The Elder Scrolls Online has come a long way since it was first released in 2014, with multiple expansions, updates, and improvements. But as 2025 approaches, the question arises: is ESO still worth playing? How does it compare to the mainline Elder Scrolls games Skyrim, Oblivion, and Morrowind? Let's delve into the world of Tamriel and explore what ESO has to offer in 2025.

A Living, Breathing Tamriel

One of the most compelling aspects of ESO is its vast, open world. Unlike the single-player Elder Scrolls games, which focus on a single province (like Skyrim or Morrowind), ESO allows players to explore nearly all of Tamriel. From the frozen tundras of Skyrim to the lush forests of Valenwood and the volcanic landscapes of Morrowind, the game offers an unprecedented level of exploration. Each zone is meticulously crafted, with unique environments, cultures, and stories that make the world feel alive.

In 2025, ESO’s world-building remains one of its strongest features. The game’s developers have continued to expand the map with regular updates and expansions, adding new zones like High Isle, Galen, and the mysterious lands of Necrom. These additions ensure that there’s always something new to discover, whether you’re a veteran player or a newcomer.

Character Customization and Class Freedom

One of the standout features of ESO is its deep character customization system. At the start of the game, players choose from one of several classes, such as the Dragonknight, Warden, or Necromancer. However, unlike traditional MMORPGs, your class doesn’t lock you into a specific role. Instead, ESO offers a flexible system where your abilities are determined by the skills you choose to level up and the weapons you equip.

For example, a Dragonknight can be built as a tank, a damage dealer, or even a healer, depending on how you allocate your skill points and gear. This flexibility allows players to create unique builds that suit their playstyle. Want to be a frost mage who wields a two-handed greatsword? You can do that. Prefer a stealthy archer with a touch of necromancy? That’s possible too.

In 2025, this system remains one of ESO’s most praised features. The game encourages experimentation and creativity, allowing players to tailor their characters to their preferences without being constrained by rigid class roles.

Combat: A Mix of Action and Strategy

ESO’s combat system is a blend of action-oriented mechanics and traditional MMORPG elements. Players use a combination of light and heavy attacks, blocking, dodging, and abilities tied to their skill bars. The game’s combat is often described as “floaty” by some players, a critique that has persisted since its launch. However, the system has its strengths, particularly in its emphasis on resource management and skill rotations.

In 2025, the combat system has seen refinements, with improvements to animation fluidity and responsiveness. While it may not reach the level of precision seen in action RPGs, it strikes a balance that appeals to both casual and hardcore players. The addition of weapon-swapping at level 15 adds another layer of depth, allowing players to switch between two sets of skills mid-combat. This feature is particularly useful in both PvE and PvP scenarios, where adaptability can mean the difference between victory and defeat.

Questing and Storytelling

One area where ESO truly shines is its storytelling. The game features a rich narrative that spans the entire continent of Tamriel, with each zone offering its own self-contained storylines. These quests are fully voice-acted, a rarity in MMORPGs, and feature the same level of depth and choice that fans of the Elder Scrolls series have come to expect.

In 2025, ESO’s questing remains a highlight. The game avoids the typical MMORPG trope of generic “kill 10 rats” quests, instead focusing on engaging narratives with meaningful choices. For example, a quest in Morrowind might involve solving a murder mystery, while a quest in Skyrim could pit you against a powerful dragon. The game’s writing is consistently strong, with memorable characters and moral dilemmas that keep players invested.

Crafting and Gathering 

Crafting in ESO is a robust system that allows players to create weapons, armor, potions, and enchantments. The system is reminiscent of the single-player Elder Scrolls games, with players gathering materials like iron ore, herbs, and runes to craft items. However, ESO adds its own twist by tying crafting progression to deconstructing items, which grants experience and unlocks new recipes.

In 2025, crafting remains a viable and rewarding activity. The game’s economy is heavily influenced by player-crafted items, making crafting a lucrative endeavor for those willing to invest the time. Additionally, the introduction of new crafting motifs and styles ensures that there’s always something new to create and collect.

Endgame Content: PvE and PvP

For many players, the endgame is where an MMORPG truly shines, and ESO Gold delivers on this front. The game offers a variety of endgame activities, including dungeons, trials (raids), and world bosses. These challenges are designed for groups, requiring coordination and strategy to overcome. However, ESO also caters to solo players, with much of its open-world content being accessible without a group.

In 2025, ESO’s endgame content continues to expand, with new dungeons and trials being added regularly. The game’s PvP mode, set in the massive zone of Cyrodiil, remains a popular activity. Here, players can engage in large-scale battles between the game’s three factions, vying for control of keeps and resources. The addition of smaller-scale PvP modes, like Battlegrounds, provides additional options for those who prefer more focused combat.

Monetization and Accessibility

ESO’s monetization model is one of the most player-friendly in the MMORPG genre. The base game and its expansions are available for purchase, but the game also offers an optional subscription called ESO Plus. This subscription grants access to all DLC (excluding the latest chapter), a crafting bag for unlimited material storage, and other quality-of-life benefits.

In 2025, ESO’s monetization remains fair and non-intrusive. The cash shop primarily offers cosmetic items, such as mounts, costumes, and housing decorations, with no pay-to-win elements. This approach ensures that all players, regardless of their spending, can enjoy the game on an equal footing.

The Verdict: Is ESO Worth Playing in 2025?

The answer is a resounding yes. The Elder Scrolls Online has matured into one of the most content-rich and player-friendly MMORPGs on the market. Its vast world, deep customization, engaging storytelling, and flexible gameplay make it a standout title in the genre. Whether you’re a fan of the Elder Scrolls series or simply looking for a new MMORPG to sink your teeth into, ESO offers something for everyone.

In 2025, the game continues to thrive, thanks to regular updates and a dedicated player base. While it may not replicate the single-player experience of Skyrim or Oblivion, it captures the spirit of the Elder Scrolls universe in a way that feels fresh and exciting. So, if you’ve ever dreamed of exploring all of Tamriel with friends (or solo), now is the perfect time to dive into The Elder Scrolls Online.