Today, Bethesda held an event revolving around the Blackwood Chapter of The Elder Scrolls Online. During this broadcast, the developers revealed an enhanced version of the massive MMO for Xbox Series X|S and PlayStation 5. This version is aptly named, The Elder Scrolls Online: Console Enhanced.
The Elder Scrolls Online: Console Enhanced version will release on June 8, 2021 and be free to those who own the game on Xbox One and PlayStation 4. As the trailer showed, the enhanced version of the game includes an impressive list of features that make Tamriel almost unrecognizable.
- Next-Gen Performance: Previously, ESO ran at 30FPS on console, but with the next-generation power of Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5, the game will run at a crisp 60FPS while in “Performance Mode.” If you’re looking for a visual feast, enjoy native 4K at 30FPS in ESO’s “Fidelity Mode.”
- Increased Draw Distance: For players who love to admire ESO’s vast beauty, the game’s draw distance has nearly been doubled, allowing a deeper view of the ever-growing world of Tamriel.
- Improved Loading Times: Moving up to next-generation power means loading times on Xbox Series X|S and PlayStation 5 have been nearly cut in half on average, enabling console players to remain immersed in ESO’s stunning world with less waiting.
- And MUCH more: ESO: Console Enhanced brings about a number of other changes like improved reflections, shadows, depth of field, ambient occlusion with screen space global illumination, along with updated antialiasing and unlocked textures.
Of course this event wasn’t just about the Console Enhanced version of ESO. Rather, it was primarily focusing on the upcoming Blackwood chapter that will serve the larger Gates of Oblivion story throughout 2021. Bethesda revealed a preview of what you can expect when Blackwood releases in June.
When The Elder Scrolls Online: Blackwood releases on June 1, 2021, players will expose the daedric plots and tyrannical schemes consuming the region and must discover their connection to the Prince of Destruction and his dreadful plans for Tamriel.
Additionally, players will also get to experience the game’s new companion system. Bethesda described the system below:
Additionally, players can look forward to our all-new Companions System, designed so whether you play single-player or with friends online, you’ll never have to adventure alone again. Unlocked via the Blackwood main storyline, players can choose between two new companions to start with, whose playstyle you’ll define through selecting their gear and leveling up their skills. Each companion has their own personality, likes and dislikes, and unique questlines. Oh, and be careful with your actions as the deeds you perform will influence rapport with your companion.
You can pre-purchase The Elder Scrolls Online: Blackwood on the ESO Online store and other platform stores today. The expansion will launch on PC on June 1, 2021 and then on June 8, 2021 for The Elder Scrolls Online: Console Enhanced version.
