Elder Scrolls Online
It seems strange that Elder Scrolls Online was only released in 2014, and has already diminished in popularity despite months of hype before release. With Bethesda’s success release of Skyrim many players began asking about the possibility of an MMO, but its eventual release came with a lot of criticism.
On top of purchasing the full game, players were forced to pay monthly memberships to access the game. Despite a massive world, hundreds of detailed quests and the ability to visit many familiar places in the Elder Scrolls world, Elder Scrolls Online failed where MMOs normally succeed.
A lack of social interaction, no true community and a huge step back on character content compared to other titles have harmed Elder Scrolls Online. However, with Elder Scrolls Online losing its membership fees in March, and perhaps players will approach the game in a different manner. Elder Scrolls Online has also received a release date for consoles, re-branded as Elder Scrolls Online: Tamriel Unlimited, in June. The game will still have to be bought, however membership fees will be dropped with options to pay if the player wants.
Players will be able to access new content and updates free-to-play with an option of premium membership and microtransactions to purchase additional DLC and customization items. The concept of Elder Scrolls Online is ambitious, but after a rocky start as an MMO, maybe it is about time for players to dive back in.
