The Elder Scrolls Online’s subclassing feature shakes up the meta in its newest update, Seasons of the Worm Cult, as the devs set their sights on harder difficulties: ‘It’s in the works’

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Yesterday saw the release of a significant update for The Elder Scrolls Online, named “Seasons of the Worm Cult“. This patch introduces several important changes to the MMO, along with an ample amount of content that’s perfect for both existing players and those returning, who can now utilize their freshly selected subclasses.

This year, I explored the concept of subclassing, which is set to bring a significant transformation to the game. Once you reach level 50 with any character, you’ll be granted access to this feature that allows for an extensive customization of “skill sets” from multiple classes. However, there are some restrictions to keep in mind.

1. To start, ensure that you maintain at least one skill set from your character’s original or primary class.

2. Additionally, remember that you can only select one skill set from a class that isn’t yours.

3. Furthermore, keep in mind that these skills will take slightly longer to level up and require more skill points to acquire abilities.

Apart from being cool and wildly fun, this method offers an exciting opportunity to develop your character – and it’s completely free for everyone at the start. Even though trends may come and go, for those who aren’t too concerned with intricate optimization, it significantly increases the options available for customizing their character’s build.

The update grants access to the sun-drenched Mediterranean-like island of Solstice, where the upcoming narrative with its more seasonal plot unfolds. This island is divided by The Writhing Wall, a formidable barrier of souls that players will break through as the story progresses.

This location showcases a fusion of Altmer and Argonian aesthetics; formerly displaced Altmer necromancers established themselves here, drove out the Argonians, leading to a conflict, but over time, they’ve largely reached a peaceful coexistence.

What stands out during my digital attendance at Jason Barnes’ presentation, alongside systems designer Carrie Day, is their commitment to ensuring decisions made within the game (with Seasons of the Worm Cult resuming after a decade) have lasting impacts. As Barnes passionately expresses, this approach is a means for them to acknowledge and respect the history of our long-term players by infusing more RPG elements into the MMO aspect of the game.

During a Q&A session, Barnes mentions that along with other enhancements for player comfort in ESO previously announced this year, the team is considering allowing players to customize the game’s challenge level. Although they are not ready to discuss details just yet, Barnes confirms that “it is being worked on.” He further clarifies that there are team members focusing on this aspect.

I’ve taken a break from Elder Scrolls Online for some time now, but my extensive MMO background has taught me that balancing difficulty in games is an ongoing struggle—especially when the game aims to attract as many players as possible. Creating challenges that cater to all players seems almost impossible.

If you tilt the balance too heavily in one direction, the game might become dull and uninteresting for its longtime followers. On the other hand, going too far in another direction can lead to a game like Wildstar. It’ll be intriguing to observe how The Elder Scrolls Online addresses the age-old question, or perhaps gives players the freedom to decide on their own path.

1. Top MMORPGs: They offer the most expansive experiences

2. Outstanding Strategy Games: These involve a lot of numerical calculations

3. Remarkable Open-World Games: They provide endless opportunities for exploration

4. Exceptional Survival Games: They encourage living, crafting, and loving (or surviving)

5. Scariest Horror Games: They challenge you with fight or flight scenarios

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2025-06-03 19:03