IfThe Elder Scrollsfranchise is known for one thing, it’s giving the player an unprecedented level of choice. The franchise has almost always given players what they want, whether it’s the malleable, class-less skill tree or the ability to forgo the main storyline without punishment. This theme is also apparent in the combat system, especially when learning a variety of different fighting styles from two-handed combat toSkyrim’s Alteration magic.One of the few elements that might be missing is a sense of morality, especially regarding forbidden magic, andThe Elder Scrolls 6has the opportunity to add forbidden magic as a game-changing mechanic.
Skyrim,in particular, allows players to learn spells from any magic school to suit their play style. The game’s Winterhold College quest line also gives spell casters an insight into the corruptive nature of magic, but the Last Dragonborn seems to be immune from the dangers. In fact, from black soul gems to necromantic spells, the player character can use magic abilities that have been deemed controversial in lore, an element of gameplay that can and should be rectified in the future. Bethesda could take inspiration from in-game lore and forbidden magic mods to create a new layer of moral consequence inThe Elder Scrolls 6.
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Forbidden Magic Is Already Present In Elder Scrolls Lore
Elder Scrolls fans may be unaware that forbidden magic has been part of franchise lore since the beginning. The most notable example is Soul Gems, a crucial material used in enchantments that can be found across most games, especiallySkyrim.Black Soul Gems have infamously been used for necromancy and the forcible capture of humanoid souls. Certain side quests inSkyrim,likeThe Black Star of Azura, allow the Dragonborn to get into the action. Black Soul Gems have been famously used by necromancers, who were instrumental in procuring the first of these Gems and abusing their power to blur the planar boundaries between Mundus and Oblivion.
Both necromancy and blood magic are schools of magic that are also highly controversial and forbidden in some areas of Tamriel. Necromancers with powers similar to thestrong mage Dragonborn Mannimarcocan be encountered throughoutSkyrim,reanimating skeletons and other undead creatures to do their bidding. Blood magic powers the ability to drain the life force of enemies or slay humanoid creatures to increase capacity. Vampires frequently have abilities that use necromancy and blood magic, making them formidable enemies. While players can use spells that incorporate elements of blood magic and necromancy, the forbidden nature of those abilities is not highlighted in the game.
How The Elder Scrolls 6 Can Incorporate Forbidden Magic
One major issue with the current morality system inSkyrimis that there isn’t one. Outside faction-based quest lines with obvious moral leanings, the player themselves isn’t all that affected by the type of magic they use.The Elder Scrolls 6can change this by incorporating a morality-based magic system that requires players to make consistent choices and narrative sacrifices the more they stray down a dark path. For example, given the themes of corruption inherent in Black Soul Gems,The Elder Scrolls 6should have consequences for using Soul Gems, and the player could start to find their worldview warped or their soul in danger if they use dark magic related to necromancy.
Elder Scrollsdeveloper Bethesda could also develop a series of new magical effects that are noticeably sinister compared to typical spells, causing more immersive followers and companions to comment on the brutality. For instance, the “Forbidden Magic Spell Pack” mod series introduces killer bees, mutagenic magic, cataclysms, plagues, shadow magic, and more to theopen world ofSkyrim.These spells go above and beyond in giving the player an arsenal of creative magic while illustrating its forbidden nature. Of course, to make any taboo magic matter, the upcoming game needs to include a dynamic system that tracks the carnage that players create.
The Elder Scrolls 6is currently in development.
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