The Unparalleled Impact of Skyrim: Will The Elder Scrolls 6 and Starfield Surpass It?

Highlights

The internet played a significant role in the success of The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim, with gamers sharing mods and memes about the game for years.

Memes, similar to other comedic forms, should arise organically and not be forced. Therefore, it would be in Bethesda's best interest to refrain from attempting to recreate Skyrim's iconic memetic influence in their upcoming game releases. Instead, Bethesda should prioritize ensuring that their upcoming titles, Starfield and The Elder Scrolls 6, are released in a thoroughly refined state to minimize any glitches or bugs, even if this entails sacrificing their meme-generating potential.

Games are a significant aspect of internet culture, with numerous websites dedicated to discussing the latest releases, reporting on important video game news, and providing player-made strategy guides. The internet plays a crucial role in spreading the popularity of games through word of mouth. Among the games beloved by the internet, The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim stands out as a favorite.

Upon its release in 2011, Skyrim was an instant success, selling 3.4 million copies within two days. However, a significant portion of its continued success can be attributed to the internet. Gamers have been sharing mods and engaging in conversations about the game for years, whether it's to express admiration or amusement. At one point, the famous "arrow to the knee" joke was as widely known as the phrase "the cake is a lie," and even the opening sequence of Skyrim became a surprising punchline. Bethesda, the game's developer, may find it challenging to surpass the memetic legacy that precedes Skyrim.

One Does Not Simply Force a Meme into a Bethesda Game

Players don't simply understand memes by existing, as it requires a deeper level of comprehension. Memes naturally emerge as individuals engage with entertaining media throughout their lives, although social media has seen a rise in the popularity of repetitive and refreshed jokes. The gaming industry, including games like Skyrim, has its fair share of memes. Bethesda, as a game developer, is even considered a meme among fans who often question whether certain elements in their games are intentional bugs or intentional features, with the answer usually being a humorous "yes".

However, memes are similar to other forms of comedy in that they cannot be forced. Viewers generally do not appreciate being told to find something funny, as it often backfires and becomes a joke in itself, as demonstrated by numerous failed attempts at humor during past E3 press conferences. Bethesda may strive to surpass Skyrim with their upcoming games, such as Elder Scrolls 6 and Starfield, but it is unlikely they will forcefully impose memes on players. This departure from the traditional approach may mark a new chapter for Bethesda with their upcoming releases.

Elder Scrolls 6 and Starfield Need More Features Than Bugs

If the internet can be partially credited for Skyrim's enduring post-launch success, another contributing factor is undoubtedly the game's glitches and awkward moments. From spinning animal carcasses to misplaced NPCs and even underwater couriers, these hiccups have not only entertained players but also cemented Skyrim's meme status.

To be fair, Bethesda was swift in addressing and resolving these issues, considering the massive scale of Skyrim then and now. However, as the expectations surrounding glitches and bugs have evolved, Bethesda cannot afford to release Starfield and The Elder Scrolls 6 in anything less than a polished state. Given the immense anticipation for these titles, the studio must ensure a glitch-free experience upon release.

The aim is for these titles to be released in a way that ensures satisfaction with the final product, despite the challenges that come with the massive scale promised by a game like Starfield. Ultimately, this may result in some opportunities for Starfield and ES6 to become memes being lost, but regardless, both titles are expected to offer an equally fantastic adventure similar to what Skyrim once provided. The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim is currently available for PC, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.