For some, the idea of additional, sometimes superfluous mechanics bogging down the game is a real drag. For others, those realism elements make the game more challenging and rewarding when they succeed. Luckily, the mode has always been optional, and there is no reason that should change in the upcomingElder Scrolls 6. But what could a new survival mode look like, and what mechanics will it bring back from previous iterations?
Across several previous Bethesda titles, the developers have implemented optional “survival” modes, which added mechanics and increased difficulty as players moved through the world. From thirst and hunger management inFallout 4to thevarying temperatures inSkyrim, instances of added realism have been offered to players who want them in their game. Butthese modes have always been divisive, with some players loving them, and others despising them.
The Pros And Cons Of Survival Gameplay
Creating A Challenge Without Bringing Down The Experience
There are two big cons that many players who hate survival modes will point to when it comes up. The first, as seen inSkyrim, is a lack of healing over time. The game traditionally allows players to heal between fights, but now, resources must always be used to heal injuries. The other big con is limited saving. This was not an issue inSkyrim, but a big one inFallout 4, where players had to rest to save their game. Theoretically, this just made dying a big deal, butin a game that crashed somewhat commonly, it just made the experience more frustrating.
Skyrim Survival Mode Guide: Everything You Need to Know
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Anniversary Edition adds new content such as survival mode. Players need to know how to endure Skyrim’s harsh climes.
On the other hand, there are several survival elements that generally enhance these games. One is making certain items useful. Past the early levels inFalloutandSkyrim, there is little use forfood and water items, since their healing falls off immensely. In these modes, those items always have a purpose. The other factor, which is a pro and a con, is the lack of fast travel. This makes the game take longer, since players have to manually walk across the map, butit also makes certainresources that speed up travelmuch more valuable and worth using.
Which Survival Elements Fit Best In Tamriel?
Planning The Elder Scrolls 6’s Survival Mode
Managing food and water is a staple of most survival games, and it seems likely that any version of the mode inElder Scrolls 6would include them. Getting adequate rest is another mechanic that is probably here to stay, thoughonly being able to save or level up while resting is perhaps a bit too brutalfor some players. Those aspects of the experience could be removed, or possibly made optional.
In addition, a lack of fast travel may be frustrating, but it also gives players a chance to see more of the world and makes traveling feel more dangerous. This could also give the developers a chance to introduce some mechanics around mounts and vehicles, which would feel more important when they are necessary for efficient traveling. As for some of the other common complaints, like the lack of health recovery,it could be interesting for a survival mode in theElder Scrolls 6to include an additional skill tree for things like health regen, cooking, and carrying capacity.
