The Elder Scrolls Online launched in 2014 and is still a well-loved game in 2026. However, after many years, some parts of the game are starting to feel outdated, and players have expressed concerns about the cost of yearly content updates. Thankfully, the developers at ZeniMax have been paying attention to this feedback and are planning significant improvements for Elder Scrolls Online in 2026.
On January 7th, Elder Scrolls Online shared its plans for 2026 in a detailed livestream. The biggest news is that ESO is changing how players access new content. Instead of buying an annual pass for new areas and events, all future seasonal content will be free for everyone who plays ESO. They’re also adding Tamriel Tomes, a new reward system similar to a battle pass, to make earning in-game items easier. These changes, along with other improvements, are designed to modernize the game. If you’ve been considering returning to ESO or trying it out, 2026 could be a great time to jump in.
Four Previous Paid DLC Are Coming to Elder Scrolls Online For Free in 2026
Before we discuss the 2026 plans and major updates, I want to share some good news for players who haven’t explored much beyond the original ESO content. With the Season Zero update, several previously purchased content packs are now included in the base game for free. This means you’ll be able to discover new areas and stories as part of your standard Elder Scrolls Online experience!
- Orsinium
- Thieves Guild
- Dark Brotherhood
- Imperial City
In the past, new content for The Elder Scrolls Online required an active ESO Plus membership or cost between $20 and $25 in in-game currency. Now, seasonal updates will add content to the core game at no extra cost. Players who previously needed an annual ESO Plus subscription to access new areas and quests can now choose to subscribe for additional benefits, like an enhanced battle pass. Alternatively, players can enjoy all new content and the standard battle pass for free. This change aligns ESO with many other popular online games that use a “freemium” model instead of relying on monthly or yearly subscriptions.
Elder Scrolls Online 2026 Roadmap Is Packed with Big Changes And New Content
While the plans for 2026 were revealed on January 7th, the first major changes to Elder Scrolls Online will arrive this spring with the Season Zero update. From then on, players can look forward to new seasonal content about every three months. This update also includes significant improvements to the game, like enhanced graphics, adjusted character classes, and features players have been asking for. You can find a detailed look at the future of ESO in 2026 in the roadmap linked below.
Each season of ESO introduces unique content. However, the initial updates planned for 2026 will all share a few common elements:
- Updates to classes & player experience
- New events, systems, & rewards
- New gameplay content, including quests and stories
Major updates are coming to ESO starting with Season Zero in spring 2026. This initial update will introduce several key features, like Tamriel Tomes, a new way to progress in PvP, and adjustable difficulty levels for exploring the world. Season Zero will also kick off improvements to the overall player experience, including a visual update and the ability to freely reset your skills and stats within the game’s interface.
New Elder Scrolls Online Model Includes Class Overhauls, More Frequent QoL Updates & Experimental Features
Throughout 2026, Elder Scrolls Online will receive significant balance changes for each of its classes. These updates will begin with the Dragonknight in the spring, followed by Werewolf and Warden in the summer, and then the Sorcerer in the winter. The development plan outlines three seasons of updates: Season Zero launching in the spring, Season One in late summer/early fall, and Season Two in the winter.
This new approach will allow ZeniMax to update ESO more often and be more adaptable. Previously, planning a full year’s worth of Battle Pass content limited their ability to try new things and respond quickly to what players wanted. Now, with new seasonal content released every three months, the ESO team intends to be more creative and innovative. This includes introducing different types of areas and events, breaking away from the familiar patterns that long-time players have grown accustomed to.
Major updates can often worry players, but ZeniMax appears to be prioritizing the player experience with these changes. Improvements to class visuals and balance, along with user interface enhancements and new features planned for 2026, have been highly requested. The new battle pass system is somewhat uncertain, but it should make it easier to find quests and earn rewards.
What are your thoughts on the new updates coming to Elder Scrolls Online? Share your opinion in the comments below and join the discussion on the ComicBook Forum!
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2026-01-08 00:11