Let’s be honest, buying video games these days can be a real chore. With multiple editions, pre-order bonuses and console exclusives it can be a nightmare for your average user to know which game to buy and where. As many of you know we are stoked for The Elder Scrolls Online: Tamriel Edition and have been sorting through these details ourselves. One reoccurring thought that I would have is “Why isn’t all of this one place?”. Well for your convenience… here you go
What is the Tamriel Edition?
The Tamriel Edition is essentially a rebranding of The Elder Scrolls Online. The game had a fresh launch in March for PC users and ALL console versions are considered to be The Tamriel Edition. The biggest feature change with this relaunch was the loss of the Free-To-Play model and obliteration of the Subscription Fee. Also many notable features were added including the newly introduced Justice System.
What is the The Elder Scrolls Online: Tamriel Unlimited Imperial Edition?
This is however a different animal. The Imperial Edition is the collector’s edition of The Elder Scrolls Online: Tamriel Edition.
The PHYSICAL version of this includes the following:
- Molag Bal Statue – a 12″ statue featuring Molag Bal, Daedric Prince of Domination and Enslavement
- The Improved Emperor’s Guide to Tamriel – a 224-page illustrated guide annotated by the imperial scholar, Flaccus Terentius.
- Physical Map of Tamriel – A 21″ X 26″ printed map detailing Alliance-controlled zones and the ultimate conquest: Cyrodiil.
- Steel Case Packaging – A Limited Edition Steel Case decorated in the color of the Imperials
- Exclusive Collection of Digital Content:
- Play as an Imperial – Become an Imperial and play in any Alliance. Gain unique bonuses, crafting styles, gear, and more
- White Imperial Horse – Summon this Imperial mount and journey through Tamriel
- Mudcrab Vanity Pet – Explore Tamriel with a mudcrab pet scuttling along your side
- Rings of Mara – Complete the Ritual of Mara with a friend and receive and experience bonus when you play together
The DIGITAL version of this includes the following:
- Play as an Imperial – Become an Imperial and play in any Alliance. Gain unique bonuses, crafting styles, gear, and more
- White Imperial Horse – Summon this Imperial mount and journey through Tamriel
- Mudcrab Vanity Pet – Explore Tamriel with a mudcrab pet scuttling along your side
- Rings of Mara – Complete the Ritual of Mara with a friend and receive and experience bonus when you play together
Do I need to Pre-Order?
As usual with this kind of thing it’s completely up to you, however pre-ordering grants you access to The Explorer’s Pack which includes the following:
- Four Bonus Treasure Maps
- Scuttler Vanity Pet
- Play Any Race in Any Alliance
That last part could be a big deal to some players.
Can I upgrade at a later point?
You are able to upgrade to the Imperial Edition at a later point through the Crown Store. There is also an Adventurer Pack sold through the Crown store that contains most of the items from the Explorer’s Pack. (Most notably the ability to play any race in any alliance). However pre-ordering will give you this ability in a free add-on.
What is the Crown Store?
The Crown Store is an in-game store to purchase optional upgrades. (DLC) This may include the above mentioned, or additional costumes, mounts, potions etc. Note: This is completely separate from the Gold Coins accumulated by your character in-game.
The Pricing is as follows:
750 Crowns – $7.99
1500 Crowns – $14.99
3000 Crowns – $24.99
5500 Crowns – $39.99
Again this is completely optional
What is ESO Plus?
Elder Scrolls Online Plus is the Premium Membership Level and again is completely optional. Details on the Console version of this system is scarce at the moment, but we will be sure to update as soon as there is clarification on how this works.
PC Users had options that we valid for 30, 90, and 180 day versions. They each had a different pricing structure that mostly did the same thing. However the amount of Allotted Crowns per month varied depending on what tier you purchased.
Gamestop currently has one listing for Consoles priced at $14.99 but doesn’t specify how long this good for. Below is the included description.
“ESO Plus is our premium membership service. Sign up now to receive in-game benefits that let you get the most out of your journeys in Tamriel. Members receive increased experience, faster crafting progression, and bonus gold along with access to all available DLC Game Packs and a monthly allotment of 1500 Crowns (total membership amount of crowns given at time of purchase) to spend in the in-game store on pets, mounts, costumes, and much more. ESO Plus is the best way to see everything ESO has to offer! Please note that access to DLC Game Packs granted by ESO Plus is only available while your membership remains active”.
Comparing this to the PC version this appears to in line with the 30 day option.
What should I expect on Launch Day?
There will be a required ~15GB day-one patch for The Elder Scrolls Online: Tamriel Unlimited on PS4 and Xbox One.
The reason for the ~15GB patch: the game is bigger than a Blu-ray disc’s 50GB capacity.
“ESOTU is an incredibly massive game, both in terms of sheer scope and the data required to bring you this truly enormous experience. At the moment, the client will exceed a 50GB Blu-ray disc which means there will also be a large day-one patch that is somewhere in the region of 15GB,” explained Bethesda.
What Else Should I Know?
Since this is a MMO most of you will want to play with your friends right? Well you might want to have a discussion with them before everyone makes their characters. In Elder Scrolls Online there are three available Alliances to choose from when you make your character. Players from opposing Alliances will only be able to interact on the battlefield of Cyrodiil. That means in order for you and your friends to quest together, you will all need to pick the same Alliance.
Why is this?
This is a perfect time to catch everyone up on the storyline:
It is a time of strife and unrest. Armies of revenants and dark spirits manifest in every corner of Tamriel. Winters grow colder and crops fail. Mystics are plagued by nightmares and portents of doom.
Four years ago, in 2E 578, an arcane explosion of energy in the Imperial City set off mystical aftershocks that swept across Nirn. Mages died or went mad. Supernatural abominations from the plane of Oblivion, the Daedra, appeared in greater numbers than ever before. The constellation of the Serpent grew so large that it dominated the night sky.
So began the grand scheme of Molag Bal, Daedric Prince of domination and enslavement. His Dark Anchors, vortexes of evil magic, weaken the barrier between worlds, threatening to merge Nirn and Oblivion into a single, nightmarish hellscape.
In the midst of this chaos, three alliances vie for control of the Imperial City and the White-Gold Tower. High Rock, Sentinel, and Orsinium stand as one, united under the rule of the High King in Wayrest. Valenwood and Elsweyr have forged an alliance of their own with Summerset, while Black Marsh, Morrowind, and Skyrim have formed a third, uneasy pact.
The Daggerfall Covenant. The Aldmeri Dominion. The Ebonheart Pact.
Three armies will take up arms against the Empire, and against each other, to wrest control of the Imperial City and White-Gold Tower from the dark forces of Oblivion itself.
How does this translate to gameplay?
The drums of war have reached a fever pitch, calling the warriors of Tamriel to the field of battle. The Daggerfall Covenant, the Ebonheart Pact, and the Aldmeri Dominion will take up arms and fight for control of Cyrodiil, the Imperial City, and the throne of Tamriel.
Featuring three-sided Player vs. Player (PvP) gameplay, The Elder Scrolls Online: Tamriel Unlimited supports hundreds of players on screen at once in an open world fight for control of Cyrodiil. Seize, hold, and control the resources of massive strongholds. Utilize massive siege weapons to crumble fortress walls and smash through fortified gates. Conquer the Imperial City, and your alliance’s top player could even be crowned Emperor!
The three alliances do battle in the region of Cyrodiil, seeking to control the Imperial City and with it, the Ruby Throne of Tamriel. Each alliance must wrest control of strategic territories from the others, including massive fortresses, each with supporting farms, lumber mills, and other valuable resources.
Battles are concentrated around these resources and strongholds. Control of certain resources will extend the alliance’s influence in the region and help them take control of the Imperial City, and ultimately, control of the Ruby Throne itself.
Elder Scrolls are artifacts of immense power that aid an alliance in the ongoing battle to control Tamriel by conferring bonuses to every member of that alliance. Each alliance has a special stronghold in Cyrodiil where their Elder Scrolls are kept and protected – but enemy alliances can break in and take them if they are not guarded properly. Once access is gained and a Scroll taken, it must be taken back across Cyrodiil and placed in the alliance’s stronghold. Only then are the bonuses of the Scroll bestowed upon all the members of that alliance.
Capture an Elder Scroll, protect it, and return it to your alliance’s stronghold to wield its power and gain bonuses.
The battles for keeps and resources require more than the clash of steel. Alliances must use massive siege weapons to break down walls, smash open doors, and obliterate the armies of their opponents.
Everything from trebuchets and catapults to ballistae and battering rams are available for players to capture and use, allowing them to demolish the stone walls of keeps and collapse massive gates to gain entrance to heavily defended strongholds.
In The Elder Scrolls Online: Tamriel Unlimited, the highest-ranking player of an alliance is crowned Emperor when their alliance takes control of the Imperial City. You aren’t just fighting for your alliance; you’re fighting for the opportunity to be crowned Emperor, yourself.
Emperors gain special abilities that increase their prowess on the battlefield. They are true leaders of their alliance, and a force to be reckoned with.
An Emperor’s hold on power can be tenuous. Can your alliance protect all of the strongholds necessary to maintain your dominance? How long will your reign as Emperor last before an ambitious foe cuts you down?
Player vs. Player (PvP) in The Elder Scrolls Online: Tamriel Unlimited is fun, rewarding, and accessible for PvP veterans or new players with no PvP experience.
The collapse of the Second Empire has left a vacuum of power in the Imperial City, and three alliances battle for supremacy. Whoever controls the Ruby Throne will crown an Emperor, and their alliance will rule all of Tamriel.
The Elder Scrolls Online: Tamriel Unlimited features a battle leveling system that temporarily increases a player’s combat effectiveness to compete against higher level players, ensuring that everyone enjoys the experience, from players who have never experienced PvP combat, to seasoned veterans demanding a deep, rewarding PvP experience. Players may join the PvP action as soon as they reach level 10, and jump right into the action without fear.
The Elder Scrolls Online: Tamriel Unlimited features leaderboards and achievements. Keep track of your ranking and compare yourself, your alliance, and your guild to that of your friends and enemies.
While fighting for an alliance in PvP, players earn points that can help them purchase siege weaponry and other bonuses to aid their allies in the heated pitch of battle.
Just jumping in for the first time? Don’t worry – you can still earn siege weapons and bonuses! If you have yet to play PvP and want to join, you can contribute immediately by using gold earned in Player vs. Environment (PvE) in lieu of points.
What are the three Alliances?
Daggerfall Covenant
The Daggerfall Covenant is comprised of the two Provinces of northwest Tamriel: High Rock and Hammerfell, home to the Bretons and the Redguards. The Covenant has also offered the Orcs the opportunity to return to their ancient homeland of Orsinium in exchange for their support. Working together, the three races have formed a powerful alliance that aims to restore the Second Empire and bring peace and prosperity back to Tamriel.
High King Emeric is a Breton merchant lord whose shrewd policies and masterful diplomacy earned him the trust of the Kings of High Rock, an alliance by marriage with the Redguards, and ultimately, a war treaty with the Orcs. He rules from Wayrest in High Rock.
Ebonheart Pact
The Ebonheart Pact is the most tenuous of alliances, consisting of former enemies turned allies in northern and eastern Tamriel. The Nords, Dark Elves, and Argonians of Skyrim, Morrowind, and Black Marsh fight to restore stability to the Empire and ensure their own autonomy.
Jorunn, of Eastern Skyrim, is acting High King of the Great Moot, but he does not rule absolutely. His decisions must be ratified by all three races in a unique form of governance called The Great Moot. He is down-to-earth, humorous, and has an iron will to succeed.
Aldmeri Dominion
The Aldmeri Dominion is composed of the three races of southern Tamriel: the Wood Elves of Valenwood, the Khajiit of Elsweyr and the leaders of the Pact, the High Elves of the Summerset Isles. The Aldmeri Dominion fights to stop the dangerous machinations of humankind, and restore the Elven dominance in Tamriel.
Queen Ayrenn is intelligent and honorable, with a genuine humility rarely seen among her people but she is also a decisive leader with a stubborn streak. She is young for a High Elf—a mere 28 years old—but she spent much of the first part of her life roaming the lands and seas of Tamriel, seeking adventure and the kind of education schools cannot impart. She returned to Summerset following the death of her father to accept her position as heir to the Altmer throne.
Can you give me more details on the races that comprise these Alliances?
Daggerfall Covenant
Breton
The Bretons of High Rock are Nedic humans with a touch of Elven blood. Poetic and passionate, they are people who take easily to both spellcraft and swordplay, and have the gifts of magic and diplomacy.
Passive Abilities
Light Armor Affinity – Increases experience gain with the Light Armor skill line by 15% (Unlocked at Breton Level 1)
Gift of Magnus – Increases maximum Magicka by __%
- Rank 1: 4% (Unlocked at Breton Level 5)
- Rank 2: 7% (Unlocked at Gift of Magnus Rank I)
- Rank 3: 10% (Unlocked at Gift of Magnus Rank II)
Spell Resistance – Increases Spell Resistance by __%
- Rank 1: 2% (Unlocked at Breton Level 10)
- Rank 2: 4% (Unlocked at Spell Resistance Rank I)
- Rank 3: 6% (Unlocked at Spell Resistance Rank II)
Magicka Mastery – Reduces the Magicka cost of spells by __%
- Rank 1: 1% (Unlocked at Beton Level 25)
- Rank 2: 2% (Unlocked at Magicka Mastery Rank I)
- Rank 3: 3% (Unlocked at Magicka Mastery Rank II)
Redguards
Redguards are a playable race in The Elder Scrolls Online. The Redguards of Sentinel and Hallin’s Stand are members of the Daggerfall Covenant, along with the Bretons and Orsimer, though they are not bound to this alliance if the game is pre-ordered.
The Redguards of Hammerfell are humans who came to Tamriel from the lost continent of Yokuda. A dignified and martial people, most are suspicious of magic, preferring to settle conflicts with swords. Redguards are supremely athletic, and raised to be outstanding warriors from the moment they’re born.
Passive Abilities
Shield Affinity – Increases experience gain with the One Handed and Shield skill line by 15%
Vigor – Increases Stamina Recovery while in combat by __%
- Rank 1: 3% (Unlocks at Redguard Level 5)
- Rank 2: 6% (Unlocked at Vigor Rank I)
- Rank 3: 9% (Unlocked at Vigor Rank II)
Conditioning – Increases maximum Stamina by __%
- Rank 1: 4% (Unlocks at Redguard Level 10)
- Rank 2: 7% (Unlocked at Conditioning Rank I)
- Rank 3: 10% (Unlocked at Conditioning Rank II)
Adrenaline Rush – Restores __ stamina when damaging enemies with Melee attacks. This effect can only be activated once every 3 seconds.
- Rank 1: 1 (Unlocked at Redguard Level 25)
- Rank 2: 2 (Unlocked at Adrenaline Rank I)
- Rank 3: 3 (Unlocked at Adrenaline Rank II)
Orcs
The Orsimer (commonly known as Orcs) are a playable race in The Elder Scrolls Online. The Orcs of Wrothgar are members of the Daggerfall Covenant, along with the Bretonsand Redguards, though they are not bound to this alliance if the game is pre-ordered.
A hardy mountain people, Orcs are considered uncivilized outcasts by most other races. However, they are recognized as the finest smiths in Tamriel, and Orcish arms and armor are prized by warriors and craftsmen everywhere.
Passive Abilities
Heavy Armor Expertise – Increases experience gain with the Heavy Armor skill line by 15%.
Brawny – Increases maximum Health and maximum Staminaby __%
- Rank 1: 2% (Unlocked at Orsimer Level 5)
- Rank 2: 4% (Unlocked at Brawny Rank I)
- Rank 3: 6% (Unlocked at Brawny Rank II)
Robust – Increases Health regeneration while in combat by __%
- Rank 1: 10% (Unlocked at Orsimer Level 10)
- Rank 2: 20% (Unlocked at Robust Rank I)
- Rank 3: 30% (Unlocked at Robust Rank II)
Swift – Reduces cost of sprint by __% and increases sprint speed by __%
- Rank 1: 4%, 3% (Unlocked at Orsimer Level 25)
- Rank 2: 8%, 6% (Unlocked at Swift Rank I)
- Rank 3: 12%, 9% (Unlocked at Swift Rank II)
Ebonheart Pact
The Nords
Nords are a playable race in The Elder Scrolls Online. The Nords of eastern Skyrim are members of the Ebonheart Pact, along with the Dunmer and Argonians, though they are not bound to the alliance if the game is pre-ordered. The western side of Skyrim unlike the eastern side prefer peace then war and as such refuse to fight for the Ruby Throne.
Strong and hardy, the Nords of Skyrim are Nedic humans who are as quick to laugh as they are to fight. Most Nords prefer simplicity to sophistication, and an axe or an arrow over a spell. They are the brash, boisterous front line of the Pact; fierce warriors and expert weapon masters.
Passive Abilities
Two-Handed Expertise – Increases experience with the Two-Handed Weapon skill line by 15%.
Robust – Increases Health regeneration during combat by __%
- Rank 1: 10% (Unlocked at Nord Level 5)
- Rank 2: 20% (Unlocked at Robust Rank I, Nord Level 15)
- Rank 3: 30% (Unlocked at Robust Rank II, Nord Level 30)
Resist Frost- Increases Cold resistance by __ and maximum health by __%
- Rank 1: 10; 1% (Unlocked at Nord Level 10)
- Rank 2: 20; 2% (Unlocked at Resist Frost Rank I, Nord Level 20)
- Rank 3: 30; 3% (Unlocked at Resist Frost Rank II, Nord Level 40)
Rugged – Decreases damage taken by __%
Rank 1: 2% (Unlocked at Nord Level 25)
Rank 2: 4% (Unlocked at Rugged Rank I, Nord Level 35)
Rank 3: 6% (Unlocked at Rugged Rank II, Nord Level 50)
Dark Elves
The Dunmer, or Dark Elves, are a playable race in The Elder Scrolls Online. They are members of the Ebonheart Pact, along with the Nords and Argonians, though they are not bound to this alliance if the game is pre-ordered.
Proud but grim and often ruthless, the Dark Elves, known as Dunmer in their homeland of Morrowind, are slow to trust but loyal to their allies. They are equally adept with blade, spell, or stealth.
The Dunmer of House Telvanni are estranged from the other Great Houses of Morrowind, and have refused to join the Pact.
Passive Abilities
Ambidexterity – Increases experience gain with Dual Wield skill line by 15%.
Dynamic – Increases maximum Magicka and Stamina by __%
- Rank 1: 2% (Unlocked at Dunmer Level 5)
- Rank 2: 4% (Unlocked at Dynamic Rank I)
- Rank 3: 6% (Unlocked at Dynamic Rank II)
Resist Flame – Increases resistance to Fire Damage by __ and maximum Magicka __%
- Rank 1: 10; 1% (Unlocked at Dunmer Level 10)
- Rank 2: 21; 2% (Unlocked at Resist Flame Rank I)
- Rank 3: 32; 3% (Unlocked at Resist Flame Rank II)
Flame Talent – Increases spells power with Fire effects by __%
- Rank 1: 3% (Unlocked at Dunmer Level 25)
- Rank 2: 5% (Unlocked at Flame Talent Rank I)
- Rank 3: 7% (Unlocked at Flame Talent Rank II)
Argonians
Argonians are a playable race in The Elder Scrolls Online. They are members of the Ebonheart Pact, along with the Nords, and the Dunmer, who under the Pact’s terms have had to liberate their Argonian slaves, though they are not bound to this alliance if the game is pre-ordered.
A reptilian race of lizard-folk from the dark swamps of Black Marsh, to some the Argonians seem cold and uncanny. Surviving the dangers of their homeland has made them adept with both weapons and healing magic.
Passive Abilities
Restoration Expertise – Increases experience gain with the Restoration Staff Skill line by 15%
Amphibious – Increases swimming speed by ___% and the effectiveness of potions by ___%.
- Rank 1: 50%; 5% (Unlocked at Argonian Level 5)
- Rank 2: 50%; 10% (Unlocked at Amphibious Rank I)
- Rank 3: 50%; 15% (Unlocked at Amphibious Rank II)
Argonian Resistance – Increases Maximum Health by __% and Poison and Disease resistance by ___.
- Rank 1: 1%; 7% (Unlocked at Argonian Level 10)
- Rank 2: 2%; 14% (Unlocked at Resistance Rank I)
- Rank 3: 3%; 21% (Unlocked at Resistance Rank II)
Quick to Mend – Increases healing received by __%.
- Rank 1: 2% (Unlocked at Argonian Level 25)
- Rank 2: 4% (Unlocked at Quick to Mend Rank I)
- Rank 3: 6% (Unlocked at Quick to Mend Rank II)
Aldmeri Dominion
High Elves
The Altmer, or High Elves, are a playable race in the The Elder Scrolls Online. They are members of the Aldmeri Dominion, along with the Bosmer and Khajiit, though they can appear in other factions for those who pre-order the game.
The High Elves were one of the original settlers of Tamriel and created the common tongue used throughout the continent today. They consider themselves descended from the gods, and superior to all other mortals. Elegant and sophisticated, many Altmer, as they’re known in the Summerset Isles, are naturally proficient with magic.
Passive Abilities
Destruction Talent – Increases experience with Destruction Staff Skill line by 15%
Spellcharge – Increases Magicka Recovery while in combat by __%
- Rank 1: 3% (Unlocked at Altmer Level 5)
- Rank 2: 6% (Unlocked at Altmer Level 15)
- Rank 3: 9% (Unlocked at Spellcharge Rank II)
Gift of Magnus – Increases maximum Magicka by__%
- Rank 1: 4% (Unlocked at Altmer Level 10)
- Rank 2: 7% (Unlocked at Gift of Magnus Rank I)
- Rank 3: 10% (Unlocked at Gift of Magnus Rank II)
Elemental Talent – Increases damage with Cold, Fire, or Shock effects by __%
- Rank 1: 2% (Unlocked at Altmer Level 25)
- Rank 2: 3% (Unlocked at Elemental Talent Rank I)
- Rank 3: 4% (Unlocked at Elemental Talent Rank II)
Wood Elves
The Bosmer, or Wood Elves, are a playable race in The Elder Scrolls Online. They are members of the Aldmeri Dominion, along with the Altmer and Khajiit, though the Vestige has no obligation to join the Dominion if they’re a Bosmer if they pre-order the game.
Nimble and quick, the Wood Elves inhabit the thick, near-impenetrable forests of Valenwood, where they are known as Bosmer. They are supreme hunters, guides, and masters in sneaking and thievery, revering nature and the forest, and may be the only Elves with a sense of humor.
Passive Abilities
Archery Expertise: Increases experience gain with Bow Skill Line by 15%
Vigor: Increases Stamina recovery while in combat by __%
- Rank 1: 7% (Unlocked at Bosmer Level 5)
- Rank 2: 14% (Unlocked at Vigor Rank I)
- Rank 3: 21% (Unlocked at Vigor Rank II)
Resist Affliction: Increases Poison and Disease resistance by __; Increases maximum Stamina by __%
- Rank 1: 1% (Unlocked at Bosmer Level 10)
- Rank 2: 2% (Unlocked at Resist Affliction Rank I)
- Rank 3: 3% (Unlocked at Resist Affliction Rank II)
Stealthy: Improves stealth radius by __ and increases damagedone while stealthed by __%
- Rank 1: 1m; 3% (Unlocked at Bosmer Level 25)
- Rank 2: 2m; 6% (Unlocked at Stealthy Rank I)
- Rank 3: 3m; 9% (Unlocked at Stealthy Rank II)
Khajiit
The Khajiit are a playable race in The Elder Scrolls Online. They are part of the Aldmeri Dominion, along with the Altmer and Bosmer, though they are not bound to the faction by those who have pre-ordered the game.
A proud feline race from the southern province of Elsweyr, Khajiit are agile, irreverent, quick-witted, and fiery, often changing mood in a heartbeat. They revere Nirn’s two moons Masser and Secunda, and have a weakness for anything sweet. The Khajiit are fearsome warriors, proficient with bladed weapons, and stand proudly at the forefront of every battle.
Passive Abilities
Medium Armor Expertise – Increases experience gain with Medium Armor by 15%
Robust – Increases Health regeneration during combat by __%
- Rank 1: 10% (Unlocked at Khajiit Level 5)
- Rank 2: 20% (Unlocked at Robust Rank I)
- Rank 3: 30% (Unlocked at Robust Rank II)
Stealthy – Increases Stealth Radius by __ and increases damage done while sheathed by __%
- Rank 1: 1m; 3% (Unlocked at Khajiit Level 10)
- Rank 2: 2m; 6% (Unlocked at Stealthy Rank I)
- Rank 3: 3m; 9% (Unlocked at Stealthy Rank II)
Carnage – Increases Critical rating for Melee attacks by __%
- Rank 1: 2% (Unlocked at Khajiit Level 25)
- Rank 2: 4% (Unlocked at Carnage Rank I)
- Rank 3: 6% (Unlocked at Carnage Rank II)
Imperials
Imperials are a playable race in The Elder Scrolls Online. They are available as part of an exclusive collection of digital content included with the Imperial Edition of the game. Unaligned outcasts of their own province of Cyrodiil, rogue Imperials have joined the Ebonheart Pact, the Daggerfall Covenant, and the Aldmeri Dominion, after breaking away from their Daedra worshipping leaders.
Imperials have a unique racial skill line and the automatic ability to cosmetically craft items into the Imperial style, in particular armor and weapons.
Passive Abilities
Shield Affinity – Increases experience gain with One-Handed and Shield Skill Line by 15%
Tough – Increases Max Health by __%
Rank 1: 4% (Unlocked at Imperial Level 5)
Rank 2: 8% (Unlocked at Tough Rank I)
Rank 3: 12% (Unlocked at Tough Rank II)
Conditioning – Increases Max Stamina by __%
Rank 1: 4% (Unlocked at Imperial Level 10)
Rank 2: 7% (Unlocked at Conditioning Rank I)
Rank 3: 10% (Unlocked at Conditioning Rank II)
Red Diamond – Melee attacks have a 10% chance to restore __Health
Rank 1: 2 (Unlocked at Imperial Level 25)
Rank 2: 4 (Unlocked at Red Diamond Rank I)
Rank 3: 6 (Unlocked at Red Diamond Rank II)
Now that’s great, but what about classes?
Classes are pre-made character archetypes in The Elder Scrolls Online.
During character customization, players must choose from one of four classes:
- Dragonknight
- Sorcerer
- Nightblade
- Templar
Each class has 3 unique skill lines. In addition to classes, players have access to weapon, armor, guild, PvP, and racial skill lines, as well as the mutually exclusive vampire and werewolf lines.
Dragonknight
The Dragonknight is one of four playable classes in The Elder Scrolls Online. It is a class more suited to dealing damage and staying alive, though it can fulfill any role effectively, like the other 3 classes.
The Dragonknight, like all classes, has 3 unique skill lines only available for Dragonknights; Ardent Flame, Draconic Powerand Earthen Heart. Each of these abilities are more suited to specific roles. For example, Draconic Power is more suited towards survivability, while Ardent Flame is more suited towards dealing damage. The arrows are used to signify an ability’s morph choices e.g. one morph choice for Fiery Grip, is Empowering Chains.
Ardent Flame
- Fiery Grip -> Empowering Chains / Extended Chains
- Searing Strike -> Unstable Flame / Burning Embers
- Fiery Breath -> Burning Breath / Engulfing Flames
- Lava Whip -> Molten Whip / Flame Lash
- Inferno -> Flames of Oblivion / Sea of Flames
- ULTIMATE ABILITY : Dragonknight Standard -> Shifting Standard / Standard of Might
Draconic Power
- Spiked Armor -> Razor Armor / Volatile Armor
- Dark Talons -> Choking Talons / Burning Talons
- Dragon Blood -> Green Dragon Blood / Coagulating Blood
- Reflective Scale -> Reflective Plate / Dragon Fire Scale
- Inhale -> Deep Breath / Draw Essence
- ULTIMATE ABILITY: Dragon Leap -> Take Flight / Ferocious Leap
Earthen Heart
- Stonefist -> Stone Giant / Obsidian Shard
- Molten Weapons -> Igneous Weapons / Molten Armaments
- Obsidian Shield -> Igneous Shield / Fragmented Shield
- Petrify -> Fossilize / Shattering Rocks
- Ash Cloud -> Cinder Storm / Eruption
- ULTIMATE ABILITY: Magma Armor -> Magma Shell / Corrosive Armor
Passive Abilities
Ardent Flame
- Kindling
- Warmth
- Searing Heat
- World in Flame
Draconic Power
- Iron Skin
- Burning Heart
- Elder Dragon
- Scaled Armor
Earthen Heart
- Eternal Mountain
- Battle Roar
- Mountain’s Blessing
- Helping Hands
Sorcerer
The Sorcerer is one of four playable classes in The Elder Scrolls Online. It is the only class capable of summoning combat pets and teleporting.
Sorcerers are more suited for dealing high amounts of damage, rather than survivability. Sorcerer attacks are generally lightning based.
Storm Calling (Damage Dealing)
ULTIMATE: Overload
Mage’s Fury
Lightning Form
Lightning Splash
Surge
Bolt Escape
Storm Calling PassivesEdit
Capacitor
Energized
Disintegrate
Expert Mage
Dark Magic (Crowd Control / Damage Dealing)
ULTIMATE: Negate Magic
Crystal Shard
Encase
Rune Prison
Dark Exchange
Daedric Mines
Dark Magic PassivesEdit
Unholy Knowledge
Blood Magic
Persistence
Exploitation
Daedric Summoning (Damage Dealing / Summoning)
ULTIMATE: Summon Storm Atronach
Unstable Familiar
Daedric Curse
Summon Winged Twilight
Bound Armor
Conjured Ward
Daedric Summoning Passives
Rebate
Power Stone
Daedric Protection
Expert Summoner
Nightblade
The Nightblade is one of four playable classes in The Elder Scrolls Online. It is a class more suited for stealth and surprise attacks rather than survivability. Although, they do feature health-draining abilities
Skill Lines
- Assassination (DPS)
- Shadow (DPS/Crowd control)
- Siphoning (Buffing/Debuffing)
Templar
Templar is a unique class that can deal weapon damage and use the powers of light and burning sun to damage enemies. They can also act as healers, with dedicated restoration spells. It is the “paladin” of Elder Scrolls Online.
Skill Lines
- Aedric Spear: Harnesses the power of Light using summoned Spears. (Short Range, Magic based DD, Protection)
- Dawn’s Wrath: Uses the forces of the Sun to smite one’s foes. (Moderate Range, Magic based DD)
- Restoring Light: Channels Healing energies to aid the Templar and allies. (Area, Healing, Protection)
Abilities
- Puncturing Strikes (Aedric Spear): 4 rapid attacks finishing with knockback.
- Sun Fire (Dawn’s Wrath): Ranged attack that snares and deals damage over time.
- Rushed Ceremony (Restoring Light): A standard healing spell, to heal yourself and/or allies.
- Ultimate Ability – “Nova” (Dawn’s Wrath): Ultimates unlocked at skill line Rank 12.
Wait…. you can be Werewolves and Vampires?
Sure can….
Vampires
Vampires are a character modification and skill tree in The Elder Scrolls Online. Vampires gain access to a number of special abilities, as well as some unique vulnerabilities
Vampires gain access to powerful new skill trees.
Passive Abilities
- Savage Feeding – after feeding, your target is off-balance and stunned for 2 seconds (Rank I), and 3.25 seconds (Rank II).
- Supernatural Recovery – Increases Magicka and Stamina Recovery by 5% (Rank I), and 10% (Rank II).
- Blood Ritual – Allows player to turn another player into a Vampire once every 7 days, by returning to the Vampire ritual site. Turned players gain the Vampire Skill Line. Players infected with Lycanthropy cannot be turned.
- Undeath – Increase damage mitigation when player is below 30% Health (Rank I), 50% Health (Rank II). Damage Mitigation can increase up to 50%, as Health decreases.
- Unnatural Resistance – Health Recovery is improved in Vampirism stages 2 through 4.
- Dark Stalker – Increases movement speed while sneaking and allows player to enter stealth more quickly at night.
Ultimate Abilities
- Bat Swarm – Summon a swarm of bats that surround you and deal [11 / 12 / 13 / 14] Magic Damage to enemies every 1 second for 5 seconds
- Clouding Swarm – Grants additional invisibility every second. Deal [14 / 15 / 16 / 17] Magic Damage.
- Devouring Swarm – Drain [3 / 4 / 5 / 6] Health for each target affected. Deal [14 / 15 / 16 / 17] Magic Damage.
Active Abilities
- Drain Essence – Stun target for 3 seconds and deals [11 / 12 / 13 / 14] Magic Damage every 1 second. Player recovers 150% of damage as Health and Stamina every 1 second. Cannot be applied to targets which have recently been drained or fed upon.
- Invigorating Drain – Recover [2 / 3 / 4 / 5] Ultimate every 1 second.
- Midnight Drain – Recovery rate is doubled at night. Deals [14 / 15 / 16 / 17] Magic Damage every 1 second.
- Mist Form – Take 75% reduced damage from all sources and gain invulnerable to healing magic and control effects for [3 / 3.33 / 3.66 / 4] seconds.
- Elusive Mist – Increases movement by [45 / 47 / 49 / 52]%.
- Poison Mist – Deals [5 / 6 / 7 / 8] Poison Damage to nearby enemies every ½ second.
These skills lend themselves to characters builds which still take advantage of powerful weapons and armor (unlike Werewolves). Their Siphoning ability grants them a degree of independence, and their Mist Form powers are terrific for getting out of unexpected trouble.
On the other hand, Vampires are easily mauled by fire. Some enemies and most players will be able to inflict massive damage.
Werewolves
Werewolves are lycanthropes that are feared throughout Tamriel in The Elder Scrolls Online. Werewolves surrender to their primal nature, roaming the wilds in pursuit of prey. Confrontations with these lycanthropes are dangerous.
Those afflicted with this transformational disease can launch into a frenzied killing spree and feel the uncontrollable strength granted by the transformation. Werewolves use their incredible strength to leap through the air towards their unfortunate targets and devour them with fervor. They often hunt in packs, destroying everything they can hunt down.
Abilities in the werewolf skill line work together, allowing players to take advantage of interactions that amplify the thrill of the hunt, making them more efficient killers and even extending their blood frenzy. All of the abilities put the player in the role of the hunter—always in control and right on the heels of their prey.
Werewolf Transformation
Ultimate
- Transform yourself into a bloodthirsty beast, increasingStamina, Armor, and Sprinting Speed.
- Your light attacks add a bleeding effect, dealing [x] Physical Damage over 8 seconds.
- Your transformation also causes nearby enemies to run in fear.
Pack Leader
- Transform yourself into a bloodthirsty beast, increasing Stamina, Armor, and Sprinting Speed.
- Your light attacks add a bleeding effect, dealing [x] Physical Damage over 8 seconds, plus an additional 40%.
- Your transformation also causes nearby enemies to run in fear.
- Your presence increases the duration of a nearby ally’s Werewolf Transformation by 2 seconds for each time they activate a Heavy Attack.
Werewolf Berserker
- Transform yourself into a bloodthirsty beast, increasing Stamina, Armor, and Sprinting Speed.
- Your light attacks add a bleeding effect, dealing [x] Physical Damage over 8 seconds.
- Your transformation also causes nearby enemies to run in fear.
- Increases Light Attack bleed damage by 40%.
Pounce
Active
- Pounce on an enemy with primal fury to deal [x] Physical Damage and stun them if they are off balance.
Brutal Force
- Pounce on an enemy with primal fury to deal [x] Physical Damage and stun them if they are off balance.
- Deals an additional [x] Physical Damage to target and nearby enemies.
- Deals damage to all enemies in area of effect.
Feral Pounce
- Pounce on an enemy with primal fury to deal [x] Physical Damage and stun them if they are off balance.
- Pouncing from at least 10 meters away adds 1 second to the duration of your Werewolf Transformation.
- Each use increases time in werewolf form.
Hircine’s Bounty
Active
- Invoke the Huntsman’s blessing to heal yourself for [x].
Hircine’s Rage
- Invoke the Huntsman’s blessing to heal yourself for [x] and increase your Weapon Damage by 10% for 17 seconds.
- Increases Weapon Damage for caster.
Hircine’s Fortitude
- Invoke the Huntsman’s blessing to heal yourself for [x] and an additional [y] over 8 seconds.
- Adds heal over time effect.
Roar
Active
- Roar with bloodlust to terrify up to 3 nearby enemies, afflicting them with fear and setting them off balance for 4.3 seconds.
Ferocious Roar
- Roar with bloodlust to terrify up to 3 nearby enemies, afflicting them with fear and setting them off balance for 4.3 seconds.
- If an affected enemy is killed, enemies nearby are disoriented and set off balance for 2.5 seconds.
- Killing feared targets leaves nearby allies off balance and disoriented.
Rousing Roar
- Roar with bloodlust to terrify up to 3 nearby enemies, afflicting them with fear and setting them off balance for 4.3 seconds.
- Grants Major Brutality to nearby allies, increasing Weapon Damage by 20% for 4 seconds.
- Increases Weapon Damage of nearby allies.
Piercing Howl
Active
- Crush enemy with a deafening howl, dealing [x] Physical Damage and knocking them down for 3 seconds.
Howl of Despair
- Crush enemy with a deafening howl, dealing [x] Physical Damage and knocking them down for 3 seconds.
- Allies can activate the Feeding Frenzy synergy, increasing light and heavy attack damage by 10% for 15 seconds.
- Add Feeding Frenzy synergy which will increase our allies basic attacks.
Howl of Agony
- Crush enemy with a deafening howl, dealing [x] Physical Damage and knocking them down for 3 seconds.
- Damage against feared enemies is increased by 30%.
- Deal increased damage to enemies that are currently feared.
Infectious Claws
Active
- Maul enemies in front of you with your tainted claws, dealing [x] Physical Damage and an additional [x] Disease Damage over 10 seconds.
Claws of Anguish
- Maul enemies in front of you with your tainted claws, dealing [x] Physical Damage and an additional [x] Disease Damage over 10 seconds.
- Also afflicts enemies with Major Defile, reducing the effectiveness of healing on them by 40% for the effect’s duration.
- Targets effected receive less healing.
Claws of Life
- Maul enemies in front of you with your tainted claws, dealing [x] Physical Damage and an additional [x] Disease Damage over 10 seconds.
- Also restores your Health, equivalent to 50% of the damage inflicted.
- Gain heal over time based on damage done.
Passive Abilities
Devour – While in Werewolf Form
- Devour humanoid corpses to earn more time in werewolf form
Pursuit
Rank 1 While in Werewolf Form
- Increases Heavy Attack Stamina return by 50%
Rank 2 While in Werewolf Form
- Increases Heavy Attack Stamina return by 100%.
Blood Rage
Rank 1 With Werewolf Transformation
- Increases time in werewolf form by 3 seconds every time you take damage. This effect can occur once every 5 seconds.
Rank 2 With Werewolf Transformation
- Increases time in werewolf form by 5 seconds every time you take damage. This effect can occur once every 5 seconds.
Blood Moon
- Allows player to turn another player into a Werewolf once every 7 days by returning to the Werewolf ritual site.
- Turned players earn the Werewolf Skill Line.
- Players infected with Vampirism cannot be turned.
Savage Strength
Rank 1 While in Werewolf Form
- Increases Weapon Damage by 9%.
Rank 2 While in Werewolf Form
- Increases Weapon Damage by 18%.
Call of the Pack
Rank 1
- Increases the duration of nearby allies’ Werewolf Transformation by 3%.
- Affects up to 5 targets and stacks up to 5 times.
Rank 2
- Increases the duration of nearby allies’ Werewolf Transformation by 5%.
- Affects up to 5 targets and stacks up to 5 times.
OMG….Now is there anything else I need to know?
Trust me…. there is a wealth of information that this game has to offer. While I can’t cover everything here, hopefully I made the purchasing process easier and helped you plan the creation of your character.
One more thing… If you need help finding a name for your character check out this cool database.
How do you know all of this? Are you some kind of Daedra?
Not at all. I just do a lot of reading and pulled text and information from many different sources. Gamestop, Elderscrolls.com, elderscrollsonline.wiki.fextralife.com, elderscrollsonline.info, and elderscrolls.wikia.com to name a few.
Thanks very much to all of these great sites for helping all of us common folk. Feel free to visit them for more in-depth knowledge.
Thanks to everyone for reading this guide, I truly hope it helps and I look forward to seeing you in Tamriel.
