With the long-awaited release of The Elder Scrolls 6 on the horizon, fans are eager to see how Bethesda will navigate the legacy left by Skyrim, especially after more than a decade since its debut. While anticipation builds for an exploration of a new region of Tamriel in stunning detail, it’s hard to overlook the substantial impact The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO) continues to have. ESO has successfully revived the class-based systems from earlier games in the series, expanding the universe with deeper lore that could very well shape how The Elder Scrolls 6 incorporates novel gameplay elements, like death magic, as a player choice.
In the vast world of Tamriel, the role of a necromancer is not unheard of, yet it has never been a formal build option for players. Traditionally, what we might consider necromancy-related spells have been scattered among the Conjuration, Restoration, and Mysticism schools. This has often left those pursuing a necromancer role without cohesive synergy. ESO, however, has established a solid foundation by introducing a unified necromancer class, setting a precedent that highlights the potential strengths and weaknesses this character type might bring to the series.
Now, let’s delve into how ESO’s approach to a minion-based playstyle has unfolded. Although promising in theory, the execution of the Necromancer class in ESO hasn’t fully captured the essence of commanding an undead horde. Limited durations on raised minions dilute the fantasy of summoning vast armies from the afterlife. Despite these limitations, the class compensates by offering versatility through various builds that diverge from pure summoning tactics.
One of the greatest achievements of the necromancer class in ESO is its adaptability, allowing for a variety of strategic choices. Beyond raising minions, players can explore builds like the Bone Tyrant, which emphasizes a tank-like presence with defensive capabilities, or the Living Death, which pivots towards healing and support roles. While the Grave Lord Necromancer aligns closely with traditional minion mastery, it also delves into damage-over-time spells, indicating room for further refinement and expansion of the necromancer’s identity in future titles.
For The Elder Scrolls 6 to successfully integrate a necromancer build without disrupting the established magic system, careful handling is essential. Traditionally, Mysticism encompassed spells like Soul Trap and Detect Life until its elements were absorbed into other magic schools with Skyrim’s release. As things stand, Conjuration is the main avenue for death-related magic. Hence, introducing necromancy with unique abilities, like powerful reanimation or life-draining spells, could complement existing schools rather than creating an entirely new classification.
A noteworthy aspect of the necromancer class, acknowledged by ESO, is its controversial nature. Casting necromancy spells in public is frowned upon, aligning with the dark practices of the most notorious necromancers in the Elder Scrolls universe. Bethesda faces a critical decision on whether to feature a playstyle that might alienate players from NPC interactions, depending on how these magical pursuits impact one’s reputation in The Elder Scrolls 6.
In their quest for innovation, the developers might take inspiration from the nuanced narratives and rich lore that ESO has cultivated over the years. Integrating these elements could significantly enhance the depth of The Elder Scrolls 6, setting it apart not just from Skyrim but from its predecessors, crafting a fresh yet familiar experience for both new and returning adventurers alike.
