The Gap Between The Elder Scrolls Online and Skyrim: A Chronological Breakdown
The Elder Scrolls Online and Skyrim are two beloved games in the Elder Scrolls franchise, set in the vast and immersive world of Tamriel. While both games have their own unique stories and settings, they are connected by a shared universe and timeline. In this article, we will delve into the chronological gap between The Elder Scrolls Online and Skyrim, exploring the events that take place between these two games.
How Many Years is ESO Before Skyrim?
According to the game’s lore, The Elder Scrolls Online takes place during the Age of Heroes, 1,000 years before the events of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. This significant time gap provides a rich opportunity to explore the history and events that shape the world of Tamriel.
A Brief Overview of the Timeline
Here is a brief overview of the Elder Scrolls timeline:
- 1st Era: The First Era is characterized by the rise and expansion of human empires and the decline of Elven authority.
- 2nd Era: The Second Era is marked by the formation of the Breton Empire and the expansion of the Empire of Cyrodiil.
- 3rd Era: The Third Era is where The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, and The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim take place.
Events Leading Up to ESO
Before ESO, the events of the 3rd Era had unfolded. The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind took place around 3E 427, followed by The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion around 3E 433. The events of Oblivion were significant, as they involved the saving of the world from demonic invasions and the destruction of the Oblivion gates.
The Timeline Shifts
After Oblivion, the timeline shifts forward in time. The Elder Scrolls Online takes place during the 2nd Era, specifically during the Age of Heroes, 1,000 years before the events of Skyrim. This period is characterized by the formation of the First Empire, the rise of the Aedra, and the creation of the Elder Scrolls themselves.
Events Leading Up to Skyrim
After ESO, the timeline shifts forward once again. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim takes place around 4E 201, approximately 200 years after the events of Oblivion. During this time, the Empire of Tamriel has begun to decline, and the world is plagued by dragons, vampires, and other supernatural threats.
Comparing the Timelines
Here is a table comparing the timelines of ESO and Skyrim:
| Era | Year | Game | Event |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2nd Era | – | ESO | Age of Heroes |
| 3rd Era | 3E 427 | Morrowind | Morrowind |
| 3rd Era | 3E 433 | Oblivion | Oblivion |
| 4th Era | 4E 201 | Skyrim | Skyrim |
In conclusion, The Elder Scrolls Online and Skyrim are two distinct games in the Elder Scrolls franchise, separated by a significant time gap. Understanding the events leading up to each game provides valuable insight into the rich and immersive world of Tamriel. Whether you’re a veteran player or a newcomer, this brief overview should provide a helpful guide to navigating the complex Elder Scrolls timeline.