Is Elder Scrolls Online Free-to-Play Friendly? A Deep Dive
Yes and no. Elder Scrolls Online (ESO) operates on a “buy-to-play” model with an optional subscription. The base game, which you purchase once, grants access to a significant amount of content. So, you can absolutely play ESO without ever spending another dime. However, the experience is undeniably enhanced, and arguably more “friendly,” with the ESO+ subscription. Let’s unpack that.
The core gameplay loop – questing, exploring the vast world, leveling up, and experiencing the main storylines – is fully accessible without a subscription. You can spend hundreds of hours exploring Tamriel and engaging with its rich lore. However, limitations exist. These limitations mainly center around crafting, storage, and access to all downloadable content (DLC). Whether these limitations become a hindrance ultimately depends on your playstyle and priorities. This article will delve into the pros and cons of playing ESO as a free-to-play player to help you decide if it is the right choice.
The Allure of Free-to-Play ESO
Immense Content Available
The base game of ESO offers a tremendous amount of content. You have access to a significant portion of Tamriel, including zones like Stonefalls, Glenumbra, and Auridon. You also get access to the original main storyline, faction questlines, and numerous side quests. New players can easily spend hundreds of hours exploring this content before ever feeling the need for more.
No Leveling Restrictions
There are no level caps or restrictions for free players. You can level up your character, acquire skill points, and progress through the game just like a subscriber. This is a major advantage over some other MMOs that heavily restrict free players.
Social Interaction
You can freely interact with other players, join guilds, participate in group content (dungeons and trials), and trade items. The social aspect of the game is fully available to free players.
Try Before You Buy
The free-to-play option allows you to thoroughly test the game before committing to a subscription. You can experience the gameplay, explore the world, and decide if ESO is the right fit for you. It also allows you to explore multiple builds and classes to determine what you want to play before committing to ESO+.
The Limitations of Free-to-Play ESO
The Crafting Bag Bottleneck
This is arguably the biggest drawback of playing ESO without ESO+. The Crafting Bag is an exclusive feature for subscribers that provides unlimited storage for all crafting materials. Without it, managing your inventory becomes a constant chore. You’ll spend significant time running to banks, creating multiple characters for storage, and constantly deleting materials. For those interested in exploring this aspect of the game, the Games Learning Society can point you to research regarding player agency and decision-making within complex resource management systems. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org for more information.
DLC Restrictions
While the base game is extensive, it doesn’t include any of the downloadable content (DLC). These DLCs add new zones, storylines, dungeons, trials, and classes to the game. Without ESO+, you’ll need to purchase each DLC individually, which can quickly become expensive.
Limited Character Slots
The base game provides a limited number of character slots. If you enjoy experimenting with different classes and builds, you may quickly run out of slots and need to purchase additional ones.
Bank Space Limitations
Bank space is limited for free players. While you can upgrade your bank with in-game gold, it still pales in comparison to the unlimited storage provided by the Crafting Bag.
Making the Most of Free-to-Play ESO
Focus on Questing and Exploration
The base game offers a vast amount of questing and exploration content. Focus on these aspects to fully experience what ESO has to offer before worrying about crafting or endgame content.
Join a Guild
Joining a guild can help alleviate some of the limitations of free-to-play. Guildmates can provide crafting materials, help with storage, and offer advice on managing your inventory.
Prioritize Inventory Management
Learn to efficiently manage your inventory. Regularly sell or deconstruct unwanted items, and prioritize storing essential crafting materials in your limited bank space.
Consider Buying DLC Individually
If you’re not ready to commit to a subscription, consider purchasing individual DLCs that appeal to you. This allows you to experience some of the additional content without paying for a subscription every month.
Watch for Free ESO+ Events
ZeniMax Online Studios occasionally offers free ESO+ weekends. These events provide temporary access to the Crafting Bag and all DLC, allowing you to experience the benefits of the subscription firsthand.
Conclusion: Is ESO Free-to-Play Worth It?
ESO is absolutely worth playing as a free-to-play game, especially if you’re new to the game or simply want to explore the world and experience the core gameplay. The base game offers a vast amount of content, and you can easily spend hundreds of hours exploring Tamriel without spending any money. However, if you plan on investing significant time in the game, particularly if you enjoy crafting, you will find that you will eventually benefit from the subscription.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to subscribe to ESO+ depends on your individual playstyle and priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I reach the level cap as a free-to-play player?
Yes, there are no level restrictions for free players. You can reach the maximum level (currently level 50 with Champion Points) without a subscription.
2. Can I participate in dungeons and trials without ESO+?
Yes, you can participate in dungeons and trials. However, some dungeons and trials are located in DLC zones, which you won’t have access to without ESO+ or purchasing the DLC individually.
3. What are the main benefits of ESO+?
The main benefits of ESO+ are the Crafting Bag, access to all DLC, bonus experience, and additional bank space.
4. How much does ESO+ cost?
The price of ESO+ varies depending on the length of the subscription. You can subscribe monthly, quarterly, or annually.
5. Can I trade with other players as a free-to-play player?
Yes, you can freely trade with other players.
6. Can I join guilds as a free-to-play player?
Yes, you can join guilds and participate in guild activities.
7. How many character slots do I get with the base game?
The number of character slots varies but is typically around 8 slots with the base game.
8. Can I upgrade my bank space as a free-to-play player?
Yes, you can upgrade your bank space with in-game gold.
9. Do I need ESO+ to craft?
No, you don’t need ESO+ to craft, but the Crafting Bag makes crafting significantly more convenient.
10. Can I buy DLC individually instead of subscribing to ESO+?
Yes, you can purchase DLC individually from the Crown Store.
11. Will I be at a disadvantage in PvP without ESO+?
Not necessarily. While ESO+ provides some advantages, skill and strategy are the most important factors in PvP.
12. How often does ESO have free ESO+ events?
Free ESO+ events are not very common but do occur periodically. Check the official ESO website or social media channels for announcements.
13. Is it difficult to manage inventory without the Crafting Bag?
Yes, managing inventory without the Crafting Bag can be challenging, especially if you enjoy crafting.
14. Can I complete the main storyline as a free-to-play player?
Yes, you can complete the main storyline of the base game without ESO+.
15. Is ESO pay-to-win?
No, ESO is not pay-to-win. While ESO+ offers some conveniences, it doesn’t provide any unfair advantages that would make it impossible for free-to-play players to compete. The advantages are mostly focused on player comfort and easier crafting.
ESO strikes a balance between providing ample free content and offering enticing subscription benefits. Whether or not you choose to subscribe is a personal decision, but the core game is undeniably accessible and enjoyable without spending a fortune.