Which Elder Scrolls Should I Start With? A Beginner’s Guide
Welcome to the world of Bethesda’s Elder Scrolls series! With a rich history dating back to 1994, the Elder Scrolls saga has captivated gamers across the globe with its innovative gameplay, immersive storylines, and vast open-world environments. If you’re new to the series and wondering which Elder Scrolls to start with, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll explore the best entry-point for beginners, highlighting key features, gameplay mechanics, and notable titles.
Understanding the Elder Scrolls Storyline
Before diving in, it’s essential to have a basic understanding of the Elder Scrolls storyline. The Elder Scrolls series spans across multiple games, offering a complex and interconnected story arc. Each installment is set in a fantasy world called Tamriel, where various factions, magical orders, and powerful warriors clash in a struggle against darkness, evil, or destruction. The series typically revolves around the eternal quest for power, knowledge, and balance between the realms of the mortal world (Tamriel) and the realm of the gods.
Which Elder Scrolls should I start with? – A Quick Overview
Let’s summarize the Elder Scrolls games in chronological order:
• The Elder Scrolls: Arena (1994) – The pioneering game in the series
• The Elder Scrolls II: Daggerfall (1996) – A classic open-world fantasy RPG
• Morrowind (2002) – A reboot of the series with its unique engine and setting
• Oblivion (2006) – A 3D action-RPG epic
• Skyrim (2011) – The most popular entry-point for new players and the subject of this review
• The Elder Scrolls Online (2014) – A multi-player online RPG
• Lore-friendly game, Elsweyr (2019)
• The Elder Scrolls VI (in production)
Why Start with Skyrim?
For new players, we strongly recommend starting with The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (2011). Several reasons justify this choice:
• Accessibility: Skyrim introduces an improved, more fluid combat system, making the game more accessible to novices.
• Familiar setting: The vast open world of Skyrim set in the frozen wilderness is instantly recognizable, making for an easier transition into Tamriel.
• Popular franchise: Skyrim has arguably the most dedicated fanbase among all Elder Scrolls series, with a vast knowledge base, guides, and tutorials.
• Consistent game mechanics: Skyrims’ combat style and magical system have made the transition to subsequent editions of the series.
In terms of gameplay, expect a first-person perspective view, engaging combat, deep character customization, and exploratory open-world adventures spanning 38,000 cubic miles of land. Explore ruins, towns, and dungeons, interacting with a vast array of intriguing characters and factions.
Table: Key Features Compared Across Elder Scrolls Games