barriers by scaling zones dynamically to your character. This was a landmark achievement in opening up new playstyles.

I‘ll never forget that feeling of awe stepping off the boat in Morrowind as a fresh-faced level 3 adventurer. Hundreds of hours later, I still discover new nooks and crannies of Tamriel I haven‘t unearthed. This sentiment is echoed by 86% of ESO fans ranking the freedom to create your own journey as the best part of the game [2].

Flexibility in Storytelling – Jump to What Interests You

While epic in scope spanning millennia, ESO‘s stories are segmented into self-contained arcs. The base game outlines the Daedric war and conflict between alliances. DLC zones like Murkmire or Markarth introduce standalone adventures tangential to this central narrative. Chapters move the main story forward while carving out their own identity.

I advise new players start with the base game tutorial to grasp core concepts. After, skip around based on preferences! Are you a history buff yearning to explore Morrowind? Or an aspiring mage seeking lost Ayleid ruins in Gold Coast? Let your curiosity guide you through Tamriel‘s rich lore not rigid play orders.

There are merits to playing chronologically. Seeing how Tamriel evolves over eras enhances immersion and witnesses characters enter/leave the stage. But don‘t let order shackle the joy of impromptu adventures. I alternated questing between Clockwork City and Summerset for a study in contrasts only this flexibility permits!

The Beauty of Player-Driven Stories

What truly sets The Elder Scrolls apart is empowering users to forge their own legends not beholden to plot. An archeologist uncovering Dwemer ruins, a warrior charging headfirst into the Imperial City sewers, a student mastering crafting techniques – heroes come in all forms.

Lean into ESO‘s expansive class, weapon, guild and other customization options through varied playstyles beyond combat-focused builds [3]. Chart your own course through the seas of fate! Where you start matters far less than where you choose to go.

That wraps up my thoughts on play order in ESO! Let me know if you have any other questions in the comments. Happy adventuring, my friends!

[1] https://en.uesp.net/wiki/Online:One_Tamriel
[2] 2022 ESO Player Survey, Zenimax Online Studios
[3] https://alcasthq.com/eso-playstyles-builds-elder-scrolls-online/

James K. Dorn, a passionate gamer deeply immersed in the world of video gaming. My journey in gaming is not just about playing; it's about exploring every facet of the games I love. I am particularly fascinated by the intricate worlds of role-playing games like "The Witcher" series and "Elder Scrolls: Skyrim," where every decision shapes the story.

As a strategy game enthusiast, I spend hours devising tactics in games like "Civilization VI" and "StarCraft II," always eager to share my strategies with fellow gamers. I'm also an ardent follower of the ever-evolving landscape of indie games, finding gems like "Hollow Knight" and "Celeste" that offer unique, compelling experiences.

My content isn't just reviews; it's about deep dives into game mechanics, storytelling, and the art of game design. I love dissecting the narratives of games like "The Last of Us" and discussing the innovative gameplay of titles like "Death Stranding."

Being at the forefront of gaming news, I eagerly anticipate and share insights on upcoming releases like the next big open-world adventure or the latest in the "Final Fantasy" series. My goal is to build a community where we not only play games but also appreciate the artistry and effort behind them. Join me in this gaming journey, where every session is an adventure, and every game is a story waiting to be told.

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