Elder Scrolls: Blades steals the show at iPhone XS event
What's the story
Bethesda gave us a glimpse of its brand new game 'The Elder Scrolls: Blades' at the iPhone XS launch yesterday.
This marks the foray of the popular 'Elder Scrolls' franchise in mobile gaming.
Notably, the game was announced in July at E3.
Modeled on the first person RPG mode, popularized in Skyrim, this game brings the console or PC gaming experience to mobiles.
Game story
What is Blades about?
Blades is part of the 'Elder Scrolls' franchise, which has given us all-time favorite games like Skyrim.
Players start as a Blade, a part of an ancient order and an elite warrior in Tamriel.
The character is forced into exile and seeks refuge in his hometown only to find it destroyed.
The game is about the adventures experienced by Blade, while rebuilding the hometown.
Gameplay
How does the gameplay look on iPhone XS?
A console quality gameplay experience requires a fast processor, and the 6 core CPU in the iPhone XS lives up to its expectations.
The resulting experience is a game that 'transports you', as developer Howard said.
The iPhone's OLED display gives delectable visuals, including light reflecting on water, and weapons.
The DOLBY widening stereo makes in-game sounds distinctly clear, especially when players explore forests.
Combat
You are a warrior, but how will you fight?
Bethesda has smartly stuck to basic game controls to make it easy for mobile gaming.
Players can use a defense, melee or magic attack for combat.
They simply have to tap and hold the screen. A circle appears and begins to fill out. If they release the finger as it fills, they can use these moves in combat.
Perfect timing also gives damage bonus.
Movement
The world of 'Elder Scrolls' is all about exploration
The movement on a mobile device is simple. You have to press and hold to move forward and swipe to change directions.
While exploring the world, remember to take in the sights and sounds, as the developers have ensured excellent environment creation.
However, be aware of dangers like goblins, forest-spiders and the undead draugrs. The game teased dragons, so things might get interesting.
Best feature
Flexibility is the name of the game
The best part of Blades is that it is playable in both portrait and landscape mode.
While landscape mode is suitable for a better RPG experience, the portrait mode might be preferred by some players due to its efficiency.
The game, in portrait mode, can be played with only one hand, making gameplay easier, as mobile gamers can literally juggle two things at once.
Information
Other game features
Blades will be a single player game, though there will be an 'Arena' mode where they face off against other online players. Though the game is free on both iOS and Android, expect in-game purchases, which is how the developers will make money.
Get the game
How will you get your hands on Blades?
Blades will release this fall, though no official date has been announced.
If you want to play this graphics heavy game, you should have newer models of smartphones. The game can be pre-ordered on both iOS and Play Store.
Players who can't wait to try it can go for the beta early access on the Bethesda website but you need an official account.