# The Elder Scrolls Online: Summerset

> 2018 expansion pack

**Wikidata**: [Q108871552](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q108871552)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/the-elder-scrolls-online-summerset

## Summary
*The Elder Scrolls Online: Summerset* is a 2018 expansion pack for the massively multiplayer online role-playing game *The Elder Scrolls Online*, developed by ZeniMax Online Studios and published by Bethesda Softworks. It introduces players to the Summerset Isles, a new region within the fictional continent of Tamriel, and continues the narrative and gameplay evolution of the base game. The expansion was released globally on May 21, 2018, for Microsoft Windows, macOS, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One.

## Key Facts
- Released on May 21, 2018, worldwide for Microsoft Windows, macOS, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One.
- Developed by ZeniMax Online Studios, founded in 2007 and based in Hunt Valley, Maryland, United States.
- Published by Bethesda Softworks, established in 1986 and headquartered in Rockville, Maryland.
- Part of the *The Elder Scrolls* media franchise, set within the fictional universe of Tamriel.
- Expands gameplay into the Summerset Isles, a new playable region featuring new zones, quests, and mechanics.
- Available on digital platforms including Steam, with distribution formats including digital download and optical disc.
- Supports multiple input devices: computer keyboard, mouse, and gamepad.
- Rated with an ESRB ID of 35542 and carries a critic average score of 79/100 from Kritikanstvo and 80/100 from CriticDB.
- Features cross-platform support across Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S.
- Includes full voice acting and localization in English, Russian, French, and German.
- Winner of the GLAAD Media Award, highlighting its inclusive storytelling.
- Based on the *The Elder Scrolls Online* base game, which it extends as an add-on chapter.
- Narrative takes place within the *The Elder Scrolls* universe, specifically focusing on the Summerset Isles.
- Distributed through major digital storefronts such as Steam.
- Has received recognition from gaming databases including VGChartz, Metacritic, RAWG, and HowLongToBeat.

## FAQs
### What is *The Elder Scrolls Online: Summerset*?
It is a 2018 expansion pack for *The Elder Scrolls Online*, introducing the Summerset Isles as a new playable region. It adds new quests, characters, and gameplay features to the base game.

### Who developed and published it?
It was developed by ZeniMax Online Studios, an American game development company founded in 2007, and published by Bethesda Softworks, a major American video game publisher since 1986.

### On which platforms is it available?
It is available on Microsoft Windows, macOS, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S.

### What languages does it support?
It supports English, Russian, French, and German, with full voice acting and text localization.

### What awards has it won?
It received the GLAAD Media Award, recognizing inclusive and diverse representation in gaming.

### What is its narrative setting?
The expansion is set in the Summerset Isles, a region in the *The Elder Scrolls* universe, focusing on the Altmer (High Elves) and their culture.

### How was it distributed?
It was distributed digitally via platforms like Steam and physically through optical discs.

### What is its ESRB rating?
It is rated under ESRB ID 35542, indicating it is suitable for a general audience with fantasy violence and mild language.

### What input devices does it support?
It supports keyboard, mouse, and gamepad for PC and console versions.

### Is it part of a larger series?
Yes, it is part of the *The Elder Scrolls* franchise and serves as an expansion chapter for *The Elder Scrolls Online*.

## Why It Matters
*The Elder Scrolls Online: Summerset* represents a significant evolution in the *Elder Scrolls* series by expanding the online multiplayer experience into new cultural and narrative territories. It introduces players to the High Elves of the Summerset Isles, offering a deep dive into their society, politics, and history. This expansion not only enriches the lore of the *Elder Scrolls* universe but also demonstrates the continued relevance of MMORPGs in delivering expansive, story-driven experiences. Its recognition with the GLAAD Media Award underscores its commitment to inclusive storytelling, setting a precedent for representation in the genre. As part of *The Elder Scrolls Online*, it contributes to the ongoing success of one of the longest-running MMORPGs in the industry.

## Notable For
- First major expansion to introduce the Summerset Isles, a region previously unexplored in *The Elder Scrolls* series.
- Winner of the GLAAD Media Award for inclusive and diverse storytelling.
- Cross-platform availability across current-gen consoles and PC.
- Introduction of new gameplay mechanics including the Psijic Order and crafting improvements.
- Full localization and voice acting in multiple languages including English, French, German, and Russian.
- Continuation of the *Elder Scrolls Online* narrative with deep lore integration and character development.
- High critical reception, scoring 80/100 on CriticDB and 79/100 on Kritikanstvo.
- Distributed through major platforms like Steam, ensuring wide accessibility.
- Features a richly detailed region inspired by Arthurian and Celtic mythos, distinct from previous *Elder Scrolls* settings.

## Body

### Development and Release
*The Elder Scrolls Online: Summerset* was developed by ZeniMax Online Studios, a Maryland-based game development company founded in 2007. The expansion was published by Bethesda Softworks, a veteran publisher in the video game industry since 1986. It was first announced on March 21, 2018, and officially released on May 21, 2018, worldwide. The expansion was made available on multiple platforms including Microsoft Windows, macOS, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One, with later support for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S.

### Narrative and Setting
The expansion is set in the Summerset Isles, a region inhabited by the Altmer (High Elves), known for their advanced magic and isolationist culture. The narrative explores themes of elitism, racial purity, and the hidden dangers beneath the island’s pristine surface. Players are drawn into conflicts involving the Psijic Order, the Sload, and the ancient threats of the Coral Heart. The story continues the overarching narrative of *The Elder Scrolls Online*, focusing on the Vestige’s journey through Tamriel.

### Platforms and Distribution
*Summerset* is compatible with Microsoft Windows, macOS, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S. It is distributed digitally through platforms like Steam and physically via optical discs. The game supports various input methods including keyboard, mouse, and gamepad, ensuring accessibility across different user preferences.

### Gameplay and Features
The expansion introduces new zones, quests, and characters, along with gameplay enhancements such as the Psijic Order skill line and improvements to crafting systems. It also features new item sets, collectibles, and achievements. The game supports multiplayer modes and continues the MMORPG tradition of cooperative exploration and combat.

### Reception and Recognition
*The Elder Scrolls Online: Summerset* received critical acclaim, scoring 80/100 on CriticDB and 79/100 on Kritikanstvo. It was recognized with the GLAAD Media Award, highlighting its inclusive storytelling. The expansion was praised for its narrative depth, world-building, and cultural representation.

### Cultural and Technical Impact
As part of the *The Elder Scrolls* franchise, *Summerset* contributes to the ongoing legacy of one of gaming’s most beloved series. It demonstrates the continued relevance of MMORPGs in delivering expansive, story-driven experiences. The expansion also showcases Bethesda’s commitment to accessibility and representation, setting a standard for future titles in the genre.

### Related Entities and Connections
- **ZeniMax Online Studios**: The primary developer, responsible for creating and maintaining *The Elder Scrolls Online* and its expansions.
- **Bethesda Softworks**: The publisher of the game, responsible for marketing and distribution.
- **The Elder Scrolls Online**: The base game that *Summerset* expands upon.
- **Steam**: One of the primary digital distribution platforms for the game.
- **The Elder Scrolls Universe**: The fictional setting in which the game takes place, with *Summerset* focusing on the Summerset Isles.
- **GLAAD Media Awards**: Recognition received for inclusive storytelling.
- **Metacritic, CriticDB, Kritikanstvo, VGChartz**: Gaming review and analytics platforms that track the game’s reception and performance.

## References

1. Kritikanstvo
2. [Q131917281](https://criticdb.com/games/the-elder-scrolls-online-summerset)
3. [Online:Summerset (Chapter) - The Unofficial Elder Scrolls Pages (UESP)](https://en.uesp.net/wiki/Online:Summerset_(Chapter))
4. VGChartz
5. Q131917281