The Elder Scrolls games are renowned for their rich worlds filled with hundreds of distinct NPCs, each adding unique flavor to the lands of Tamriel. While many NPCs serve as merchants, quest-givers, or simply flesh out the environment, it’s the characters tied to the main storyline that play a pivotal role in engaging players. For instance, in Oblivion, Martin Septim, among others, provides a deep emotional connection as he journeys and evolves alongside the Hero of Kvatch, creating an immersive and emotionally charged experience. On the other hand, Skyrim, despite having a broader cast, falls short in building these connections, as its characters often remain neutral or distant from the Dragonborn. As we look ahead to The Elder Scrolls 6, incorporating compelling characters like Martin is crucial to fostering player investment in the story.
Among the standout NPCs in Oblivion’s narrative are Martin Septim, Baurus, Jauffre, and Mankar Camoran, each playing roles as either allies or adversaries. Martin’s relationship with the Hero of Kvatch, in particular, is significant as they navigate their newfound roles, creating a narrative filled with mutual respect and camaraderie. This dynamic makes Martin’s eventual fate all the more poignant, anchoring players emotionally to the storyline.
In contrast, Skyrim’s main story struggles to establish such depth. While it features characters like the Blades, Delphine, and Esbern who assist the Dragonborn, their alliances are often conditional and lack the warmth of friendship. The closest semblance of camaraderie is seen with Paarthurnax, yet even that is limited by the players’ choices. This lack of emotional depth makes Skyrim’s main quest feel more like a task to complete rather than a journey fueled by genuine connections.
For The Elder Scrolls 6 to truly captivate players, it will need to introduce a character who serves as a strong emotional anchor within the main storyline. The dissatisfaction with Skyrim’s NPCs arises from their tendency to treat the Dragonborn as a mere tool for achieving their own objectives. Characters should be crafted to build meaningful relationships that evolve, similar to those seen in Oblivion, where conflict stems from narrative stakes rather than forced interactions. This emotional foundation is what compels players to become deeply engaged with the storyline, seeing the journey through to its end with genuine interest in the characters’ fates.
