A New Era for Tamriel: The Elder Scrolls Online Update 49 and "Season Zero" Hit the Test Server

Significant changes are coming to The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO) this spring, marking what may be one of the most transformative periods in the MMO's history. Ahead of the official release, Zenimax Online Studios has launched Update 49 and the "Season Zero" preview on the Public Test Server (PTS), allowing players to experience a massive rework of the game's reward systems, classes, and quality-of-life features.

The Shift to Seasons

The headline change is the structural shift away from the traditional Chapter and Content Pass model. Instead, ESO is moving toward a three-month seasonal model, kicking off with "Season Zero." This new approach aims to refresh how content and rewards are delivered, with more content—including past DLC chapters, future zones, and dungeons—becoming free for all players.

Included in this shift is the Tamriel Tomes system, a new battle-pass style progression, and the Gold Coast Bazaar, a new venue for earning returning gear. While the Bazaar is currently available on the PTS for UI testing, the actual inventory items are subject to change.

The Dragonknight Reborn

One of the most immediate gameplay changes available for testing is the comprehensive overhaul of the Dragonknight class. In an effort to make the class feel distinct, Zenimax has reimagined the Dragonknight's skill lineup, adding new visual and sound effects to every single ability and updating animations.

This is just the beginning of a year-long initiative to refresh older classes, with similar overhauls planned for the Werewolf, Warden, and Sorcerer later in the year.

Major Quality of Life Improvements

Update 49 is also packed with highly requested "quality of life" features that promise to smooth out the daily experience for players:

• Fashion Freedom: Players can now hide almost every individual element of their outfit, including gloves, boots, belts, pants, and chest pieces. Additionally, outfit slots are now account-wide.

• Housing Upgrades: Two new homes—Buccaneer Bay and a "former bank vault" in the Night’s Den—are available for preview. Furthermore, all non-Notable tier homes now have increased furnishing slots as standard.

• Inventory Management: Players can now upgrade their bag space directly from the inventory menu.

• Currency Caps: The cap for Transmute Crystals has been tripled.

• Free Respeccing: Skills and attributes can now be reset for free.

Release Timeline

While the PTS is live now with the majority of these changes, some features will roll out gradually. The new Night Market zone is expected to appear on the test server next week, followed by the Tamriel Tomes system the week after.

For the live game, Update 49 is scheduled to launch on Monday, March 9, setting the stage for Season Zero, which officially begins on Monday, April 2. With these updates, Zenimax appears committed to shaking up the ESO formula, offering both veteran and new players a refreshed way to experience Tamriel.