‘The Elder Scrolls Online’ has a release date for PC/Mac, console versions to follow

By Adam Rosenberg December 11, 2013

elder scrolls online set launch april 2014 macpc — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Check out our review of The Elder Scrolls Online.

The Elder Scrolls Online is set to launch for Mac and PC on April 4, 2014, Bethesda confirms. The planned PlayStation 4 and Xbox One versions will follow sometime in June 2014.

The upcoming game marks Bethesda’s first foray into the realm of massively multiplayer gaming, compliments of ZeniMax Online Studios. It fuses the open world approach of past Elder Scrolls titles with the long-asked-for inclusion of multiplayer-driven adventuring. The game’s story is set 1,000 years before the events of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, during a time of great strife. Three main factions do battle with one another for control of the lands, all while the Daedric prince Molag Bal tries to mess things up for everyone. Check out or pre-E3 preview for more on the game.

Unlike many new MMO titles (and some older ones) that have embraced the free-to-play business model in some form or another, Bethesda is going with an up-front cost coupled with a monthly $14.99 subscription.

Bethesda released a new trailer for The Elder Scrolls Online to celebrate the release date news. You can check it out below.

Topics

Apple

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Previously, Adam worked in the games press as a freelance writer and critic for a range of outlets, including Digital Trends…

Gaming

The Elder Scrolls Online: Everything you need to know about Companions

ESO Companion preparing for combat.

The Elder Scrolls Online recently launched the Blackwood Chapter, offering a whole new region to explore along with a variety of quests, group activities, and collectibles. The biggest addition, however, is the innovative new Companion System -- which gives you a permanent follower to assist on your adventures.

Only players who have purchased the Blackwood Chapter can take advantage of the feature, but it's arguably one of the biggest -- and most exciting -- changes we've seen to ESO in years. If you're just beginning to explore the powerful Companion System, here are a few tips and tricks to get you on your way.

Gaming

ESO crafting guide: How to craft in The Elder Scrolls Online

ESO player using blacksmith station.

The Elder Scrolls Online offers a wealth of content for you to explore. Whether you're diving into dungeons, knocking out a few solo quests, or engaging in competitive PvP, there's no shortage of dangerous situations to get lost in.

Outside of combat, however, you have just as many options -- all thanks to the robust crafting system. This ESO crafting guide will teach you the basics of its intricate system, including how to deconstruct unwanted items, improve your favorite gear, and explain why crafting is so important to the ESO experience.

Gaming

The best armor sets in The Elder Scrolls Online

ESO Necromancer casting a spell.

The Elder Scrolls Online gives you hundreds of different armor sets to research, collect, and -- if they fit your build -- equip. Whether you're a spell-slinging Sorcerer, greatsword-wielding Dragonknight, or cloaked Nightblade, there's an armor set that's ideal for your playstyle. Figuring out what that is, however, is no easy task.

Not only are there three different classes of armor -- Light, Medium, and Heavy -- but different armor sets in each class confer a variety of bonuses. That means there isn't a linear hierarchy for gear. Instead, you'll need to carefully consider your needs and choose between a few top-tier armor sets.