The Elder Scrolls community is working on an awesome remake of the RPG series’ very first game

by

For quite some time, Bethesda has granted fans the opportunity to download the initial installments of The Elder Scrolls series at no cost. Both “The Elder Scrolls: Arena” and “The Elder Scrolls Adventures: Daggerfall” can be obtained for free from the developer’s official website.

Yet, for Daggerfall, enthusiasts unitedly developed Daggerfall Unity – a spectacular, contemporary redesign of the game featuring high-definition graphics, updated controls, mod compatibility, and numerous other enhancements. Now, 31 years following its initial release, supporters are striving to resurrect the franchise’s inaugural installment, The Elder Scrolls: Arena, with the same spirit.

The Elder Scrolls: Arena Remake in the works 

Working on a project called “OpenTESArena,” enthusiasts are developing a “work-in-progress, modern open-source game engine.” This engine aims to offer players an updated version of the original game from the series, running smoothly on current hardware and featuring contemporary control options.

In their GitHub description, the team shared that they aim to recreate every detail of the initial game using a method called ‘clean-room development,’ during which they will also introduce improvements for user convenience.

As I write this, the fan-made remake of Arena is still at a nascent stage in its development. By incorporating “jolt physics” into the open-source game engine, they’ve successfully established a movement system that enables players to traverse chasms, jump, and even swim.

In the latest version of the game’s engine, adversaries can now be defeated although their artificial intelligence is yet to be fully functional. Players are able to gather items and utilize keys on doors. Additionally, characters with identifiable names can be found and eliminated, however, the crime-related mechanics have not been added yet.

Although Skyrim and Oblivion Remastered have garnered immense popularity in The Elder Scrolls series, it’s worth noting that many contemporary gamers might not have experienced Arena, the initial game in the RPG series. Interestingly, despite a fan-made remake, this relatively forgotten entry in the remarkable franchise may not resonate with most current gamers. However, the effort by fans to modernize the gameplay for Arena is a significant stride towards preserving its legacy and ensuring that future generations can still enjoy this foundational piece of the series.

To be honest, Arena isn’t my favorite game series – during an interview with its creator Ted Peterson on our podcast, I even shared that opinion with him – but I do hold it in high regard. Many of the core aspects found in today’s games can be traced back to the original title, such as leveling up skills through activities, intricate lore books, and a high degree of player autonomy.

It’s clear that OpenTESArena won’t be ready for gameplay soon, but backing such projects is crucial. Although Bethesda offers the original Arena for free, using DosBox isn’t optimal, and these initiatives are what ensure games remain relevant for new generations for extended periods.

To delve deeper into Elder Scrolls lore, explore the creation process behind the mysterious multiplayer offshoot Shadowkey, and uncover the harrowing 36-hour development experience that left all team members in a state of despair.

Read More

2025-05-26 13:40