CP vs. No CP in Elder Scrolls Online: A Deep Dive

The core difference between CP (Champion Points) and no CP (non-Champion Points) gameplay in Elder Scrolls Online (ESO) boils down to a single, impactful factor: the presence or absence of the Champion Point system’s bonuses. In CP campaigns and the open world, characters gain access to powerful passive bonuses accumulated through Champion Points earned after reaching level 50. These points are spent in three constellations – Warfare, Craft, and Fitness – significantly augmenting character stats, damage output, healing, and resource management. In no CP campaigns, these bonuses are entirely disabled, leveling the playing field and creating a more raw, gear and skill-dependent combat experience. This fundamental alteration drastically changes both PvE and PvP encounters.

The Champion Point System: Power Unleashed

Earning and Spending Champion Points

After you reach level 50, you can begin to earn Champion Points, they’re earned exactly like levels, through experience points. They’re account-bound, so any character beyond level 50 earns points for your entire account and all characters can use them. Earning CP can be done through:

• Questing: Completing story arcs and side quests grants significant XP.
• Dungeons and Trials: Group content offers substantial XP rewards.
• Cyrodiil and Imperial City: PvP zones provide XP through combat and objectives.
• Delves and World Bosses: Exploring delves and defeating world bosses contribute to XP gains.
• Killing Monsters: Grinding mobs can be an efficient way to gain experience

The Impact of Champion Points

Champion Points offer a diverse range of passive bonuses that significantly impact character performance:

• Increased Stats: Boosts to health, magicka, stamina, and other core stats enhance survivability and resource pools.
• Damage Amplification: Passives that increase damage output for specific weapon types, abilities, or damage types.
• Healing and Support Enhancements: Bonuses that improve healing effectiveness, resource regeneration, and support capabilities.
• Utility and Quality of Life Improvements: Passives that enhance movement speed, crafting efficiency, and other aspects of the game.

No CP: A Return to Basics

The Absence of CP Bonuses

In no CP campaigns, the core distinguishing feature is that all Champion Points are deactivated. This means the bonuses you’ve carefully curated through hundreds of hours of gameplay simply don’t exist in that environment.

The Impact of No CP

The removal of Champion Point bonuses has a profound impact on gameplay:

• Increased Difficulty: Without CP bonuses, NPC encounters become significantly more challenging, requiring greater tactical awareness and careful planning.
• Emphasis on Gear and Skill: Character power relies primarily on gear quality, set bonuses, and player skill.
• More Balanced PvP: In PvP, the absence of CP bonuses levels the playing field, reducing the power gap between experienced and newer players. Skill, strategy, and teamwork become paramount.

What Does No CP Mean?

When joining a campaign, it implies that the benefits of Champion Points are disabled and don’t apply to the character. This changes the game since NPC encounters will be harder. It can change the way you approach to kill or survive enemy players.

Choosing Your Battlefield: CP vs. No CP

Considerations for PvP

When deciding between CP and no CP PvP, consider the following:

• CP PvP: Favors experienced players with optimized builds and maxed-out Champion Points. Rewards investment and knowledge of the game’s mechanics.
• No CP PvP: Offers a more level playing field, emphasizing skill, teamwork, and strategy. Appeals to players who enjoy raw combat and tactical maneuvering.

Considerations for PvE

The choice between CP and no CP PvE depends on your preferences:

• CP PvE: Provides a smoother and faster-paced experience, allowing players to overcome challenges more easily.
• No CP PvE: Offers a greater sense of challenge and accomplishment, requiring players to carefully plan their builds and strategies.

FAQs About CP and No CP in ESO

1. What happens at CP160?

CP 160 is the gear cap in ESO, allowing you to officially collect your end-game gear.

2. Can I reset my CP?

Yes, you can reset your Champion Points by opening your Champion Point Interface for your respective platform.

3. Why do some players prefer no CP campaigns?

They offer a more balanced and challenging experience, emphasizing skill and teamwork over character power. Some players find the raw combat more engaging and rewarding.

4. How does gear progression differ between CP and no CP?

In CP campaigns, gear progression continues indefinitely, as players constantly seek better gear to optimize their builds. In no CP campaigns, gear progression is capped at CP 160, allowing players to focus on other aspects of character development.

5. Does CP increase DPS in ESO?

Yes, Champion Points can significantly increase your DPS.

6. Is Imperial City worth playing in a no CP campaign?

Yes. Imperial City will have lots of history and cultural significance.

7. What is the maximum Champion Point cap in ESO?

The max is at 3600 Champion Points.

8. How long does it take to reach the Champion Point cap?

It takes about a month to a month and a half. You need to play around three or so hours daily.

9. What is the best way to earn Champion Points quickly?

Blackrose Prison Arena is currently one of the best grind spots available.

10. Are there specific builds optimized for no CP gameplay?

Yes, many builds are specifically designed for no CP environments.

11. How does the absence of CP affect resource management?

The absence of CP bonuses can make resource management more challenging, as players have less access to passive resource regeneration and cost reduction.

12. Can I switch between CP and no CP campaigns at any time?

Yes, you can freely switch between CP and no CP campaigns.

13. How do set bonuses impact gameplay in no CP campaigns?

Set bonuses become even more important in no CP campaigns, as they provide a significant source of character power.

14. Is it possible to succeed in PvP without Champion Points?

Yes, it is possible to succeed in PvP without Champion Points.

15. Where can I find more information about ESO gameplay mechanics?

There are many resources available online, including the official Elder Scrolls Online website, fan-made wikis, and community forums. Studying the interplay between learning and gameplay is valuable, you can also find valuable insights into the connection between games and learning at the Games Learning Society, an organization dedicated to researching and promoting the educational aspects of gaming. Visit their website at GamesLearningSociety.org.

ESO offers a diverse range of experiences for players of all skill levels and playstyles. Whether you prefer the power and progression of CP campaigns or the raw challenge and balanced gameplay of no CP campaigns, there’s something for everyone in the world of Tamriel. Understanding the nuances of each system is key to maximizing your enjoyment and achieving your goals in the game.