Playing ESO again and having a good time. Finally, I'm able to play on EU server with good ping, and I can enjoy combat as it was meant to be enjoyed. On top, they've fixed the weird issues with bows that I used to have, so that there are really no glitches left that I can detect.
The story remains very strong. It's truly mindboggling how much story content there is in this game, which is why you really need to stay focused when playing. If not, you'll be missing out on the heart of the game.
It can be quite overwhelming, as every single quest has meaty core dialogue - and a LOT of optional dialogue as well. So, if you're not one inclined to listen or read - you'll be bored and wanting to skip it all.
The writing is second only to Secret World for an MMO, and I think it's much stronger than SWtOR - in that I can actually take it seriously.
The quests are nearly all interesting with a lot of cool little cutscenes and meaningful plots. The entire game feels like one big main quest in terms of writing and relevance.
I love the way they handle CnC with phasing, and how your "persuasion" and "intimidate" skills are actually useful here. I think it's the first MMO I've played where my choices leave an actual mark on both myself and the world. I know other games have attempted something like this, but I always felt it was very gimmicky. Not so, here.
Of course, it's still an MMO - and you won't get a singleplayer "I'm the center of the world" experience on the same level, but it's admirable in this way.
I still love the atmosphere and the world. Very true to TES and there are countless books, notes, journals and so on to find.
I've yet to get into grouping, but I hear they've done a lot of work to ensure minimal phasing issues. But I've convinced my brother to play - and we have a common friend we need to "persuade" as well, but I'm hopeful. As such, I'll be able to make a reasonable judgement call on this aspect of the game. That said, we're very good at sticking to the same paths and we'll likely not experience issues here, as we never play those characters when we're not together. That's what alts are for
As for the combat system, now that it works as it should, it's very good. It's fast and responsive and in some ways it's better than Skyrim. That's because you have more tools and toys - and you can switch weapon on-the-fly. Much better than GW2 for this, as there's no delay anymore. The first person implementation is not QUITE as good as Skyrim, but definitely better than every other MMO out there. Great for immersion.
I have to say I think it's the best MMO out there right now. But it will never satisfy people who just want to jump in and kill things or collect shiny loot. It takes an effort to get something out of it, and it's not a game for short stints. At least, not when you're leveling up.
Mods in DA:O are a huge pain. But I'm seriously looking forward to diving back into it…DA:O is such a solid, robust game. I've been dabbling in Crusader Kings II since last night and falling for it again as well. But the ambient noise in my background right now is Skyrim and the Take Notes mod…it's such a good role-playing and writing exercise.
