gls-featured

Do you need to buy expansions with ESO Plus?

by

Do You Need to Buy Expansions with ESO Plus? The Ultimate Guide

The short answer is: no, you don’t need to buy expansions if you have ESO Plus, but it’s more nuanced than that. ESO Plus grants you access to all DLC game packs while your subscription is active. However, it does not include the larger Chapter expansions. So, while you’ll be swimming in dungeons, zones, and story content from DLCs, you’ll still need to purchase Chapters separately to experience their content. Let’s dive into the details!

ESO Plus vs. Chapters: Understanding the Difference

It’s crucial to understand the difference between DLC game packs and Chapters in The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO). Think of it this way:

  • DLC Game Packs: These are smaller content drops, typically focusing on a specific zone, dungeon, or story arc. They offer significant additions to the game and are usually included with an active ESO Plus subscription.

  • Chapters: These are the major yearly expansions, often introducing new classes, vast new zones, and substantial story campaigns. Think of them as standalone games in their own right. These are not automatically included with ESO Plus and must be purchased separately.

What Does ESO Plus Actually Give You?

ESO Plus is a premium subscription service that provides a multitude of benefits, making it a worthwhile investment for many ESO players. Here’s a rundown of what you get:

  • Full Access to All DLC Game Packs: This is the big one! Access to all the DLC content currently available in the Crown Store, including dungeons, zones, and storylines.

  • 1650 Crowns Per Month: Crowns are the premium currency in ESO, used to purchase cosmetic items, DLCs, and other account services.

  • Craft Bag: Unlimited storage for all your crafting materials. This alone is a game-changer for serious crafters.

  • Double Bank Space: Increases your bank storage capacity.

  • 10% Increase to Experience, Gold, and Inspiration Gains: Helps you level up faster and earn more in-game currency.

  • 10% Reduction to Research Times: Speeds up the process of researching traits for crafting.

  • Double Furnishings Placement Limit in Houses: Lets you decorate your homes to your heart’s content.

  • Exclusive Deals in the Crown Store: Access to special discounts and offers.

  • Ability to Dye Costumes: Customize your character’s appearance even further.

Why You Might Still Want to Buy Chapters Even With ESO Plus

Even though ESO Plus gives you access to a ton of content, there are reasons why you might still want to purchase Chapters:

  • Permanent Ownership: When you purchase a Chapter, you own it forever. If your ESO Plus subscription lapses, you’ll lose access to the DLCs, but you’ll still have your Chapters.

  • New Classes: Some Chapters, like Necrom, introduce new classes that are not included with ESO Plus. If you want to play a Necromancer, you must purchase the Necrom Chapter.

  • Major Storylines: Chapters often feature the most significant and compelling storylines in ESO.

  • Immediate Access: Buying a Chapter gives you immediate access to the content, rather than relying on an active subscription.

Making the Right Choice: Is ESO Plus Enough for You?

Ultimately, the decision of whether to buy Chapters in addition to ESO Plus depends on your individual play style and preferences.

  • If you’re a casual player who enjoys exploring different zones and storylines at your own pace, ESO Plus might be sufficient. You’ll have access to a vast amount of content to keep you entertained.

  • If you’re a dedicated player who wants to experience everything ESO has to offer, including the latest classes and major storylines, you’ll likely want to purchase the Chapters as well.

Here is some learning material about gaming: Games Learning Society.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions to help you further understand the relationship between ESO Plus and Chapters:

1. Does ESO Plus permanently unlock DLC?

No. If your ESO Plus subscription ends, you lose access to the DLCs unlocked through it. You’ll need to either renew your subscription or purchase the DLCs individually to regain access.

2. Do I get everything with ESO Plus?

No, you don’t get absolutely everything. You get access to all DLC game packs, but you do not get the Chapter expansions.

3. How do I access DLC with ESO Plus?

You can access ESO Plus unlocked DLC through the Stories tab of the Collections menu. Open the Collections menu, and you’ll find a list of your available Chapters and DLC, sorted into categories.

4. Does ESO Plus unlock the Thieves Guild?

Yes, the Thieves Guild DLC is included with an active ESO Plus membership.

5. Does ESO Plus give you the Necromancer class?

No, the Necromancer class is not included with ESO Plus. You must purchase the Necrom Chapter to unlock the Necromancer.

6. What DLC is free with ESO Plus?

ESO Plus includes a wide range of DLCs, such as Imperial City, Orsinium, Thieves Guild, Dark Brotherhood, Clockwork City, and many more zone and dungeon DLCs. The specific list can change as new content is released.

7. If I buy a Chapter, do I still need ESO Plus to access the associated DLCs?

No. If you own a Chapter, you have permanent access to the zone and main story content associated with it. You don’t need ESO Plus to access that specific Chapter’s content.

8. Can I play ESO without microtransactions?

Yes, but without ESO Plus, you might find yourself managing your inventory more carefully. The Craft Bag provided by ESO Plus significantly eases inventory management, especially for crafting materials.

9. What’s the best way to experience ESO if I’m new?

A great starting point would be buying the Necrom Edition, as this includes the base game and all currently available Chapters. If you also subscribe to ESO Plus, you will have access to a wealth of content to explore!

10. Is ESO worth playing in 2024?

Absolutely! With a steady stream of new content, a vibrant community, and a vast world to explore, ESO remains a compelling MMORPG in 2024.

11. How many years before Skyrim is ESO set?

ESO is set approximately 1,000 years before the events of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim.

12. Can you go to Skyrim in ESO without the Greymoor Chapter?

No. You need the Greymoor Chapter (or ESO Plus while it is a DLC) to access the Western Skyrim zone.

13. Will ESO Plus give me access to all future DLCs and Chapters?

ESO Plus grants access to all DLC game packs released while your subscription is active. It does not include future Chapters; those must be purchased separately.

14. If my ESO Plus expires and I resubscribe later, will I regain access to the DLCs?

Yes! As long as your ESO Plus subscription is active, you will have access to all available DLC game packs. Once you renew your subscription, access to those DLCs is restored.

15. Does ESO Plus give bonus XP in DLC zones?

Yes, ESO Plus provides a 10% bonus to experience gains. This bonus applies everywhere, including DLC and Chapter zones.

Final Thoughts

While ESO Plus doesn’t give you everything, it offers tremendous value, especially with access to all the DLC game packs. Understanding the distinction between DLC and Chapters will help you make informed decisions about which content to purchase, ensuring you get the most out of your Elder Scrolls Online adventure. Happy questing in Tamriel!

Leave a Comment