How to Get All the ESO DLC: A Comprehensive Guide for Tamriel Adventurers
So, you’re eager to delve deeper into the vast and captivating world of The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO)? The key to unlocking those hidden realms and exciting storylines lies in accessing the game’s downloadable content, or DLC. There are a few ways to do this, and the best option depends on your playstyle and budget.
The most direct route is to purchase the DLC individually from the in-game Crown Store using Crowns, ESO’s premium currency. Alternatively, you can subscribe to ESO Plus, which grants you access to almost all available DLC for the duration of your subscription, excluding the newest Chapter. Let’s unpack these options and other helpful facts in detail!
Understanding ESO DLC Options
1. Individual Purchases with Crowns
This method provides permanent access to the specific DLC you buy. Crowns can be purchased with real money through the Crown Store, found within the game’s main menu. The price of each DLC varies depending on its size and content. This approach is ideal if you’re only interested in a few specific storylines or zones. It also ensures perpetual ownership, regardless of your ESO Plus status.
2. ESO Plus Subscription
ESO Plus is a premium subscription service that offers a plethora of benefits, the most notable being access to almost all DLC. While subscribed, you can freely explore all the dungeons, zones, and storylines included in the DLC. It’s a fantastic option for players who want to experience everything ESO has to offer without committing to purchasing each DLC separately.
However, keep in mind that access is contingent upon maintaining an active subscription. If your ESO Plus lapses, you will lose access to the DLC content, although your characters will still retain any skills or items they acquired within those zones.
3. Purchasing Chapter Editions
Chapters are major expansions that typically include new zones, storylines, classes, and game mechanics. When you buy a Chapter Edition of the game, it often includes the base game and all previous Chapters. This is the best option if you’re new to ESO and want to catch up on content.
4. Special Events & Promotions
Keep an eye out for special in-game events and promotions! Occasionally, ZeniMax Online Studios will offer free access to specific DLC for a limited time. This is a great opportunity to try out new content before deciding whether to purchase it.
Choosing the Best Option for You
Ultimately, the best way to get all the ESO DLC depends on your individual needs and preferences:
- Casual Players: If you only play occasionally, purchasing individual DLC might be the most cost-effective option.
- Dedicated Players: ESO Plus offers tremendous value for those who play regularly and want to experience all the available content.
- New Players: The Chapter Editions provide the best starting point, offering a comprehensive package of the base game and previous Chapters.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About ESO DLC
1. What DLC is included with ESO Plus?
ESO Plus typically includes access to all DLC game packs available in the Crown Store, excluding the latest Chapter. This includes dungeons, zones, stories, and other content such as Imperial City, Orsinium, Thieves Guild, Dark Brotherhood, Morrowind (zone and story), Clockwork City, Summerset, and many more. The exact list can change, so always double-check the current offerings on the official ESO website.
2. Does ESO Plus permanently unlock DLC?
No, ESO Plus provides access to the DLC only while your subscription is active. If your subscription expires, you will lose access to the DLC content until you renew your subscription or purchase the DLC individually.
3. Can I buy ESO DLC with gold?
No, you cannot directly purchase DLC with in-game gold. Gold is used for transactions with merchants and other players. DLC can only be acquired via Crowns (purchased with real money) or through an ESO Plus subscription. While you can’t buy DLC with gold, you can exchange gold for Crowns with other players if they are willing to sell them to you.
4. What is the difference between a DLC and a Chapter?
DLCs are smaller content packs that typically add new zones, dungeons, or storylines. Chapters are major expansions that introduce significant new features such as new classes, zones, and gameplay mechanics. Chapters are usually larger and more expensive than DLCs.
5. Do I need to buy DLC if I have ESO Plus?
No, as long as you have an active ESO Plus subscription, you can access almost all DLC without purchasing them individually. The primary exception is the most recent Chapter, which must be purchased separately.
6. How many DLCs are there for Elder Scrolls Online?
The number of DLCs available for ESO changes frequently as new content is released. There are numerous smaller DLCs released annually and a major chapter each year as well. Always check the official ESO website or the in-game Crown Store for the most up-to-date information.
7. Is ESO worth it without ESO Plus?
Yes, ESO is still enjoyable without ESO Plus. The base game offers a substantial amount of content to explore. However, ESO Plus significantly enhances the experience by providing access to additional content, crafting bag benefits, XP boosts, and more.
8. Can I still access items I obtained in a DLC zone if my ESO Plus expires?
Yes. Any items, skills, or achievements you’ve earned in DLC zones are yours to keep, even if your ESO Plus subscription lapses. However, you won’t be able to enter those zones again until you renew your subscription or purchase the DLC.
9. What happens to my characters if I cancel ESO Plus?
Your characters remain intact if you cancel ESO Plus. You simply lose access to the DLC zones and content. All your items and skills are still available, and you can continue playing in the base game zones.
10. Is the Necromancer class included with ESO Plus?
No, the Necromancer class (introduced with the Elsweyr Chapter) is not included with ESO Plus. You must purchase the Necromancer class separately from the Crown Store. Likewise, the Warden class from the Morrowind Chapter must also be purchased separately.
11. How do I access the DLC content once I have it?
Once you have purchased a DLC or have an active ESO Plus subscription, you can access the new zones and content by accepting the initial quest from a quest giver in a major city or by traveling directly to the zone’s starting location on the world map. You can also use the Collections menu in the game to start DLC content.
12. Will I get Crowns if I subscribe to ESO Plus?
Yes. ESO Plus members receive a monthly stipend of Crowns, which can be used to purchase items from the Crown Store, including DLC (if you prefer to own them permanently).
13. How long does it take to complete all the ESO DLC?
The time it takes to complete all the ESO DLC varies greatly depending on your playstyle and completion goals. It can easily take hundreds or even thousands of hours to experience everything the DLC has to offer. The Games Learning Society might even study the engagement of players and how the structure of these DLCs support learning!
14. What version of ESO should I buy in 2024?
In 2024, new players generally have two main options: the Standard Edition (which includes the base game and the Morrowind Chapter) or the Collection Edition (which includes the base game and all previous Chapters). Consider the Collection Edition for the most comprehensive experience.
15. Where can I find sales on ESO DLC or ESO Plus?
Keep an eye on the official ESO website, Steam, and other digital storefronts for sales on ESO DLC and ESO Plus subscriptions. Sales often coincide with in-game events or holidays.
By understanding these options and frequently asked questions, you can choose the best path to experience all the exciting adventures that ESO’s DLC has to offer. Now go forth, champion, and explore the hidden corners of Tamriel!
For more information on the impact of games on learning and engagement, visit the GamesLearningSociety.org website.