The Elder Scrolls® Online
Action
Adventure
Massively Multiplayer
RPG
Multi-player
MMO
PvP
Online PvP
Co-op
Online Co-op
Steam Trading Cards
Captions available
In-App Purchases
Camera Comfort
Custom Volume Controls
Playable without Timed Input
Stereo Sound
Surround Sound
Partial Controller Support
HDR available
Family Sharing

Every legend starts somewhere and in The Elder Scrolls Online, it starts with you. Join millions of players in an online, fantasy RPG set in a vast living Elder Scrolls world.

Developers: ZeniMax Online Studios
Publishers: Bethesda Softworks
Release Date: May 22, 2017
Price (USD): $19.99
Current Players: 11k

Links:  Steam Store  SteamDB

Very Positive(81%)
open world
voice acting
character customization
rich lore
social community
subclassing
content updates
gameplay variety
aggressive monetization
technical issues
lack of class identity
server instability
long queue times
The general sentiment of the reviews reflects contentment with the game's vast, immersive world and strong narrative roots in Elder Scrolls lore, praise for the voice acting and quest variety, and appreciation for the active and helpful community. However, significant criticism is directed at the game's aggressive monetization practices, technical stability issues, and controversial mechanic changes such as subclassing, which many feel undermines traditional class identity. Overall, the game remains a compelling option for Elder Scrolls fans, though its full enjoyment comes at a cost, both financially and in terms of navigating its evolving gameplay landscape.

Positive Points

  • The game offers a vast open world with plenty of exploration potential, appealing to fans of Elder Scrolls lore and RPG elements.
  • Voice acting is commendable, with quests being fully voiced, enhancing immersion.
  • Character customization is highly flexible, allowing players to blend different classes and skills to create unique builds.
  • The community is generally welcoming and helpful, and the game is solo-friendly, allowing players to enjoy vast content independently.
  • Negative Points

  • Monetization practices are heavily criticized, as many players feel forced to subscribe or pay for basic conveniences like an unlimited craft bag.
  • Technical issues such as game crashes, unreliable servers, and large, cumbersome downloads are frequent sources of frustration.
  • Subclassing and the lack of class identity have received backlash for removing traditional roles and diluting gameplay variety.
  • PVP is often reported as unbalanced, with players citing long queue times and a prevalent meta leading to unvaried gameplay.
  • Mixed Points

  • While ESO gives players the freedom to explore and develop their characters, many find this freedom offset by repetitive quest designs and grind-heavy mechanics.
  • Although the game periodically updates with new content, criticism arises about the substantive value and innovation of recent expansions.
  • The combat system is disparaged by some as feeling floaty and lacking impact, yet others appreciate its action-based mechanics.
  • Common Themes

  • The Elder Scrolls Online is lauded for its expansive world and rich lore deeply rooted in the Elder Scrolls universe.
  • There is a consistent tension between the enjoyment of the base game and the frustration over its monetization models.
  • Players feel divided about recent game changes, with some appreciating content updates while others view them as dilutions of core gameplay principles.
  • The community aspect is strong, but technical challenges frequently impede game enjoyment.
  • Updated 2/7/2026, 12:01:23 AM UTC