Elder Scrolls Online Raises the Combat Standard for TES 6

If you find yourself yearning for more Elder Scrolls action while awaiting the release of TES6, diving into The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO) could be your perfect remedy. This expansive MMORPG seamlessly blends the captivating lore and regular updates reminiscent of its single-player counterparts. It deepens the mythos without hesitation, particularly shining in its combat system, which surely sets a lofty benchmark for The Elder Scrolls 6.

The release of ESO was perfectly timed, coming out three years after the triumph of Skyrim. It was exactly what players craved, offering new adventures in the form of canon Second-Era lore. The game’s multiplayer nature has fostered a dedicated community, which remained robust with over 9,000 monthly online players as of 2024. Much of this success can be attributed to its regular events, like the popular Gold Road Expansion, packed with substantial lore updates and unique features.

In the vibrant world of ESO, players get to encounter an array of creatures throughout Tamriel. The game’s bestiary is vast and varied, featuring beasts never before seen in previous titles, alongside some returning for the first time since games like Daggerfall. Of these, the Quasigriff stands out: a creature with four legs and no wings, related to the Gryphon and seen as statues in other games like TES Blades and TES Castles. There are also the Welwa, four-eyed creatures resembling large marsupials, tamed by Iron Orcs for use as war mounts across Summerset Isles, Hammerfell, and Yokuda. Meanwhile, the Lamia present a more intimidating presence with their serpentine lower halves and humanoid torsos, adorned with scales, fangs, and horns.

For the upcoming TES 6, which is anticipated to explore only one province, the diversity of creatures might be less varied than in ESO. If TES 6 is set in Hammerfell, it wouldn’t make much sense to see creatures native to regions such as Morrowind or Black Marsh. Yet, potential solutions could enhance this aspect. Allowing players to journey across different provinces could enrich the experience, though this risks shifting focus from the central province. Alternatively, introducing regional variations of existing creatures—like the Guar’s various breeds—could offer a refreshing take on familiar foes.

The diversity in ESO’s creatures breathes life into its combat, with each battle presenting unique animations and strategies. This diversity contributes to a lively, ever-expanding world where each province offers its own set of challenges and wonders. If The Elder Scrolls 6 could incorporate such a variety, either by broadening the geographical scope or reimagining creatures creatively, it would create an incredibly immersive and diverse experience for players exploring Tamriel. Delivering on this promise could truly set the next Elder Scrolls adventure apart.