The Best Elder Scrolls Online Character Class

What is the best Elder Scrolls Online Character Class? As we eagerly await the official release of ESO, gamers are already contemplating what type of character to make and are asking this all important question. From what we can tell, the Elder Scrolls Online is going to be brilliant, and the stunning gameplay and innovative leveling system will appeal to both fans of MMORPGs and the Elder Scrolls alike, so let’s take a closer look at what we know regarding the different character classes to see if we can figure out which one is best.

{Be sure to check out our related article: The Best Elder Scrolls Online Race}

What Is The Best Elder Scrolls Online Character Class?

This question is one that cannot be definitively answered, because there really isn’t a “best” character class — especially considering that players won’t be restricted in ESO from using weapons and armor from other classes and gaining abilities from a wide-open Skill Tree. This freedom of development is different from other MMORPGs, and truly allows a player to craft a unique character.

Class selection is really just a starting point, so therefore one class really isn’t better than another. This being said, how can a gamer decide which class to chose? Two factors should be considered:

1. The best Elder Scrolls Online character class depends on a particular gamer’s playing style. For instance, are you the type of player that likes to rush headlong into battle, dealing damage at close range? Or do you prefer ranged attacks, casting spells and the like? Certain character classes will fit with your playing style better than others.
2. The best Elder Scrolls Online character class depends on the type of character your group needs. For example, do your fellow players need a “tank,” someone to soak up damage and draw attacks to protect weaker characters? Or does your group need a supporting character with healing or stealth abilities? The best groups are balanced, and consist of different classes that work together well, so what does your group need?

The Elder Scrolls Online Character Classes

As of the date of this article, information on character classes is still limited and won’t be finalized until the Beta is concluded and the final game released. So far, there have been five ESO classes revealed:

• Dragon Knight
• Nightblade
• Sorcerer
• Templar
• Warden (presumably will be removed once the final game is released)

Each class has certain abilities, and will help set the general direction of future development. Here then is a basic overview:

[table caption=”Elder Scrolls Online Character Classes” width=”500″ colwidth=”20|20|20″ colalign=”left|left|left|left|left”]
Class,Type,Specialization
Dragon Knight,Fighter, Combat
Nightblade, Rogue, Stealth

Sorcerer, Mage, Offensive magic

Templar, Fighter, Defensive magic

Warden, Healer, Defensive magic

[/table]

A Closer Look At The Classes

As mentioned previously, complete information on the Elder Scrolls Online character classes won’t be available until the game is officially released. The following information is likely to change once we get closer to the game’s release date.

Dragon Knight

Dragon Knights are impressive fighters capable of dealing heavy damage. Proficient at close and ranged attacks, Dragon Knights can also cast offensive, fire-based spells capable of damaging, stunning, or controlling enemies. Dragon Knights can be developed into awesome damage dealers and tanks that will take the blunt of enemy attacks.

Nightblade

Nightblades rely on both stealth and magic in combat. A Nightblade’s greatest attacks are launched from the shadows — sneak attacks from behind to deliver the most damage. However, Nightblades may be developed into a more traditional fighter role with the use of heavy armor and weapons. To learn more the Nightblade please read our helpful article Playing A Nightblade In The Elder Scrolls Online.

Sorcerer

Sorcerers rely on Magicka to cast powerful spells. Offensive magic is a specialty, however Sorcerers have the ability to cast defensive magic as well to help protect against damage. Three different magic Skill Trees are available for sorcerers:

• Daedric Summoning — Allows for summoned Daedra to assist in battle.
• Dark Magic — Spells capable of damaging and controlling enemies.
• Storm Calling — Lightning-based spells capable of damaging and stunning enemies.

Templar

Templars are a fighter class with the ability to cast special sun and light-based magical attacks against enemies. Templars may be developed into traditional fighters, but their true strength comes from their ability to heal and cast powerful defensive spells. This defensive magic makes Templars excellent support characters who still have the ability to dish out damaging attacks.

Wardens

Wardens will presumably be removed from the game once the Elder Scrolls Online is officially released. Apparently the game developers believed that ESO should have less classes to allow for more player freedom in developing unique characters. Perhaps they were too similar to Templars, for both classes specialized in supportive, healing magic…

Final Notes

All in all, the best Elder Scrolls Online character class comes down to personal preference. Gamers will have the most fun creating and developing a character that matches their unique playing style. The needs of the group shouldn’t be overlooked though when selecting a class. Certain classes will work together well, and this harmony builds balance and strength. Remember: character selection is a starting point only. ESO is unique, allowing players the ultimate freedom to develop characters in the direction they chose. In the end, the best Elder Scrolls Online character is the one that you create and develop.

So what do you think? What is the best Elder Scrolls Online character class for your unique playing style and your group? Let us know your opinion.

For more information on the Elder Scrolls Online be sure to check out the official ESO website.