Following reports that Bethesda was pulling hard copies of The Elder Scrolls Online off retail shelves, the company announced The Elder Scrolls Online: Tamriel Unlimited, a "re-launch" of the MMORPG for the PC and Mac. Slated to arrive on March 17, this version introduces a free-to-play scheme and only requires that players make a one-time purchase of the game. Tamriel Unlimited will also launch on the Xbox One and PlayStation 4 on June 9, just in time for E3 2015.
According to the company, the MMORPG will include the base game as seen on the PC and Mac along with the content additions and updates released since the original launch. Current subscribers and the accounts of those who are no longer playing will be updated to Tamriel Unlimited. Those who are currently paying a subscription will be transferred over to the new ESO Premium plan.
For the free-to-play gamers, Tamriel Unlimited will provide downloadable content for purchase within the in-game Crown Store. However, for ESO Plus members, they will have access to the DLC game packs, receive a stash of in-game "crowns" (the game's premium currency) to spend each month, and get exclusive in-game bonuses.
As an example, for the 30-day membership, the game will cough up 1500 crowns and provide access to all downloadable content. Players will also receive character progression perks including a 10 percent bonus to gold acquisition, crafting research, crafting inspiration gain and experience point gain. Bethesda also offers a 90-day membership and a 180-day membership, both of which provide a larger allotment of crowns.
"Our fans are our biggest inspiration, and we've listened to their feedback on the entertainment experience they want," said Matt Firor, Game Director of The Elder Scrolls Online. "We know that Elder Scrolls fans want choice when it comes to how they play and how they pay, and that is what they will get. We have made numerous changes to the game over the past year and are confident this is a game that Elder Scrolls fans will love to play."
Bethesda added that the console players will need a subscription to Xbox Live Gold or PlayStation Plus in order to play the upcoming MMORPG. PC and Mac gamers who already purchased The Elder Scrolls Online will not be required to purchase the game again.
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