For over ten years, The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO) has enchanted players, raising the question of what sustains such a dynamic universe. While the game benefits from the esteemed Elder Scrolls brand, the success of online games often demands more than just a familiar name. With fresh content updates rolling out and more planned, I spoke with Rich Lambert, the Game Director of ESO, to gain insight into the game’s ongoing evolution.
The development journey began well before ESO’s 2014 launch, with ZeniMax Online Studios established in 2007. From the outset, the team focused on creating rich lore and settings, and they recently shared some early concept art showcasing the game’s stunning landscapes and intricate designs.
Now, after 18 years of development and a decade since launch, Lambert reflects on valuable lessons learned. He stresses the importance of understanding player behaviour, noting that initial attempts to balance MMO dynamics with Elder Scrolls features didn’t resonate as intended. The turning point came when the team decided to prioritise the Elder Scrolls experience over MMO elements, which significantly improved gameplay and player satisfaction.
As a result of this shift, Lambert highlights the introduction of popular features like housing, initially met with technical challenges but later embraced by the community. The latest update, The Seasons of the Worm Cult Part 1, introduces "subclassing," allowing users to mix and match skills from different classes, leading to over 3,000 potential combinations.
Additionally, this update marks a significant narrative progression, treating it as a true sequel and revisiting the original storyline while still being accessible for newcomers. Lambert reassures that both returning players and beginners can engage with the evolving content seamlessly.
Looking ahead, multiple updates are already in the planning stages, including updates 48, 49, and 50. Lambert expresses his dedication to continual development, affirming that as long as players are eager for new experiences, the team is committed to delivering fresh content and stories in the world of The Elder Scrolls Online. The latest installment is currently available on PC, Xbox, and PlayStation, promising an exciting future for the game’s dedicated community.