Should You Play All the Elder Scrolls Games?
The Elder Scrolls series has been a beloved franchise for many gamers, with a rich history of immersive role-playing games that have captivated audiences worldwide. With the release of each new installment, the question often arises: "Should I play all the Elder Scrolls games?" In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Elder Scrolls and explore the answers to this question.
No, You Don’t Need to Have Played Any of the Earlier Games
One of the most significant advantages of the Elder Scrolls series is that each game is designed to be a standalone experience. The storylines don’t cross, and you can start playing any game in the series without prior knowledge of the others. This makes it easy for new players to jump in and start exploring the world of Elder Scrolls without feeling overwhelmed.
Which Ones Are Still Worth Playing?
If you’re new to the series, you might wonder which games are still worth playing. The first two games, Arena and Daggerfall, are certainly worth noting, although they tend to be cited as skippable by long-time Elder Scrolls fans. Morrowind and Oblivion are also worth playing, as they set the stage for the series and introduced many of the gameplay mechanics that are still used today.
Is There a Right Order to Play the Games?
While the games can be played in any order, playing them in chronological order can provide a richer understanding of the Elder Scrolls universe. Here’s a suggested order:
| Game | Release Year | Chronological Order |
|---|---|---|
| The Elder Scrolls: Arena | 1994 | |
| The Elder Scrolls II: Daggerfall | 1996 | |
| An Elder Scrolls Legend: Battlespire | 1997 | |
| The Elder Scrolls Adventures: Redguard | 1998 | |
| The Elder Scrolls Travels (Stormhold, Dawnstar, Shadowkey) | 2003-2005 | |
| The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind | 2002 | |
| The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion | 2006 | |
| The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim | 2011 | |
| The Elder Scrolls Online | 2014 |
Can You Finish Skyrim?
Completing the entirety of the game itself is almost impossible, with all the side quests that seem to lead you nowhere near the end. However, beating the game is a whole different story and is actually very doable. In fact, the main storyline can be completed in around 20-30 hours, depending on your playstyle.
Is There a Wrong Way to Play Skyrim?
That amount of choice can result in some small roadblocks throughout a new player’s journey, though. There is no incorrect way of playing an Elder Scrolls title, although there are a few ways players can make the game harder on themselves. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
• Don’t be afraid to explore: The world of Skyrim is vast and full of hidden secrets and side quests. Take the time to explore and discover new locations and characters.
• Don’t overlevel: While it’s tempting to level up your character as quickly as possible, overleveling can make the game too easy and less challenging.
• Don’t neglect your skills: Make sure to distribute your skill points wisely and don’t neglect your character’s weaknesses.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while playing all the Elder Scrolls games can provide a richer understanding of the series and its world, it’s not necessary to play every game to enjoy the series. Each game is designed to be a standalone experience, and you can start playing any game in the series without prior knowledge of the others. Whether you’re a new player or a long-time fan, the Elder Scrolls series has something to offer everyone.