ZeniMax Online Studios previewed two things for Elder Scrolls Online last night – and no, neither of them was a chapter, as the studio has sworn off chapters (for now?) as part of its new (and seemingly scaled-back) content cadence.
But apart from the lack of a chapter, the content thus far seems pretty similar to what players used to get in the first part of a year anyway, starting with a dungeon DLC. Called Fallen Banners, the DLC adds a pair of new four-person dungeons: Exiled Redoubt (where you infiltrate a stronghold) and Lep Seclusa (where you protect a Moth Priest sanctuary). Both promise “their own unique storylines, characters, challenges (including unique boss battles), and secrets” in addition to “unique rewards, including item sets, collectibles, and Achievements available only in these encounters.” So… ESO dungeons.
Of course, not everyone wants to shell out for dungeon DLC, and that’s where the second chunk of content, the free base-game update 45 patch, comes in. Most notably, the update includes the promised starter zone refresh teased last year.
“The starter zones of Betnikh, Stros M’kai, Bleakrock, Bal Foyen, and Khenarthi’s Roost have all undergone a makeover, bringing them more in line visually with the detail of ESO’s recent additions such as West Weald or the Telvanni Peninsula. These starter zones have received improvements to their terrain transitions, materials and lighting, and atmosphere. Signs and banners have been positioned to better highlight services (such as crafting or banking locations), and lighting has been adjusted to better define important paths and other areas of detail. With the addition of more organic clutter and props, various portions of the zones should feel a little less sparse and a little more lived in—go check them out!”
PvPers will also be happy, as it includes the “early stages of the new Cyrodiil Champions test PvP campaign,” plus we can expect faster mounts for new lowbies, a rework for some champion stars, buffs for mundus stone boons, custom waypoint colors, map improvements, new houses, and console add-on support. You read that right.
Both the update and DLC hit the PTS on January 13th, with launch on March 10th for PC/Mac and March 25th for console.
New houses are also making their way to Tamriel, following Update 45. Shattered Mirror Isle and Castle Skingrad will be available following the Q1 update!
Which do you have your eye on? 🏠 pic.twitter.com/iVi0JMAhqo— The Elder Scrolls Online (@TESOnline) January 9, 2025
