The Elder Scrolls Online has finally introduced a feature long-awaited by its dedicated fanbase: the addition of subclasses to the game. This significant update enhances player flexibility and enriches the overall gameplay experience. Dive in to discover how this works and what's on the horizon for future updates.
As The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO) celebrates its 10th Anniversary, Zenimax Online Studios has unveiled exciting plans for the game. During the ESO Direct 2025 event on April 10, the developers announced the much-anticipated introduction of subclassing, a feature fans have been requesting for over a decade.
Previously, whenever a new skill tree was added to ESO, players had to start from scratch to access the latest content, which was a significant frustration for many in the MMO community. The new subclass system allows players to mix and match skill lines without the need to reroll their characters, offering a fresh approach to character development.
To utilize the subclass feature, players must first reach level 50. At this point, they can retain one skill line from their original class and swap out two others with any from the six available classes. This innovative system opens up over 3000 combinations, enabling players to tailor their playstyle to their preferences.
ESO Game Director Rich Lambert expressed confidence in the new feature, noting that extensive testing has been conducted. Despite the potential for increased Power Levels, Lambert stated that the team is comfortable with the current balance.
ZeniMax Online is shifting its focus to seasonal content, which Studio Director Matt Firor believes will allow for more experimentation in content delivery and addressing player feedback. He said, "We want to keep telling great stories, but also mix in new ideas and gameplay systems, and that's exactly what we're going to do, but we'll do this in a different cadence, one that allows us, the developers, to broaden our focus and increase variety."
The upcoming chapter, titled Seasons of the Worm Cult, is a significant sequel to the original Molag Bal storyline, developed over the past decade. It introduces the Isle of Solstice, a new zone where players will delve into the resurgence of the Worm Cult.
Producer Susan Kath emphasized that while the Seasons of the Worm Cult will span most of the year, future seasons are planned to last between three to six months. ZeniMax also plans to introduce "remix" seasons, revisiting previous storylines, with a teased Dark Brotherhood-themed season in the works.
On April 11, ESO announced via Twitter (X) a new 2025 Content Pass and Premium Edition, which will include all previous and upcoming releases. The pass features the following:
Both editions will also offer a unique set of collectibles:
Additionally, those who purchase either the 2025 Content Pass or the Premium Edition will receive a special mount, pet, and memento upon the release of Seasons of the Cult Part 1 in June.
ESO is also offering Early Purchase rewards for a limited time, including the Mages Guild Recall customized action, available until May 7. Other rewards include:
These rewards are available until June 2 for PC and June 18 for Xbox and PlayStation consoles.
The Premium Edition provides access to all previously released Chapters and Classes, including:
As ESO celebrates its 10th anniversary, the game continues to expand its rich narrative and support its vibrant community. Plans to revisit and complete previous storylines promise to deepen the game's lore. The Elder Scrolls Online is available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC.