The Elder Scrolls 6: Avoiding Skyrim's Overwhelming Editions
The Elder Scrolls 6 should aim for a more streamlined approach, avoiding the overwhelming number of editions seen in Skyrim While additional features can enhance gameplay, too many options can divide the community and create confusion
When it comes to releasing multiple editions of a game, The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim definitely takes the lead. Currently, there are five versions available: Standard, Legendary, Special, VR, and Anniversary Edition. While each edition offers its own unique changes and additions, this has caused some issues within the community.
While releasing new editions isn't a negative thing, the way Skyrim has handled it has caused quite a bit of controversy. Fans have been known to argue which edition is superior between the Special and Anniversary Editions. In order to avoid this kind of division, it would be wise for The Elder Scrolls 6 to have a more sustainable long-term plan.
The Elder Scrolls 6 Needs Far Fewer Editions Than Skyrim
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When it comes to new editions, players often anticipate a refreshed version of their favorite game with new content or updated features. For instance, the Special Edition of Skyrim offered a more advanced gaming experience by revamping the game's graphics and textures. However, for a game like Skyrim, this update interfered with one of its most iconic aspects - its modding community.
Modding has been an integral part of The Elder Scrolls community for years, with mods for The Elder Scrolls 3: Morrowind being made as early as 2002. However, with every new edition comes new coding that must be done to adapt to it. Unfortunately, when Skyrim's Special Edition was released, many players were disappointed because none of the mods created for the Standard/Legendary Edition were compatible with it.
Multiple editions of a game can cause issues with the core aspects of its community that should not be overlooked. Though they may sell well, it is important for The Elder Scrolls 6 to aim for far fewer editions than Skyrim. Additionally, constantly purchasing new editions of the same game over the course of a decade or longer could be tiring for those who are just eager for the next installment. Despite the differences between Skyrim's several editions, the inclusion of a new edition can be somewhat disruptive for many who enjoy the game as it is.
It is crucial that The Elder Scrolls 6 learns from Skyrim's success in terms of its modding community. The community's dedication in creating new content has kept the game relevant and enjoyable even after a decade since its initial release. Some of the best Skyrim mods add new weapons and locations, adding to the already vast content outside of the main campaign. However, having too many editions could hinder this progress. Therefore, The Elder Scrolls 6 should avoid having an excessive amount of editions. With the release date still years away, Bethesda has ample time to develop a better plan for post-launch content that includes fewer editions than Skyrim.
The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim is available now for PC, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
