In 2021, the rumors of an Elder Scrolls TV show spread like wildfire, as the idea that The Elder Scrolls universe could soon be represented through a live action adaption was an exciting for many. However, there are also questions of its relevance to The Elder Scrolls 6.
The Elder Scrolls 6 is still a long ways away, with fans eagerly awaiting the return of the mainline series. Very little is known of what its plot will be and where it will take place. However, this may end up being a good thing, as an Elder Scrolls TV show would be the perfect way to lead into The Elder Scrolls 6 and further hype it up.
Introducing The Elder Scrolls 6
As of now, there is little to nothing known about the rumored Elder Scrolls TV show. It's unclear if it would take place during the setting of a game like The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim or be its own independent tale. For all fans know, it may not even exist. If it does happen, though, it will be interesting to see how certain elements from The Elder Scrolls universe are interpreted. For example, seeing an Argonian or Khajiit would certainly draw some eyes, especially considering the amount of creative freedom there is to be had with the various types of their species. One of the most interesting plot points this hypothetical show could take on would be the events just before The Elder Scrolls 6.
Prequel shows for video games are nothing new. For example, Final Fantasy 15 had a prequel anime that set up the character's backstories as well as their personalities. For a franchise incredibly focused on storytelling, an Elder Scrolls TV show could do the same. It could detail the events just before the main conflict of the game, while also giving a rough idea of what the state of the world is. The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim showed players that the world was in a near post-apocalyptic state, so players are interested to know how certain issues have progressed. After all, players are eager to know what the Thalmor are up to in The Elder Scrolls 6.
An Elder Scrolls TV show would also be a great way to build up hype as well. After all, the most recent mainline installment to the franchise was over a decade ago. This TV show would essentially be the prelude to returning to that. If the show doesn't take place too far into the distant future, players could even see the return of some relevant characters, such as General Tullius. It would also give fans confirmation of where The Elder Scrolls 6 will take place, which fans have been begging to know since the release of Elder Scrolls 6's teaser trailer back in 2019.
Having characters from the TV show even reappear in the game would serve as a fun nod players could appreciate as well. Cyberpunk 2077 did this with its TV show, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, as various items that once belonged to characters from the TV show could be found throughout the map. The Elder Scrolls is known to have characters that live up to hundreds of years, meaning they could easily reappear regardless of the time period the show takes place in. It would greatly add to the lore of The Elder Scrolls, while also giving attentive fans something to look toward.
While this show likely won't happen for a while if it does indeed exist, it will be interesting to see how it applies to the rest of The Elder Scrolls as a whole. After all, the franchise is known for its complex and connecting stories, and even a show about the lore of The Elder Scrolls' Dwemer would satisfy most fans.
The Elder Scrolls 6 is in development.