What are the 3 Alliances in ESO?
The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO) features three distinct alliances fighting for control of Tamriel and the Ruby Throne: the Aldmeri Dominion, the Daggerfall Covenant, and the Ebonheart Pact. Each alliance is comprised of multiple races, united by shared goals and historical ties, each with their own unique cultures, values, and territories. Choosing an alliance determines your starting location and who you fight alongside in the Alliance War.
Delving Deeper into the Alliances
Understanding the motivations, strengths, and weaknesses of each alliance is crucial for making an informed decision when starting your ESO journey. Let’s explore each in detail:
The Aldmeri Dominion: Elven Supremacy and Imperial Restoration
The Aldmeri Dominion is an alliance of Elven races – the High Elves (Altmer), the Wood Elves (Bosmer), and the Khajiit. Led by Queen Ayrenn of the High Elves, the Dominion believes that they are the rightful heirs to Tamriel’s throne, seeing the decline of the human-led Empire as a sign that it’s time for Elven leadership to be restored.
- Altmer (High Elves): Known for their magical prowess, intelligence, and sophisticated culture, the High Elves consider themselves the most civilized race in Tamriel. They believe in maintaining the established order and preserving their traditions. They originate from Summerset Isle.
- Bosmer (Wood Elves): The Wood Elves are skilled archers and trackers who live in harmony with the forests of Valenwood. They are more pragmatic and less concerned with societal norms than their High Elf cousins. Their culture is often considered strange or even barbaric by outsiders.
- Khajiit: Native to Elsweyr, the Khajiit are a feline race known for their agility, cunning, and unique cultures. They are skilled merchants and artisans, and their allegiance to the Dominion is driven by a mutual need for protection and trade opportunities.
The Dominion offers a strong focus on magic, diplomacy, and strategic alliances. Their territory is visually stunning, ranging from the lush forests of Valenwood to the sun-drenched shores of Elsweyr and the majestic cities of Summerset. Playing as a Dominion character allows you to experience a sophisticated and politically charged storyline.
The Daggerfall Covenant: Honor, Trade, and a Return to Glory
The Daggerfall Covenant is an alliance of Humans and Orcs – the Bretons, the Redguards, and the Orcs (Orsimer). United by a shared desire for stability, economic prosperity, and the restoration of the Second Empire, they are led by High King Emeric of the Bretons.
- Bretons: The Bretons are a race of skilled mages and diplomats who hail from High Rock. They are known for their pragmatic nature, their understanding of politics and commerce, and their strong connection to the mystical.
- Redguards: Native to Hammerfell, the Redguards are renowned warriors, celebrated for their martial prowess and unwavering honor. They value freedom, independence, and the ability to defend themselves.
- Orcs (Orsimer): The Orcs, originally from Orsinium, are a proud and fiercely independent race of skilled blacksmiths and warriors. They seek recognition and respect within Tamriel and see the Covenant as an opportunity to secure their place in the world.
The Covenant emphasizes honor, military strength, and economic development. Their territory is diverse, ranging from the mountainous landscapes of High Rock to the deserts of Hammerfell and the rugged terrain of Orsinium. Playing as a Covenant character offers a chance to participate in a more militaristic and adventurous storyline.
The Ebonheart Pact: An Unlikely Alliance Born of Necessity
The Ebonheart Pact is a unique alliance forged out of necessity between the Nords, the Dark Elves (Dunmer), and the Argonians. Led by a council of representatives from each race, the Pact was formed to defend their homelands from outside threats, particularly the Empire and the Aldmeri Dominion.
- Nords: The Nords are a hardy and courageous race from Skyrim, known for their strength, their love of battle, and their resistance to the cold. They are fierce warriors and skilled sailors.
- Dunmer (Dark Elves): Native to Morrowind, the Dark Elves are intelligent, powerful, and often seen as mysterious and aloof. They are skilled mages and warriors, with a long and complex history.
- Argonians: The Argonians are a reptilian race native to Black Marsh, adapted to the harsh and humid environment. They are known for their resilience, their stealth, and their strong connection to the Hist, a sentient tree species.
The Pact emphasizes unity, strength in diversity, and a pragmatic approach to survival. Their territory is challenging and diverse, ranging from the snow-covered peaks of Skyrim to the volcanic plains of Morrowind and the treacherous swamps of Black Marsh. Playing as a Pact character offers a chance to experience a storyline focused on overcoming adversity and forging alliances across cultural divides.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about ESO Alliances
1. Can I play with friends in other Alliances?
Yes! With the One Tamriel update, players of all alliances can group together and play in any zone. However, you will still be aligned with your chosen alliance for the Alliance War in Cyrodiil.
2. Does my Alliance choice affect my character’s skills?
No. Your alliance choice does not affect your character’s skill lines or abilities. All classes and skill lines are available regardless of your chosen alliance.
3. Can I change my Alliance after character creation?
Yes, but it requires purchasing an Alliance Change Token from the Crown Store (ESO’s premium currency shop). This allows you to re-align your character to a different alliance.
4. Does my Alliance choice affect the main storyline?
While the main storyline is largely the same regardless of your alliance, the starting quests and zone order will differ. Your alliance determines your starting zone and the initial quests you undertake.
5. What is the Alliance War in Cyrodiil?
The Alliance War is a large-scale player versus player (PvP) conflict fought in the province of Cyrodiil, where the three alliances battle for control of keeps, resources, and ultimately, the Ruby Throne.
6. Does race matter when choosing an Alliance?
While you can choose any race for any alliance, certain race and alliance combinations may have more flavorful lore implications. Ultimately, the best choice is the one that appeals to you the most.
7. What are the benefits of winning the Alliance War?
Winning the Alliance War provides access to rewards such as Alliance Points (AP), which can be used to purchase powerful gear and items. Furthermore, the alliance that controls Cyrodiil gains bragging rights and a sense of accomplishment.
8. Are there any unique quests or storylines specific to each Alliance?
Yes, each alliance has its own unique storyline that unfolds as you progress through their respective zones. These storylines explore the history, culture, and political landscape of each alliance.
9. Can I travel to zones belonging to other Alliances?
Yes, after completing the main storyline, you can travel to the zones of other alliances and experience their content. This is part of the One Tamriel update.
10. What is the “Any Race, Any Alliance” option?
Purchasing the “Any Race, Any Alliance” Upgrade from the Crown Store removes the race restrictions, allowing you to choose any race for any alliance.
11. How does my Alliance choice impact crafting?
Your Alliance choice has no impact on your crafting abilities or access to crafting materials. Crafting is universal across all alliances.
12. What is the best Alliance for PvP?
There is no definitive “best” alliance for PvP. The strength of each alliance in Cyrodiil often fluctuates based on player population, strategies, and overall coordination.
13. Are there any Alliance-specific Guilds?
While guilds can often align themselves with an alliance for roleplaying purposes, there are no official, game-enforced alliance-specific guilds.
14. Does my Alliance choice impact my ability to complete achievements?
No. Achievements are generally not tied to alliance affiliation, with the exception of those directly related to the Alliance War.
15. What is the overall theme or focus of each Alliance?
The Aldmeri Dominion focuses on Elven supremacy and restoring the Empire to its former glory under Elven leadership. The Daggerfall Covenant focuses on honor, trade, and rebuilding the Second Empire. The Ebonheart Pact emphasizes unity, survival, and defending their lands against external threats.