Five PC Gamer editors, collectively boasting over 2,500 hours in The Elder Scrolls series, have convened to share their most passionate opinions on the franchise's past, present, and future. Their discussions cover everything from the fundamental RPG mechanics to the potential for new media adaptations.
The Elder Scrolls Should Be an RPG Again
One strong sentiment is that The Elder Scrolls series should return to its RPG roots, emphasizing distinct classes and skill limitations. The argument posits that the trend towards universal skill progression and accessibility has resulted in a "uniform mush" of gameplay experiences, making the games more approachable but ultimately less engaging. The call is to reintroduce constraints that define character builds and create a more meaningful sense of progression.
Skyrim's Main Quest Outshines Its Side Content
Contrary to popular belief, the main questline of Skyrim is considered superior to much of its side content. While Oblivion's faction quests were lauded for their creativity, Skyrim's Thieves Guild and Dark Brotherhood quests are described as less inspired, often relying on procedural generation or simplified objectives. In contrast, Skyrim's main quest is praised for its spectacle, featuring dragons, epic journeys, and memorable characters like Paarthurnax, without demanding tedious tasks like running through Oblivion gates.
Oblivion's Spellmaking Was a Missed Opportunity
The spellmaking system in Oblivion, which allowed for highly customizable and game-breaking magic, is fondly remembered and its absence in subsequent titles lamented. While acknowledging that it unbalanced the game, the opinion is that The Elder Scrolls has increasingly shed its RPG identity, making the ability to craft powerful and unique spells a missed opportunity for fun and creative character building. This feature is seen as embodying the spirit of old-school tabletop RPGs, where players could truly achieve godlike power.
Morrowind's Side Quests Lacked Polish Compared to Later Titles
While Morrowind is recognized for its strong atmosphere and world-building, its side quests are seen as less developed when compared to those in Oblivion and Skyrim. For instance, Morrowind's Thieves Guild finale is a simple assassination, whereas Oblivion's "The Ultimate Heist" and Skyrim's "A Night to Remember" are highlighted as more intricate and memorable. Despite a preference for older RPGs, the editors acknowledge the advancements made in side quest design in later installments.
Modern Bethesda May Not Be Capable of Another Great Dark Brotherhood Questline
The Dark Brotherhood questline in Oblivion is frequently cited as a series high point, particularly the "Whodunnit?" quest, which offered a miniature immersive sim experience. However, there is skepticism about Bethesda's current ability to replicate such creativity, especially after the perceived narrative shortcomings of Starfield. The concern is that modern development constraints might prevent the unique blend of weirdness, creativity, and dark humor required for a truly compelling Dark Brotherhood story.
The Elder Scrolls Should Embrace Systems-Driven Gameplay
A critique is leveled at Bethesda's writing, which is considered to have declined since Skyrim, with Starfield being the nadir. Instead of focusing on meticulously crafted narratives, it's suggested that Bethesda should lean into its strength of creating vast worlds and fill them with emergent, systems-driven gameplay, akin to titles like Mount & Blade. This approach would prioritize player-driven action over potentially anodyne plots.
Environmental Interactivity Is Key, Even With Loading Screens
One editor expresses that the granular interactivity with the game world—the ability to pick up and manipulate small objects, read books, and affect the environment—is a defining and cherished feature of The Elder Scrolls. This immersive quality is seen as more important than seamless transitions between interiors and exteriors. The willingness to accept loading screens in future titles, like The Elder Scrolls 6, is a price worth paying if it means preserving this level of environmental detail and player interaction.
A Lack of Elder Scrolls TV Show is a Missed Opportunity
Given the success of the Fallout TV series, it's considered a significant oversight that an Elder Scrolls television adaptation is not currently in production. The vast lore, deep history, and expansive world of The Elder Scrolls offer ample material for a compelling show, potentially exploring side stories or historical events without conflicting with established game narratives. The hope is that such a series could provide content for fans while they await future game installments.