The Elder Scrolls 6’s Post-Launch DLC: A Double-Edged Sword

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The Elder Scrolls 6 continues to be one of the most eagerly awaited games in the gaming world. Bethesda first announced their sixth main installment in the popular fantasy RPG series way back in 2018, and since then, there’s been little information about its development. Some might think that the announcement came too soon, but make no mistake – The Elder Scrolls 6 is indeed being developed. With Starfield set to release before it, many are speculating whether Bethesda will adopt a similar strategy for their next game in the Elder Scrolls franchise.

As a gaming enthusiast, I’ve got to say that the release of Starfield was met with a mix of reactions, but what truly caught my attention was the commitment to post-launch DLC. Last year, we saw the introduction of Shattered Space as the game’s first DLC, and it’s clear that this isn’t a one-off event. Todd Howard has confirmed that Starfield is going to receive annual DLC updates.

If The Elder Scrolls 6 adopts a similar approach, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of this method.

The Pros and Cons of The Elder Scrolls 6 Sharing Starfield’s Post-Launch Roadmap

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The Case For Annual Expansions

  • Stretches the game’s longevity
  • Enhances the story and lore
  • Can offer special extra content

One advantage of this product lies in its ability to maintain the game’s longevity for years following its release. By offering regular expansions annually, it encourages players to keep coming back. These post-launch expansions can also serve as captivating additions to the main storyline, delving deeper into specific aspects of the lore. The downloadable content (DLC) for “Fallout 4,” such as “Far Harbor,” demonstrates how such additional content can provide players with engaging side stories that enrich the overall narrative.

Additionally, additional features such as novel weapons, characters, and perhaps transport means could be incorporated via yearly updates. For instance, Shattered Space enriched its gameplay by offering two extra companion choices for players, thereby expanding their crew roster. However, one significant drawback in the context of annual DLCs is:

[Even more informal]
On top of the base game, new stuff like weapons, characters, and even transport options might pop up yearly. Take Shattered Space for example, which added two extra crew members to play around with. But here’s a catch:

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[Informal]
Aside from the main game, you could see fresh add-ons like weapons, characters, and even ride types popping up yearly. For example, Shattered Space introduced two new dudes to join your crew. However, there’s a downside:

Bethesda has yet to confirm the title and release date of Starfield‘s next DLC.

The Case Against Annual Expansions

  • Development of annual DLCs takes time and resources away from other games.

Although it might seem like just one concern, it’s actually quite significant. Essentially, the additional effort poured into ‘Starfield’ post-release could potentially be redirected towards expediting the completion of ‘The Elder Scrolls 6′. This same dilemma will resurface once ‘The Elder Scrolls 6’ is out. Previously, Todd Howard has mentioned that ‘Fallout 5’ is planned after ‘The Elder Scrolls 6’, and devoting resources to creating expansions for the former might only delay a new ‘Fallout’ game further from reaching us.

The debate arises as to whether significant DLCs are essential when platforms such as Starfield’s Creation Club offer a vast array of content, both from the original creators and enthusiastic fans. It seems that Starfield might not require annual DLCs given the abundance of content already available. Following the reception of Shattered Space, which was similar to Starfield’s initial version, it could be beneficial for Bethesda to shift their focus towards their upcoming project, while keeping a dedicated team responsible for creating official, developer-approved Creations.

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According to rumors circulating from YouTuber Extas1s, there might be a significant reveal for The Elder Scrolls 6 as early as July 2025; however, it’s essential to approach this information cautiously.

The Wait Between Releases is Getting Much Longer

Many eagerly anticipate The Elder Scrolls 6, but its prolonged development has also earned notoriety, given it seems like it’s been in the works since the beginning of time. The last main entry, Skyrim, dropped in 2011, and there’s currently no end to this wait. With the advancement of game development over the years, making games more intricate and detailed, the extended delay is logical. However, while yearly DLCs can enrich a game, they may also impede the progression of future projects. It would be unfortunate if Fallout enthusiasts have to endure waiting as long as Elder Scrolls fans have.

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2025-02-23 17:47