Summary
Skyrimwas a massive success and, even more than a decade later, it’s widely considered one of the standards that other games are based on. WithThe Elder Scrolls 6in production and up next on Bethesda’s release schedule, it’s expected that much of the game will be influenced bySkyrim. However, thoughSkyrimwas the most successful ofThe Elder Scrollsgames thus far, to limitThe Elder Scrolls 6toSkyrimwould be detrimental to the series. Instead, Bethesda should acknowledge that there are those who prefer Morrowind, Oblivion, and of course Skyrim, merging the three games together to create a perfect blend that appeals to all modern TES fans.
The Elder Scrolls 6’s Gameplay and Mechanics
Combat Should Be a Cross Between Styles
Combat has always been a tricky issue for games inThe Elder Scrolls.Morrowindused a dice roll system which was abandoned inOblivion. Despite this change,Oblivionstill didn’t get the combat quite right, although its magic system was robust and worked really well.Skyrim’s technology and animationworked well together to create a skill and combat system that felt weighted and real, but its magic system was heavily simplified. Drawing fromOblivionandMorrowind’s magic systems with inspiration fromSkyrim’s combat would be best forThe Elder Scrolls 6.
Morrowind’s Bold World Should Be an Inspiration
BothSkyrimandOblivionare set in European-inspired fantasy worlds, butMorrowind’s landscape is a world of volcanic ash, monsters, and towering mushrooms. The unique setting and worldbuilding ofMorrowindis one of the most appealing aspects of the game, and is one of the reasons players keep returning to it. IfThe Elder Scrolls 6is set in Hammerfell,a similar removal from a European setting would be welcomed, especially if Bethesda chooses to push its creativity and create an as-yet unseen environment and culture.
Roleplaying Should Be One Aspect of Skyrim That Goes Untouched
Character building inThe Elder Scrollswas fairly consistent fromMorrowindtoOblivion, but received an overhaul withSkyrim. Some criticizedSkyrim’s changes as simplifying the RPG aspects ofThe Elder Scrolls, while others praised the new versatility available to players. Despite the criticism, being able to level a character using any skill inSkyrim, as opposed to only through Major Skills as in previous games, was a major change, and is something that should be brought forward toThe Elder Scrolls 6.
Storytelling and Character in The Elder Scrolls 6
Better Guilds Should Be a Priority
The Elder Scrollsgames are all defined by the multitude of stories in their worlds, rather than one main plot that dominates the game. Guild storylines take up a large percentage of these stories. Guilds are organizations the player character can join, and play a vital role in roleplaying and filling Tamriel with interesting characters and making the player feel like a part of the gaming world.Skyrim’s guild storylines were criticizedfor not having the same depth asMorrowindorOblivion, either by achieving top status in the guild too quickly, such as the Companions, or by not being relevant to the guild’s advertised services, such as the Thieves Guild or College of Winterhold.
Immersing Players In a Living World is Key
One of the most important parts of creating a living world that players become and remain invested in is through NPCs who are interesting. Interacting with these characters is also crucial when considering roleplaying and the options the player is given to respond to NPCs, such as voiced vs unvoiced dialogue. While Bethesda appears to be favoring voiced protagonists,SkyrimandOblivion’s approach of an unvoiced protagonist worked well for roleplaying.
Deeper Characters Is a Must
Creating a connection between the player character and NPCs is something that bothMorrowindandOblivionexcelled in, as the Tribunal’s bond with the Nerevarine inMorrowindandMartin Septim’s bond with the Hero of Kvatch inOblivionare both bonds that aren’t replicated inSkyrim. While both Delphine and Paarthurnax are both characters the Dragonborn develops bonds with inSkyrim, Delphine’s relationship with the Dragonborn is more hostile, and Paarthurnax is a passive character. Martin and the Tribunal both bring conflict into the story and for the player, and reintroducing characters like that inThe Elder Scrolls 6would elevate the quality of the main storyline.
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
WHERE TO PLAY
Winner of more than 200 Game of the Year Awards, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim celebrates 10 years of adventuring in stunning detail. The Anniversary Edition includes a decade worth of content: the critically acclaimed core game and add-ons of Skyrim Special Edition, plus Creation Club content released on or prior to May 11, 2025.EPIC FANTASY REBORNSkyrim reimagines and revolutionizes the open-world fantasy epic, bringing to life a complete virtual world open for you to explore any way you choose.LIVE ANOTHER LIFE, IN ANOTHER WORLDPlay any type of character you can imagine, and do whatever you want; the legendary freedom of choice, storytelling, and adventure of The Elder Scrolls is realized like never before.YOU ARE WHAT YOU PLAYChoose from hundreds of weapons, spells, and abilities. The new character system allows you to play any way you want and define yourself through your actions.BATTLE DRAGONSBattle ancient dragons like you’ve never seen. As Dragonborn, learn their secrets and harness their power for yourself.
