Diving Deep: Unpacking the Cost of ESO Plus
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The burning question on every Elder Scrolls Online player’s mind eventually becomes: How much does ESO Plus cost? The answer isn’t a single number, as it depends on the subscription length you choose. ESO Plus, the premium subscription service for the game, comes in several flavors with varying price points:
- Monthly: $14.99 per month
- 3-Month: $41.99 every 3 months ($13.99 per month equivalent)
- 6-Month: $77.99 every 6 months ($12.99 per month equivalent)
- 12-Month (Annual): $139.99 every 12 months ($11.67 per month equivalent)
These prices are, of course, subject to change, so always double-check the official ESO website or in-game Crown Store for the most up-to-date information. The longer you commit, the cheaper the monthly equivalent becomes, rewarding players who plan to invest significant time in Tamriel.
Is ESO Plus Worth the Cost? A Deeper Look
Beyond the raw numbers, deciding if ESO Plus is worth the cost is a deeply personal decision. It hinges on how much you play, what you enjoy doing in the game, and how much you value the various benefits it provides. Let’s break down those benefits and see if they align with your playstyle.
The most significant perk for many is access to all DLC game packs. This instantly unlocks a massive amount of content, including new zones, questlines, dungeons, and trials. This is a huge value if you plan on experiencing everything ESO has to offer.
Then there’s the crafting bag. This is a game-changer for crafters. It provides unlimited storage for all crafting materials, freeing up precious inventory space. If you’re constantly gathering resources, this alone can justify the subscription cost.
ESO Plus members also receive 1650 Crowns per month, which can be used to purchase cosmetic items, convenience items, and even DLC in the Crown Store. This effectively offsets some of the subscription cost, as you’re essentially getting “free” Crowns to spend.
Finally, there are several other smaller perks that add up, including:
- Double Bank Space: Essential for hoarders.
- 10% increase to experience, gold, and inspiration gain: Speeds up character progression.
- 10% increase to crafting inspiration gain: Levels crafting skills faster.
- Double Furnishings space in player houses: Allows for more elaborate decorating.
- Exclusive deals on Crown Store items: Access to discounted items.
- Ability to dye costumes: Further character customization.
Whether these perks add up to value for you depends entirely on your priorities. A casual player who primarily focuses on the base game might not need ESO Plus. A dedicated crafter who wants to experience all the DLC and optimize their character will likely find it invaluable.
Making the Decision: Trial Run and Long-Term Planning
The best way to determine if ESO Plus is right for you is to take advantage of the free trial periods that ZeniMax Online Studios occasionally offers. Keep an eye on the official ESO website and social media channels for announcements about these events. A free trial lets you experience the benefits of ESO Plus firsthand without any commitment.
When deciding on a subscription length, consider your long-term plans. If you’re new to the game, start with a month to see if you enjoy it. If you’re a returning player or know you’ll be playing regularly for the foreseeable future, the annual subscription offers the best value. Remember, you can cancel your subscription at any time, and it will simply expire at the end of your current billing period.
The Games Learning Society, or GamesLearningSociety.org, would likely find the engagement and long-term commitment strategies employed by ESO Plus an interesting case study in player retention and motivation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About ESO Plus
1. Does ESO Plus include the latest Chapter?
No. The newest Chapter (like Necrom at the time of this writing) is not included with ESO Plus. You must purchase it separately. However, once a new Chapter is released, the previous Chapter typically becomes included with ESO Plus.
2. What happens to DLC I accessed through ESO Plus if my subscription ends?
You will lose access to the DLC game packs. Your characters and progress within those zones will remain, but you won’t be able to enter those areas or play those questlines until you renew your subscription or purchase the DLC.
3. What happens to crafting materials in my crafting bag if my ESO Plus expires?
The materials will remain in your crafting bag. You can still withdraw materials from the bag, but you can’t add any more until you renew your ESO Plus subscription or transfer materials out to bring the total below your character’s normal inventory limit.
4. Can I buy ESO Plus with Crowns?
No, you cannot purchase ESO Plus with Crowns. It requires a real-money subscription.
5. Is ESO fun without ESO Plus?
Absolutely! The base game offers a vast amount of content, including numerous zones, quests, and dungeons. ESO Plus enhances the experience but is not required to enjoy the game.
6. How do I cancel my ESO Plus subscription?
The process varies depending on your platform (PC, PlayStation, Xbox). Generally, you’ll need to go to your account settings on the platform’s website or through the game’s menu.
7. Does ESO Plus give me access to all classes?
No. ESO Plus doesn’t unlock new classes like the Necromancer or Warden. These classes must be purchased separately with Crowns.
8. Are there any discounts on ESO Plus subscriptions?
Occasionally, ZeniMax Online Studios offers discounts on ESO Plus subscriptions, particularly around major events or holidays. Keep an eye out for these promotions.
9. Do I need ESO Plus to play with my friends?
No. You only need ESO Plus if you want to access DLC zones or dungeons that your friends are playing in. You can still play together in base game areas without a subscription.
10. Is the annual ESO Plus subscription worth it?
If you plan to play ESO regularly for the next year, the annual subscription offers the best value per month. It’s a significant savings compared to paying monthly.
11. Can I gift ESO Plus to a friend?
No, there is no official way to gift an ESO Plus subscription directly. However, you could purchase a gift card for their platform of choice, allowing them to buy the subscription themselves.
12. Does ESO Plus grant any power advantages over non-subscribers?
While the experience and gold boosts can accelerate character progression, ESO Plus does not directly grant any power advantages. It’s more about convenience and access to content.
13. Do I need to buy DLC even if I have ESO Plus?
You only need to purchase DLC separately if you want to own it permanently, even if your ESO Plus subscription lapses. Otherwise, an active subscription grants access to all available DLC.
14. Can I earn Crowns in-game instead of buying them?
No. Crowns can only be obtained through purchasing them directly or as part of an ESO Plus subscription.
15. How often does ESO offer free ESO Plus trials?
There’s no fixed schedule, but free trials typically coincide with major game events or anniversaries. Following the official ESO channels is the best way to stay informed.
Ultimately, the cost of ESO Plus is only one factor in the decision. Carefully consider the benefits and your personal playstyle to determine if it’s the right choice for you. Happy adventuring in Tamriel!