The Elder Scrolls Online is set to experiment in 2025, with plans for a new seasonal content model, a groundbreaking server-wide event, and the option for players to combine abilities from various classes to innovate new gameplay styles.
New Directions in Content
At a recent ESO Direct, developer ZeniMax Online shared exciting updates for the MMORPG’s future. Studio director Matt Firor reiterated much of his previous statements from a December blog post. Notably, instead of a traditional expansion for 2025, the game will adopt a seasonal content model that will permit more experimentation with content release and player engagement.
Seasons of the Worm Cult
Game director Rich Lambert and executive producer Susan Kath provided further insights into this shift. The inaugural season under this new model, titled Seasons of the Worm Cult, will debut in June and act as a sequel to the original Molag Bal storyline from a decade ago. This season will introduce a new area called the isle of Solstice, where players will explore the revival of Bal’s Worm Cult and encounter characters from the game’s initial main quest. This new zone features outcast elves and Argonians set in a tropical landscape.
Dynamic Seasonal Changes
While Seasons of the Worm Cult will extend over most of the year, Kath indicated that future seasons may vary in length, lasting anywhere from three to six months. Some of these seasons could involve “remixed” storylines, with potential themes including the Dark Brotherhood. Players will no longer need to purchase a chapter; instead, they will have the option to buy a $50 content pass that includes all seasonal updates for the year, including new dungeons. ESO Plus subscribers will have access to these new dungeons automatically.
Introducing Subclasses
One of the most significant announcements is the introduction of subclassing, which will be available for all players starting in June. Players will be able to choose skills from two other classes alongside their original class, allowing for over 3,000 skill line combinations. While they can learn skills from all classes, they will be limited to actively using abilities from two additional classes simultaneously, and they must retain at least one skill line from their primary class.
Collaborative Server Events
In addition to subclassing, ZeniMax Online is also experimenting with new server-wide events. The Solstice zone will feature a magical barrier called the Writhing Wall that will separate the area into two halves, prompting players to participate in a collaborative event where they gather resources and defend against the Worm Cult. This unprecedented event will be facilitated via player contributions to unlock the other half of the zone, reminiscent of historical World of Warcraft events.
Focus on Player Experience
ZeniMax Online is eager to cater to both newcomers and returning players, enhancing the tutorial and starting experiences. A new “Welcome Back” system will launch this summer, designed as a quest-driven experience that aims to reengage lapsed players. As ESO approaches its 11th year, Firor expressed optimism about the game’s evolution under the new seasonal model, which allows for a more adaptive development approach and the inclusion of smaller updates that were previously overlooked.
