Complete guide to ESO Gates of Oblivion: Release dates, gameplay, and pre-order bonuses
Introduction
The Elder Scrolls Online prepares to unleash its most ambitious chapter yet with Gates of Oblivion, a year-long narrative experience that bridges the gap between ESO and the classic The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. As players continue exploring the icy reaches of Western Skyrim from the Greymoor chapter, ZeniMax Online Studios has already begun teasing the fiery dangers awaiting in this Daedric invasion storyline.
This comprehensive guide covers everything revealed so far about the Gates of Oblivion expansion, from staggered release dates to gameplay features and collector’s edition contents. Whether you’re a veteran of Tamriel or considering your first journey into ESO, we’ll help you prepare for the coming storm.
Release Dates and Content Roadmap
Mark your calendars, adventurers – the Gates of Oblivion storyline unfolds through four major content drops throughout 2021, beginning with the Flames of Ambition DLC in March. The centerpiece Blackwood chapter arrives June 1 for PC, Mac, and Stadia players, with PlayStation and Xbox users following on June 8.
This staggered release pattern continues throughout the year’s content:
- Flames of Ambition (March 8/16) – The introductory DLC featuring two new dungeons that set the stage for the coming conflict
- Blackwood (June 1/8) – The major chapter update with 30+ hours of story content in a new zone
- Q3 Dungeon Pack (Date TBD) – Additional dungeon content continuing the narrative
- Q4 Story DLC (Date TBD) – Final story installment concluding the year’s arc
Pro Tip: Console players should note the one-week delay for all content drops. Plan your playtime accordingly if you’re switching between platforms.
Trailers and Reveal Events
The journey to Oblivion began with a cryptic teaser at The Game Awards 2020, showing a Wood Elf’s nightmare visions hinting at Mehrunes Dagon’s return. The full scope became clearer during January’s Global Reveal Event, which delivered:
- A three-minute cinematic trailer showcasing the conflict between Argonians, Dunmer, and cultists
- Behind-the-scenes developer insights into the expansion’s creation
- First gameplay footage of Blackwood’s environments and dungeons
The trailers establish a tone of impending doom, with visual callbacks to Oblivion’s iconic hellscapes. Pay attention to the mysterious book featured in both trailers – it likely holds clues to the expansion’s central mystery.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t overlook the environmental storytelling in these previews. ZeniMax often hides important lore details in background elements.
Gameplay Features and New Content
Blackwood transports players to the borderlands between Cyrodiil and Black Marsh, featuring the return of Leyawiin from TES IV. This culturally diverse zone promises:
- Over 30 hours of main story quests following Mehrunes Dagon’s schemes
- New world events and activities in the Deadlands
- Expanded companion system allowing NPC allies to join your adventures
- Two new dungeons in the Flames of Ambition DLC
The developers have emphasized how this chapter explores “the diverse culture of the Argonians meeting with Imperial ambitions” – suggesting political intrigue alongside supernatural threats. Expect to navigate complex faction dynamics while combating Daedric forces.
Optimization Tip: Veteran players should prepare their builds for fire-resistant gear, as Mehrunes Dagon’s forces favor flame-based attacks.
Pre-Order Editions and Bonuses
ZeniMax offers four purchase options catering to different player needs:
- Blackwood Upgrade – Just the chapter content, ideal for existing players
- Blackwood Collector’s Upgrade – Adds exclusive mount, pet, and cosmetics
- Blackwood Collection – Includes base game and all previous chapters
- Blackwood Collector’s Edition – The complete package with all bonuses
Pre-ordering before March 17, 2021 grants the Nightmare Bear Cub pet and Nagahide Welwa Ravager mount. Collector’s editions include additional rewards like the Battlefield Nightmare Senche mount and Deadlands Gladiator outfit style.
Value Analysis: New players get the most value from the Collection editions, while veterans may prefer the Upgrade options. The Collector’s cosmetics are account-wide, making them worthwhile for alt characters.
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