The Elder Scrolls Online Drops Subscription Requirement, Console Release Date Announced

The announcement that popped up today on The Elder Scrolls Online’s official website reveals not only that the console versions of the titles will be coming out on June 9, but also that the mandatory subscription fee for the title will be dropped. In other words, since as of March 17, the only requirement to play the title (rebranded as The Elder Scrolls Online: Tamriel Unlimited) will be a paid copy. Like most MMOs without a mandatory subscription fee, The Elder Scrolls Online: Tamriel Unlimited will offer the ability to purchase optional content, and an optional monthly subscription that will grant in-game benefits.

You can take a look at the announcement trailer:

And read a slightly more detailed explanation from ZeniMax Online:

For the first time in history, you’ll be able to explore the legendary world of Tamriel with your friends on console. We’re excited to announce that The Elder Scrolls® Online will be coming to PlayStation 4 and Xbox One worldwide on June 9, 2015 as The Elder Scrolls® Online: Tamriel Unlimitedâ„¢! In the latest and biggest Elder Scrolls game ever made, you can choose to adventure alone, quest with friends, or join an army of hundreds in epic player vs. player battles as you explore and discover the secrets of a persistent Tamriel. And with Tamriel Unlimited, coming to console on June 9th and PC/Mac on March 17th, 2015, you will no longer be required to pay a monthly game subscription to play ESO.

The Elder Scrolls Online: Tamriel Unlimited includes all the great gameplay from the original PC/Mac game, plus all the updates and content additions, including the exciting new Justice and Champion systems. If you’ve ever played ESO, you’ll be invited to return to the game and experience everything new in the world without game subscription fees. If you’re new to ESO, you’ll make a one-time purchase of the game and then continue playing without restrictions for as long as you like.

In Tamriel Unlimited, you’ll be able to purchase optional downloadable content, and the new in-game Crown Store will offer convenience and customization items. If you choose, you can pay a single monthly charge for our premium membership, ESO Plusâ„¢, to receive monthly in-game benefits and a monthly allotment of crowns to spend in the store. Our team remains committed to providing a great experience to all players, and you can expect continued, regular updates free of charge in addition to our new store offerings. You can read the full press release for more details.

I genuinely doubt anyone will actually be surprised by this announcement. What now remains to be seen is how ZeniMax will handle optional purchases and the new subscription fee’s benefits, as the announcement only speaks of them in the vaguest of terms.