The Elder Scrolls Online Isnt Really An MMO Says ZeniMax Studio Head

The head of Zenimax Studios has said that The Elder Scrolls Online isn’t really an MMO during a recent interview with TheGamer. 

Now, I know what your thinking; in what way is The Elder Scrolls Online not a massively multiplayer online experience? Well, according to ZeniMax Online Studios director Matt Firor, ESO isn’t quite as intense as your standard MMO affair:

“I don’t really consider ESO to be an MMO, in the traditional “MMORPG” sense of the word, because that term is freighted with a lot of definitions that don’t apply to ESO (tab targeting, mouse movement, PC-only, super hardcore, etc.). At this point, so many game types have underlying “massively multiplayer” technology that MMO is becoming even more dated as a term. I’ve long been a fan of online games,”

Firor’s definition of an MMORPG is probably up for debate. However, the studio director does have a point. While games like World of Warcraft arguably rely on specific mechanics, ESO bears more of a resemblance to the likes of Skyrim. 

Again, that statement could probably be hotly debated. However, genre labels can be a deciding factor on whether someone tries a game or not. Therefore, by distinguishing The Elder Scrolls Online from other online experiences, the studio director is essentially making the game feel more accessible. 

While fans of The Elder Scrolls series have been historically apprehensive about the online version of the game, its popularity is growing. Since its release back in 2014, ESO has received various expansions that expand its content and lore. 

Of course, if you prefer a single-player experience, you’ll probably want to stick to the main line-up of games. However, if it’s the idea of MMO mechanics that’s been putting you off, perhaps Matt Firor’s words of wisdom will entice you to give The Elder Scrolls Online a try. Who knows, you might love it!

Oh, and if you decide to give the game a go, you can pick up a copy on the GameByte Shop.

Do you think The Elder Scrolls Online is an MMO? Join the conversation on our social channels!

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Featured Image Credit: Bethesda/ZeniMax

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