Elder Scrolls Series: A Comprehensive Guide for New and Returning Players

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Are you a fan of the Dungeons and Dragons fantasy genre and looking to dive into the world of The Elder Scrolls? This extensive guide will take you through the rich history of the series, offer recommendations on where to start, and address whether it is worth combating the occasional difficulty to explore this immersive realm.

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Overview of the Elder Scrolls Series

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The Elder Scrolls series is a collection of role-playing games (RPGs) developed by Bethesda Game Studios. It is known for its open-world exploration, dynamic storytelling, and deep RPG mechanics. The series follows a troupe of adventurers in a Tanorianrsquo;s realms, where the fate of the universe is at stake. From the mythical Ebonheart to the undersea kingdom of Vvardenfell, the series offers a vast and detailed universe to explore.

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Getting Started with Elder Scrolls

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Deciding which game to play first in the Elder Scrolls series can be a daunting task, as the games range from The Elder Scrolls: Arena (1994) to more recent entries like Skyrim (2011). However, not all of these games are suitable for everyone, especially new players. Here is a breakdown of the series and my recommendations.

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The Elder Scrolls: Arena (1994)

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Arena is the first title in the series but it is outdated and not recommended for new players. The gameplay and graphics are archaic by todayrsquo;s standards. It is better suited for those interested in PC archaeology. If you choose to play it, Daggerfall (1996) follows and offers a more cutting-edge experience.

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The Elder Scrolls II: Daggerfall (1996)

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Daggerfall is an improvement over its predecessor, offering a more refined experience. However, it is still relatively complex and may take some time to get into. The game features a massive open world, extensive lore, and complex quests that may seem overwhelming to new players. Consuming all of it with the minimal effort required can be a challenge.

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The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind (2002)

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Morrowind has a rich story and is visually impressive, with beautiful landscapes and a powerful soundtrack. However, the game involves a lot of reading and lacks voice-acted NPCs, which may be frustrating for new players. Despite its numerous challenges, Morrowind is a must-play for fans of the series.

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The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion (2006)

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Oblivion is a significant improvement over Morrowind, offering a more streamlined and accessible experience. The game features immersive storytelling, a moving soundtrack, good gameplay, and breathtaking landscapes. The game also benefits from its two outstanding DLCs, making the experience even more worthwhile. It is highly recommended for new players.

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The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim (2011)

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Skyrim is currently the crowning achievement of the Elder Scrolls franchise. It offers a blend of RPG mechanics and grand strategy, with an engaging story, beautiful landscapes, and a vast open world. Playing the Special or Anniversary edition together with multiple DLCs and mods enhances the gameplay experience. It is an excellent choice for both new and experienced players.

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Not Recommended Games

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The Elder Scrolls Online and Legends are generally not recommended. While they are part of the universe, they do not capture the same depth and richness as the single-player titles. An MMO (Massively Multiplayer Online) game can feel quite different and may not fully satisfy the Elder Scrolls experience.

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Additional Recommendations

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For those interested in a more traditional RPG experience, The Elder Scrolls: Total War (2022–23) is a fan mod of Medieval II Total War: Kingdoms (2007). This game allows you to lead any country on the Tanorianrsquo;s continent of Tamriel in a turn-based grand strategy format. While it is not an RPG, it is a unique and engaging way to explore the Elder Scrolls universe.

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Conclusion

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In conclusion, the Elder Scrolls series offers a wealth of immersive gameplay experiences, from the intricate quests of Morrowind to the open-world exploration of Skyrim. Starting with Skyrim is recommended for its accessibility, engaging story, and polished mechanics. While the earlier titles may pose challenges due to their age and complexity, they still hold significant value for Elder Scrolls enthusiasts. For those interested in a grand strategy experience, The Elder Scrolls: Total War is an excellent choice.

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If yoursquo;re a fan of the Elder Scrolls series, I highly recommend giving these games a try. The immersive worlds and dynamic gameplay make it a worthwhile journey, regardless of where you start in the series.

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Explore the Tanorianrsquo;s realms and experience the grandeur of The Elder Scrolls!