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Tamriel Infinium: The year before launching the Elder Scrolls Online
Based on the comments for this column a couple of weeks ago, it became apparent to me that many readers have very little idea about what to expect when the Elder Scrolls Online launches. And I guess with the big push of information about PvP, it would seem that that is all ESO has to offer. In some people's minds, that might still hold true. I admit that I believe PvP might be the thrust of the max-level game, but ESO will offer different things to do as you level up as well as when you hit max level. Today, for my year-end review of ESO, I will attempt to paint a picture of the Elder Scrolls Online game based on what we know so far. I think you'll find that the game does have more to offer than PvP, but ultimately, I'll let you decide if it's enough.
New Elder Scrolls Online video shows off character creation
For some players, getting the unique look of their character just right is the first step to enjoying an MMO, a fact the Elder Scrolls Online devs understand. In this new video, Art Director Jared Carr not only explains that the team wanted to offer a robust customization system for characters, but he demonstrates the system as well. Players can watch as Carr walks through character creation, showing off the multitude of sliders and palettes available for both the body and the face. From defining your physique to skin color to separate body and face tattoos, players will find plenty of options to create their own look. You can see all the details for yourself in the video after the break.
Elder Scrolls Online art director talks MMO limitations and stylistic influences
What's up with the stylized visuals on display in The Elder Scrolls Online's recent screenshot and video reveals? It's all about marrying various takes on Tamriel with the limitations of MMORPGs, according to ZeniMax Online art director Jared Carr. "We're not really at the technical state with MMOs to be able to pull off photorealism," Carr explains. He goes on to say that the target is 200 characters on screen for the game's massive battles, and he also notes that despite concessions to tech limits and travel times, TESO is heavily influenced by previous Elder Scrolls games, particularly Oblivion and Morrowind. Head to Game Informer for the full video dev diary.
Jared Carr hints at DC Universe Online costume creation
City of Heroes is deservedly famous for its costume creator, which allows for a phenomenal amount of variety in character appearance. Champions Online may take that a step further, with multiple textures available for the same item. Obviously, being able to make your character just the way you want them is a very big deal in hero games. But what about the most mysterious of the superhero MMOs, DC Universe Online?Art director Jared Carr has posted some early details to his blog. Jared explains that 'you can choose from a variety of body sizes, silhouettes and hairstyles', which isn't much of a surprise; however, DCUO will feature something neither CoX nor CO have, which is costume pieces limited by origin. 'If you are a tech-based character (like Cyborg) you will have different costume options than a magic based character (like Dr. Fate).' Jared also mentions that costumes can be altered over time if you wish, a feature CoH didn't have at launch and rapidly adopted.
