Massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs) sharing characteristics with The Elder Scrolls Online offer players expansive virtual worlds to explore, develop characters, and engage in cooperative or competitive activities. These titles typically feature persistent environments, allowing progress to be saved and continued across multiple sessions. Examples include games that emphasize extensive lore, intricate crafting systems, player-driven economies, and large-scale player versus player (PvP) combat.
The significance of these experiences lies in their capacity to provide immersive social interactions and long-term engagement. The combination of character progression, challenging content, and a dynamic community fosters a sense of accomplishment and belonging. Historically, the genre has evolved from text-based MUDs to graphically rich environments, with The Elder Scrolls Online contributing to the trend of action-oriented combat within a sprawling open world.