Elden Ring vs The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Elden Ring is a challenging open-world action RPG that brings FromSoftware’s punishing combat into a vast, explorable land conceived with George R. R. Martin. It rewards curiosity and mastery with deep build variety and cryptic, atmospheric storytelling.
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is an action-packed, open-world fantasy role-playing game. Players take on the role of the Dragonborn, a legendary hero with the power to absorb the souls of dragons and use their abilities. The game features a massive open world to explore, complete with a rich history, politics, and mythology.
Around $59.99; Shadow of the Erdtree expansion sold separately.
- Massive, rewarding open world
- Incredible boss design
- Huge build freedom
- High replay value
- Immersive open-world gameplay
- Rich storyline with complex characters
- Highly customizable characters
- Dynamic combat system
- Very difficult, steep learning curve
- Little hand-holding
- Performance issues at launch on some platforms
- Steep learning curve
- Some quests can be repetitive
- Graphics may appear dated
What reviewers say
Elden Ring Reviews
4.0 (2)Love it
Sunk way too many hours into Elden Ring. Massive, rewarding open world. No real complaints. Would recommend.
Fun with caveats
Picked up Elden Ring recently. Upside: high replay value. Downside: very difficult, steep learning curve.
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Reviews
4.0 (2)Love it
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim has been my go-to lately. Great atmosphere and exploration. No real complaints. Would recommend.
Good but flawed
Picked up The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim recently. Upside: enormous freedom. Downside: bugs without mods.
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to Elden Ring
View all →
A vast open-world action RPG with a acclaimed story and monster hunting.
Alternatives to The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
View all →
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataElden Ring offers a newer, more challenging open‑world experience with modern graphics, while Skyrim provides a classic, slightly easier RPG with a rich story.
Key differences
- •Platform coverage: Elden Ring runs on current‑gen consoles and PC; Skyrim is limited to older PS3/Xbox 360 and PC.
- •Difficulty curve: Elden Ring is notably harder with minimal hand‑holding; Skyrim’s learning curve is steep but more forgiving.
- •Graphics & performance: Elden Ring has modern visuals; Skyrim’s graphics are dated and may feel outdated.
- •Release era: Elden Ring (2022) includes recent design philosophies; Skyrim (2011) reflects older RPG conventions.
Pricing & value
Both are priced around $59.99; expansions for Elden Ring sold separately, Skyrim has no listed extra cost.
Platform availability
Elden Ring supports PC, PlayStation, and Xbox (current gen); Skyrim only on PS3, Xbox 360, and PC.
Gameplay & fun factor
Elden Ring offers demanding combat, deep build variety, and massive hidden dungeons, praised for rewarding exploration.
Multiplayer / co‑op
Both are single‑player only; no multiplayer features listed.
Content & replayability
Elden Ring’s open world, hidden dungeons, and huge build freedom give high replay value; Skyrim is replayable but older.
Difficulty & accessibility
Skyrim has a steep learning curve but is less punishing than Elden Ring’s very difficult combat.
Graphics & performance
Elden Ring features modern graphics; Skyrim’s visuals are dated and may not meet current expectations.
Choose Elden Ring if…
Players who want cutting‑edge graphics, deep combat, and high replay value on modern consoles.
Choose The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim if…
Players who prefer a classic RPG with a strong story and a gentler difficulty on older hardware.
Common questions
Is Elden Ring more expensive because of expansions?
Base game price is around $59.99; the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion is sold separately.
Can I play either game on a current‑gen console?
Elden Ring runs on current‑gen PlayStation and Xbox; Skyrim is only listed for PS3, Xbox 360, and PC.
Which game is harder for a new player?
Elden Ring is described as very difficult with little hand‑holding, whereas Skyrim’s steep learning curve is less punishing.