An 19 page PDF profiling The Elder Scrolls Online has allegedly been leaked from the digital issue of Game Informer for June 2012. The leak features screenshots, concept art and tons of info about the just-announced MMO. According to the preview, the game posits the question, “What happens when hundreds or thousands of prophesised heroes all think that they should be emperor?”
The plot involves the Tharn family making a pact with Minnimarco in an attempt to claim the Imperial throne. However, Minnimarco has an alliance with the chief villain Molag Bal - which also allows the player to get resurrected repeatedly.
As far as guilds, players can join any guild in the game, including the Fighter, Mage and Thieves Guild, and PCs will be able to learn more skills than ever before in the series. The level cap, it's estimated, will take roughly 120 hours to achieve.
Combat will rely on stamina management, though "skillful" fighting increases a player's finesse meter. When the meter is filled, players can execute an "ultimate attack", which will unlock more valuable items in the loot drop. Finesse can be done by combining attacks with other players - but be warned, enemies can do the same thing.
Along with the guilds are three factions. The "Ebonheart Pact" are comprised of the Nords, Dunmer and Argonians, while the "Aldmeri Dominion" features the Altmer, Bosmer and Khajit, while the Bretons, Redguard and Orcs make up the Daggerfall Covenant.
The game will not represent the whole of Tamriel, however. While the Khajiit homeland Elsweyr and Altmer realm Summerser Isle are included, others will be added as expansions later.
The Elder Scrolls Online is due to be released on PC and Mac OS in 2013.
