New To Skyrim

Skyrim is lauded by most as one of the best role-playing games of all-time. And I’ve never played it. Yet thanks to another awesome Steam sale, I now own The Elder Scrolls V, costing just $3.99 (it was 90% off). How could I pass up a golden opportunity to at least try one the greatest open-world adventure games ever?

Skyrim originally launched way back in 2011. Through the years, I’ve seen and heard much about this apparently remarkable title from Bethesda, the game’s auspicious developer. Yet it was never on my personal radar because I didn’t own a system that could play it, at least until it was ported to the Nintendo Switch. But even then, I had other games in my queue. I also thought parts of Skyrim might be too dark or graphic for my tastes, which remains to be seen.

The acclaimed open-world action-RPG — and I do enjoy role-playing games — found its way into my sphere thanks to Steam on my new gaming laptop. At a crazy-low $4 (less money than a fancy coffee) I saw a chance to finally see what all the game’s accolades were about. With such media attention and longevity, it must be good, more than mere hype. And as a bonus, the game’s aged graphics engine should be easy for my RTX 3050 to run at the best settings.

Besides previously knowing The Elder Scrolls V was popular and commercially successful, I knew Skyrim has a huge open-world, is an RPG (a Western one rather than a Japanese one), and its style or theme is high-fantasy like The Lord of the Rings. So there is much to like.

Plus, one of Skyrim’s best overall traits is its combined world-design, exploration, and atmosphere, creating exceptional immersion. That kind of stuff is great; it’s one of my favorite things about Breath of the Wild or Xenoblade Chronicles X for example. Added to that are deep lore and attention to detail, which further fuel Skyrim’s vast appeal.

All that’s to say I’m eager to embark on my first journey in the game. I may be one of the few left who hasn’t yet done so. I know there’s a main story, but to be honest it hasn’t drawn my attention. I’m more excited at the idea of somewhat ignoring the story so I can instead simply explore the fantastical realm, interacting with it in various ways. I’m also curious about side-quests and shaping my character into whoever I want. The game’s many discoveries beckon me.

I don’t have lots of time to spare for gaming, let alone for a title as immersive and expansive as Skyrim. But that won’t stop me from trying. I hear there be dragons. I’ll look into it.