# The Elder Scrolls Online

> 2014 massively multiplayer online role-playing game

**Wikidata**: [Q1188904](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1188904)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Elder_Scrolls_Online)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/the-elder-scrolls-online

## Summary

The Elder Scrolls Online is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game and fantasy video game. It operates within the genres of massively multiplayer online role-playing game and fantasy video game.

## Summary
*The Elder Scrolls Online* (ESO) is a 2014 massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) set in the fantasy universe of *The Elder Scrolls* series. Developed by ZeniMax Online Studios and published by Bethesda Softworks, it allows players to explore the continent of Tamriel in a persistent online world, featuring cooperative and multiplayer gameplay.

## Key Facts
- **Release Date**: April 4, 2014.
- **Developer**: ZeniMax Online Studios (founded 2007, based in Hunt Valley, Maryland, USA).
- **Publisher**: Bethesda Softworks (founded 1986, based in Rockville, Maryland, USA).
- **Genre**: Massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG), fantasy video game.
- **Platforms**: Microsoft Windows, macOS, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5.
- **Composer**: Jeremy Soule.
- **Director**: Matt Firor.
- **Game Engine**: HeroEngine.
- **Rating**: ESRB Mature 17+ (violence), PEGI 16, USK 16.
- **Distribution**: Digital (Steam, Microsoft Store, PlayStation Store) and physical (optical disc).

## FAQs
### Q: What platforms is *The Elder Scrolls Online* available on?
A: The game is available on Microsoft Windows, macOS, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and Xbox Series S.

### Q: Who developed *The Elder Scrolls Online*?
A: It was developed by ZeniMax Online Studios, an American video game company founded in 2007.

### Q: What is the setting of *The Elder Scrolls Online*?
A: The game is set in the fictional continent of Tamriel, part of *The Elder Scrolls* universe, featuring a high-fantasy world with various regions and lore.

### Q: Is *The Elder Scrolls Online* a single-player or multiplayer game?
A: It is primarily a multiplayer game, supporting cooperative and online multiplayer modes, though some content can be experienced solo.

### Q: What are the system requirements for *The Elder Scrolls Online*?
A: Specific requirements vary by platform, but it supports both mouse/keyboard and gamepad inputs. For detailed specs, refer to the official website or platform store pages.

## Why It Matters
*The Elder Scrolls Online* represents a significant expansion of *The Elder Scrolls* franchise, transitioning from single-player RPGs to a persistent online world. It allows players to experience Tamriel cooperatively, blending the series' deep lore with MMORPG mechanics. The game has maintained a dedicated player base since its 2014 launch, with regular updates and expansions keeping the content fresh. Its cross-platform availability and flexible gameplay (solo or group) make it accessible to both casual and hardcore fans. As part of the broader *Elder Scrolls* media franchise, ESO contributes to the series' cultural impact in gaming.

## Notable For
- **First MMORPG in *The Elder Scrolls* series**: The first online-only entry in the franchise, expanding the universe into a shared world.
- **Cross-platform play**: Available on multiple platforms, including consoles and PC, with cross-progression support.
- **Dynamic storytelling**: Features a living world with evolving narratives, player choices, and phased content.
- **Large-scale PvP**: Includes the "Alliance War" mode, where hundreds of players battle in open-world conflicts.
- **Regular expansions**: Continuously updated with new zones, quests, and mechanics, such as *Morrowind* (2017) and *Blackwood* (2021).

## Body
### Development and Release
*The Elder Scrolls Online* was developed by ZeniMax Online Studios, a subsidiary of Bethesda Softworks. Announced in 2012, it entered beta testing in early 2014 and launched on April 4, 2014, for Windows and macOS. Console versions for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One followed in June 2015. The game initially required a subscription but shifted to a buy-to-play model with optional subscriptions (*ESO Plus*) in 2015.

### Gameplay and Features
- **Open World**: Players explore Tamriel, with regions like Skyrim, Morrowind, and Cyrodiil, each with unique quests and environments.
- **Character Customization**: Offers multiple classes (e.g., Dragonknight, Sorcerer) and races (e.g., Breton, Khajiit), with skill-based progression.
- **Alliance System**: Players choose one of three factions (Daggerfall Covenant, Ebonheart Pact, Aldmeri Dominion), each with distinct lore and territories.
- **Endgame Content**: Includes dungeons, raids (*Trials*), and PvP battles in Cyrodiil.
- **Crafting and Economy**: Features a robust crafting system and player-driven trading via guild stores.

### Reception and Updates
The game received mixed reviews at launch (e.g., 71/100 on OpenCritic) but improved over time with updates. Major expansions include:
- *Morrowind* (2017): Added the Vvardenfell zone from *The Elder Scrolls III*.
- *Elsweyr* (2019): Introduced the Khajiit homeland and necromancer class.
- *Blackwood* (2021): Expanded the story with the Daedric Prince Mehrunes Dagon.

### Technical Details
- **Engine**: Uses HeroEngine, modified for ESO’s needs.
- **Input Methods**: Supports keyboard/mouse and gamepad controls.
- **Localization**: Available in multiple languages, including English, German, French, and Japanese.

### Cultural Impact
ESO has become a staple in the MMORPG genre, known for its loyalty to *The Elder Scrolls* lore and accessibility. It has inspired fan communities, modding tools, and esports events (e.g., PvP tournaments). The game’s success led to spin-offs like *The Elder Scrolls: Blades* (2019).

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## References

1. Steam
2. OpenCritic
3. Kritikanstvo
4. [Q131917281](https://criticdb.com/games/the-elder-scrolls-online)
5. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
6. Humble Store
7. [All PS Now games A-Z](https://www.playstation.com/en-us/ps-now/ps-now-games/#all-ps-now-games)
8. [The Elder Scrolls Online](http://www.esrb.org/ratings/synopsis.jsp?Certificate=33311)
9. [PEGI Rating Database](https://pegi.info/search-pegi?q=The%20Elder%20Scrolls%20Online&page=2)
10. PCGamingWiki
11. Quora
12. GameSpot
13. Badgames
14. [Source](https://mediaarts-db.bunka.go.jp/id/M728210)
15. [Source](https://mediaarts-db.bunka.go.jp/id/C34366)
16. [The Elder Scrolls Online – RPGamer](https://rpgamer.com/game/the-elder-scrolls-online/)
17. Co-Optimus
18. [Search - Film and Video Labelling Body of NZ](https://www.fvlb.org.nz/film-detail?id=175852)
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28. [Online:Online - The Unofficial Elder Scrolls Pages (UESP)](https://en.uesp.net/wiki/Online:Online)
29. Macrotransactions
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