The Elder Scrolls Online is an expansive MMORPG that takes players on an unforgettable journey across the world of Tamriel.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything The Elder Scrolls online new players need to know, including Elder Scrolls Online gameplay essentials, tips for leveling up efficiently, and practical ESO beginner tips to help you navigate the game’s mechanics.
What is The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO)?
The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO) is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) set in the expansive world of Tamriel. Developed by ZeniMax Online Studios, ESO takes place during the Second Era, centuries before Skyrim.
Unlike single-player Elder Scrolls games, ESO features a shared online world where players can explore, complete quests, and engage in PvP battles. With flexible Elder Scrolls Online gameplay, you can play solo or team up with others to tackle dungeons and epic adventures.
Overview of gameplay mechanics
Elder Scrolls Online (ESO) offers a flexible and immersive MMORPG experience, combining exploration, combat, and character progression. This is a breakdown of the core gameplay mechanics:
Character creation
Choose from 10 playable races, divided among three factions: Aldmeri Dominion, Daggerfall Covenant, and Ebonheart Pact. Select a class (e.g., Dragonknight, Sorcerer, Nightblade) to determine your combat style and abilities.
Combat system
ESO features an action-oriented combat system with light and heavy attacks, blocks, dodges, and skill abilities. Use stamina, magicka, and health resources strategically to maximize your performance in battle.
Questing and exploration
The game offers a mix of story-driven quests, side missions, and open-world exploration across Tamriel’s diverse regions. Discover dungeons, public delves, and world bosses for loot and experience.
Leveling and progression
Progress by completing quests, defeating enemies, and exploring the world. Unlock new skills, abilities, and gear as you level up your character.
Crafting and professions
Engage in crafting professions like Blacksmithing, Alchemy, and Enchanting to create gear, potions, and upgrades.
Group content
Team up with other players to complete dungeons, trials (large-scale PvE raids), and participate in PvP battles in the Alliance War.
Tips for starting your adventure
Starting your journey in Elder Scrolls Online can feel overwhelming, but with these essential ESO beginner tips, you’ll set yourself up for success:
1. Pick the right class and race
Choose a class that fits your preferred playstyle (e.g., Sorcerer for magic, Dragonknight for tanking). Races offer bonuses to stamina, magicka, or health, so match them to your class for added benefits.
2. Focus on the main story and starter zone
Begin with the main questline and the starter zone for your alliance. These areas teach you the game’s mechanics and provide essential gear.
3. Join a guild early
Guilds offer trading, help with dungeons, and valuable tips from experienced players. Look for beginner-friendly guilds to get started.
4. Explore and unlock wayshrines
Unlock Wayshrines as you explore—they act as fast travel points and save time when moving across Tamriel.
5. Don’t ignore crafting
Start gathering resources early for crafting. Professions like Blacksmithing and Enchanting can provide powerful gear and upgrades.
6. Manage your inventory
ESO has limited inventory space. Sell, deconstruct, or store unnecessary items regularly to keep your bags clear.
7. Experiment with skills and builds
Don’t stress about the “perfect build.” Try different skills and weapons to find what works best for your playstyle. You can always respect them later!
8. Collect skyshards
Skyshards are scattered across the world. Collecting three grants you a skill point, essential for unlocking new abilities.
9.Learn the combat system
Practice light/heavy attacks, dodging, blocking, and using skills. Combat in ESO is dynamic and rewards skillful play.
10. Enjoy the journey
Take your time to explore, complete quests, and immerse yourself in Tamriel’s lore. The game isn’t a race—enjoy the adventure!
Choosing the best class
Selecting the right class is a key decision when starting your adventure in The Elder Scrolls Online. Each class offers unique abilities, strengths, and playstyles, so here’s a quick guide to help you choose the one that suits you best:
Dragonknight
The Dragonknight is perfect for players who enjoy close combat and durable characters. With strong defensive skills and fire-based attacks, it excels as a tank or melee DPS. Its straightforward abilities make it a solid choice for beginners who want to dive into combat head-on.
Sorcerer
The Sorcerer specializes in ranged magic and summoning pets to aid in battle. Its lightning and dark magic abilities make it great for dealing damage from a distance. Sorcerers are ideal for players who enjoy casting spells and controlling the battlefield.
Nightblade
If you love stealth and quick, high-burst damage, the Nightblade is for you. Masters of assassination and resource management, Nightblades are perfect for sneaky players who enjoy taking down enemies before they know what hit them.
Templar
The Templar is a versatile class with powerful light-based abilities, excelling in healing, tanking, or DPS roles. It’s beginner-friendly and great for players who want to support others while still holding their own in combat.
Warden
Wardens combine frost magic, group support, and animal summoning. This hybrid class is perfect for players who enjoy nature-themed abilities and want a balanced mix of defense, offense, and healing options.
Necromancer
The Necromancer brings dark magic and unique corpse-based abilities to the battlefield. Whether dealing damage, tanking, or healing, this tactical class offers a fresh and versatile playstyle for players who want to command the dead.
Community and group activities
In Elder Scrolls Online, teamwork and community play a huge role in enhancing your adventure. These are the key group activities you can enjoy:
- Dungeons: 4-player group instances offering gear, experience, and challenges. Start with normal dungeons before trying veteran versions.
- Trials: 12-player PvE raids with tough bosses that test teamwork and coordination, perfect for endgame content.
- PvP in Cyrodiil: massive Alliance War battles where players fight for keeps and resources, earning ranks and rewards.
- Battlegrounds: fast-paced, 4v4v4 matches with objective-based gameplay for smaller PvP action.
- Guilds: join a guild for trading, group events, crafting help, and support from experienced players.
For a smoother experience in The Elder Scrolls Online, consider using ExitLag to reduce latency and improve your connection during group activities and gameplay.