Summary
Bethesda’s classicThe Elder Scrolls 5:Skyrimmight not be the most grounded game in the world, but there are a number of small details and features that lend the game a sense of realism and believability. These little details can be found inSkyrim’s massive open-world or within the more condensed cities that litter the game’s map, and stumbling upon them is often a welcome surprise for players.
LikeOblivionbefore it,Skyrimtakes place in a high fantasy setting, complete with dragons, powerful wizards, and honorable warriors. The setting of the game is typical of most traditional fantasy stories, but being a video game means that there are certain aspects that can be better explored and engaged with when compared to other pieces of fantasy media. The feeling of grand-scale adventure is a good example, asSkyrimplayers can traipse across the game’s massive open-world at will, essentially from the start of the game. Players' innate sense of curiosity will typically lead them to the country’s many cities and towns, which are home to guilds, clubs, and taverns that are thick with charm and atmosphere.
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Skyrim’s Realistic Bar Service Helps Create a Sense of Immersion
It’s easy to miss, but visiting the bars andtaverns inSkyrim’s many iconic citiescan give way to a thoughtful and immersive detail. When a player sits down in a tavern, a server will approach them and serve them food and drink. This interaction can be experienced at many of the game’s social hubs, but many will likely miss it due to how much else there is to do in the establishments.
Of course, this small detail might get lost in the sea of spectacular and fantastical sights and events that take place during an averageSkyrimplaythrough, but it is nonetheless charming and impressive. Immersion is key when it comes to open-world RPGs, as it’s important for players to fulfill the fantasy of truly existing in a given fictional world.Skyrimmay have a reputation for being glitchy– a reputation that is well-founded – but small details like this one are a nice reminder of how much attention to detail Bethesda Game Studios paid when crafting the experience.
It can be argued that such small, easy-to-miss details are actually the most important for offering a firm sense of immersion and believability. After all, it’s harder to make dragon-slaying feel immersive and realistic, as it is inherently fantastical and not akin to what anyone experiences in their everyday life. However, sitting down at a bar or restaurant and getting service is something that most people will be familiar with, so offering an in-game parallel to this everyday activity can go a long way toward elevating immersion. It also generally enhancesSkyrim’s well-designed cities, as it makes them feel more rich, lively, and believable.
Skyrim’s taverns have become a symbol of nostalgia and tranquility for many gamers. Many fans of the famous RPG will likely admit that they have fond memories of visiting the various establishments throughout the game, speaking with quest-giving NPCs, and chatting up the barkeeps. The detail of realistic service might go unnoticed by some, but it’s a sign of how much thought went into making the game’s taverns feel peaceful, cozy, and plausible. The character of these taverns hasn’t quite been matched byBethesda’s other games likeStarfieldandFallout 4, suggesting that they have a certain X-factor inSkyrimthat makes them more memorable or special than their equivalents in other games. It’s possible that these minor, frivolous details play a part in crafting this magical feeling, as they contribute to a larger sense of charm.
The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrimis available now on Nintendo Switch, PC, PS3, PS4, PS5, Xbox 360, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
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