Shaun M Jooste 
The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO) has just released its highly anticipated ESO Update 44 for PC and Mac players, with Xbox and PlayStation releases planned for November 13. This free base-game update brings an impressive array of features, enhancements, and gameplay changes to keep fans engaged in Tamriel’s ever-evolving world. From major PvP updates to fresh companions, there’s something for everyone in this latest update.
Battlegrounds ESO Update 44: Fresh Challenges Await PvP Players
The Battlegrounds mode, a core PvP feature in ESO since its introduction in the 2017 Morrowind chapter, has received a significant overhaul with ESO Update 44. The mode now offers two match options—4v4 and 8v8—replacing the original 4v4v4 format to streamline gameplay and make matches more competitive. Seven new maps have been introduced, giving players a variety of battlegrounds to explore and master. Additionally, the 4v4 format now includes a dedicated leaderboard, allowing players to track their progress and compare their skills with others in this adrenaline-fueled PvP experience.
Players can dive right into these updated matches with ESO Update 44 using the Activity Finder and choose between the two new match sizes. The revamped Battlegrounds promise more balanced, high-energy action, making them a must-try for both seasoned and new PvP players.
New Companions: Tanlorin and Zerith-var Join the Adventure
For players who prefer PvE content or want extra support in their journeys, Update 44 introduces two new Companions: Tanlorin and Zerith-var. Tanlorin, a High Elf with a mix of Dragonknight and Soul Magic abilities, is the first companion of his kind in ESO, combining powerful offensive and defensive skills. Zerith-var, a Khajiit Necromancer with a dark past, brings his own unique abilities and backstory, adding a new layer of complexity to the game’s storytelling.
Both companions come with exclusive questlines and passive abilities, giving players a chance to unlock new powers and delve deeper into their narratives. These companions are accessible through the in-game Crown Store, free for ESO Plus members or available for purchase with crowns for non-members. Once unlocked, players can find Tanlorin outside Vulkhel Guard in Auridon and Zerith-var near Moonmont in Reaper’s March.
Expanded Scribing System: Banner Bearer Grimoire and New Skill Styles
For those drawn to ESO’s intricate crafting systems, ESO Update 44 expands the Scribing System introduced in the Gold Road chapter. The latest addition is the Banner Bearer Grimoire, part of the Support Skill Line, which allows players to equip a banner on their backs that buffs their allies based on their chosen Focus. This new item is not just a powerful support tool but also adds a fresh aesthetic element to character customization.
The update also includes 14 new script options applicable to existing Grimoires and introduces four new Skill Styles, including the molten Puncture and wildburn Force Shock. To begin exploring these new scribing options, players need access to the Gold Road chapter and can visit Chronicler Firandil within the Scholarium for further instruction.
Golden Pursuits: A New Reward System
ESO Update 44 introduces Golden Pursuits, a reward campaign designed to encourage exploration and quest completion across Tamriel. The campaign will officially launch in mid-November, with players able to earn in-game collectables, currencies, and items by achieving various milestones. Specific details on the types of rewards and the structure of each campaign are expected to be revealed soon, so players are advised to stay tuned for announcements.
Imperial City Overhaul: New Rewards in a War-Torn City
The iconic Imperial City, a PvPvE zone where players face off against Daedric forces and each other, has also received notable changes. The update transforms the experience by converting Imperial Vaults into vendors, allowing players to exchange Imperial City keys and fragments for rewards. Vendors across the city now offer upgraded items, adding new incentives for players to explore the sewers and streets. These ESO Update 44 improvements aim to make the Imperial City a more rewarding and exciting area for adventurers.
Additional Features and Quality-of-Life Improvements
Alongside these major content updates, ESO Update 44 also delivers various quality-of-life improvements that enhance the game’s functionality and player experience. These include:
- Furnishing Material Increase: Regular harvesting nodes now yield more furnishing base materials, providing builders and decorators more resources for crafting.
- HDR Support for PC: For those playing on compatible devices, HDR support introduces more vivid graphics, including adjustable brightness and contrast for optimal visuals.
- Master Writs Quest Pips: Quest markers and objective tracking have been added for Master Writs, making these challenging tasks easier to follow and complete.
- PvP Perks for ESO Plus Members: Members now receive a 10% boost to Alliance Points and PvP Skill Line ranks, as well as extra Tel Var Stones from monster kills, adding more value for PvP players.
These updates not only add variety but also improve accessibility and enhance the game’s visual appeal for PC players.
Prepare for New Adventures in Tamriel
With a combination of new PvP content, companions, crafting options, and reward systems, ESO Update 44 enriches the game world in significant ways. Whether you’re looking to test your skills in revamped Battlegrounds, recruit powerful new allies, or explore fresh narrative-driven challenges, this update offers plenty for players of all styles.
ESO fans can expect more exciting announcements soon, as the Golden Pursuits campaign and additional ESO Update 44 items are set to roll out in November. PC/Mac players can dive into the new content now, with console players joining the adventure on November 13. So, are you ready to rejoin the Battlegrounds, recruit new allies, or explore Tamriel’s ever-expanding world? Log in today and start your adventure!
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