The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim

 Xbox 360
User Score
8.6

Generally favorable reviews- based on 4435 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3,744 out of 4435
  2. Mixed: 344 out of 4435
  3. Negative: 347 out of 4435
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  1. leshadow
    Nov 12, 2011
    10
    Skyrim is the best game I have ever played, easily. The fact that I have played 6 hours and only advanced the main quest slightly just underlines how much there is to do in this game. I found myself getting lost in ancient forts, getting ambushed by bandits and reading a dead woman's love letter - in the space of an hour. The sheer number of ways to play, and the changing scenarios youSkyrim is the best game I have ever played, easily. The fact that I have played 6 hours and only advanced the main quest slightly just underlines how much there is to do in this game. I found myself getting lost in ancient forts, getting ambushed by bandits and reading a dead woman's love letter - in the space of an hour. The sheer number of ways to play, and the changing scenarios you will face, means no playthrough is ever remotely similar. For example, I became adept at stealing - only to be hunted down by a group of hired thugs with a handwritten contract for my head. The organic nature of the game means it really is a whole new world to lose yourself in for days on end.

    This game will take over your life - and you will love every second.    … Expand
  2. KaoticBlade12
    Nov 12, 2011
    10
    This game couldn't be any better. I first came across the elder scrolls series when a friend showed oblivion to me and let me borrow it. I was hooked as soon as i put in the disc. Ive spent hundreds of hours playing oblivion, and this time around, skyrim is no different, possibly even better. Improved graphics, gameplay, menus, and more show the polish of this game and how finished it is.This game couldn't be any better. I first came across the elder scrolls series when a friend showed oblivion to me and let me borrow it. I was hooked as soon as i put in the disc. Ive spent hundreds of hours playing oblivion, and this time around, skyrim is no different, possibly even better. Improved graphics, gameplay, menus, and more show the polish of this game and how finished it is. It definitly brings more to the table than annual game releases such as Call of Duty, etc, making this game also worth your dollar, as it gives you 300+ hours of fun, and you actually have time to play it before the next game in the series comes out. In that respect, I enjoy skyrim and i definitly reccomend this game to anyone who even slightly likes rpgs.… Expand
  3. smith357
    Nov 13, 2011
    10
    Incrível, são tantas coisas e opções que podem ser feitas e a liberdade que o jogo lhe oferece! O combate, crafting e sistema de quests esta tudo perfeito!
  4. CrazyJoe28
    Nov 15, 2011
    10
    This is literally the best game I have ever had the pleasure to play. I've made several different characters and spent well over 50 hours in the game yet I still haven't explored even 20% of what this game has to offer. It's truly a labor of love that shouldn't be missed. If there's only one game you can pick up this season it has to be TES 5 Skyrim, GOTY for sure!
  5. zgillet
    Nov 15, 2011
    10
    This game is the very definition of Masterpiece. It almost is more of a second world than a game. There have been very few glitches in my play time, which was a huge concern.

    Stop reading and go play this game.
  6. Janax
    Nov 15, 2011
    10
    Amazing game. Follow the main quest, or don't. Be a law abiding citizen, or don't. So much to do, the choices are nearly endless. It's not often I don't have a bit of buyers remorse paying full retail release day prices, but that's never the case with a Elder Scrolls game. Skyrim continues that trend.
  7. SkoomaAddict
    Nov 15, 2011
    10
    This is easily the most fun I have had playing a game in a very long time. I have yet to encounter a dragon because I left the main quest rather early. Nevertheless, the scenery is beautiful, the encounters engaging and the slow motion for a critical kill is just amazing.
  8. TrueCrazyHero
    Nov 15, 2011
    10
    In a nutshell The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is an AMAZING game, the world is huge and full of things to keep you occupied, the combat is grate and with loads of weapons to find and spells to master, there is a lot to do in this game. The game starts as you as a prisoner who is about to face a execution for been suspected as a rebel, well to cut a long story short a Dragon comes and tearsIn a nutshell The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is an AMAZING game, the world is huge and full of things to keep you occupied, the combat is grate and with loads of weapons to find and spells to master, there is a lot to do in this game. The game starts as you as a prisoner who is about to face a execution for been suspected as a rebel, well to cut a long story short a Dragon comes and tears the town apart you find out that you Dragonborn. I don't what to spoil the story for you so i'll stop there. There are side-quest and other objectives to do and you can join the many diffident gilds to join, so if the main-quest is getting boring for you there still hundreds of hours of gameplay here. Skyrim also has a Minecraft style way of making new armor and weapons, you get a pick-axe find some ore or a animal, dig it up or kill it , melt it down and craft the armor you want out if it. Since this is a RPG there is a leveling up system, in this game you gain skill from preforming tasks e.g. Fighting with diffident weapons, Making potions, Using magic, Picking locks .etc. Each task is connected to a skill e.g. One-Handed, Destruction, Pick locking .etc. After you do so many tasks you Level Up, this is where you can Pick a Perk. These Perks can help you with you combat, magic or to make people like you. There are lots of places to explore in Skyrim, you can find anything from a steam-punk style Dungeon or a traditional cave, On your explorations you will run in to the most coolest ting about this game DRAGONS, i mean think about it, just waling around and suddenly a dragon come screaming over you and lands and lets out a all mighty roar, once you hear that you know your in for a fight. Once you killed the dragon you can absorb its soil that can be used to unlock shouts. Shouts are special spells that don't drain you magic bar but still take time to recharge, shouts consists of 3 words, words can be given in a quest or found for just wondering the world, that start of weak but once you can master it with all 3 words you are unstoppable. there are some minor bad points about the game, there are some rather weird bugs and sometimes the combat can feel a bit flimsy, but with the bad points aside this is still the best game i have played in 2011. if you haven already gone out and got the game then you should its worth the money and i know it came out on the same week as that big shooter game but that's no reason to give this one a miss. and if you not into this kind of game or not a fan of the other games in the series then give it a go if you don't like it trade in and go back to games you like playing. To me its AWESOME lots to do and dragons to kill. Prefect Score.… Expand
  9. midnightundead
    Nov 15, 2011
    10
    Great Game, despite what people say who must not realize that Elder Scrolls came before fallout. Great Campaign, nice art work, interesting new design for almost all of the items, also the new alchemy, and other abilities like smiting are a nice touch. I already put quite a good amount of hours into the game and I can see myself putting another hundred or so hours at least per character inGreat Game, despite what people say who must not realize that Elder Scrolls came before fallout. Great Campaign, nice art work, interesting new design for almost all of the items, also the new alchemy, and other abilities like smiting are a nice touch. I already put quite a good amount of hours into the game and I can see myself putting another hundred or so hours at least per character in this game.… Expand
  10. deathxmongerx
    Nov 15, 2011
    10
    Skyrim lives up to my expectations, and competes with Morrowind, my favorite elder scroll game. The story is set in an extremely immersed world that really feels like it is alive and the story itself is beautiful. There are a few glitches in the game, but it is not a problem that diminishes one's experience in Skyrim. The combat system works great, but there can be annoyances when gettingSkyrim lives up to my expectations, and competes with Morrowind, my favorite elder scroll game. The story is set in an extremely immersed world that really feels like it is alive and the story itself is beautiful. There are a few glitches in the game, but it is not a problem that diminishes one's experience in Skyrim. The combat system works great, but there can be annoyances when getting to the items, magic, map, and skill menu only because sometimes the game does not register where you want to go. All you have to do is exit and re-enter, which is not a problem during combat because the game pauses itself. The textures when observed up close do not have the utterly beautiful quality some were hoping for, but I am not distraught because that would increase load times and the world is beautiful. The NPCs in Skyrim actually feel like they are people rather than simple programs waiting to be spoken to. The endless amounts of side quests and hidden goodies in the game are endless offering a truly unlimited amount of replay-ability. The perk tree is reminiscent of Fallout 3, which is great, because it gives you the desire to create different characters and specialize in different areas at each play through of the game. I recommend this to any fan of the Elder Scrolls series, rpg fan, or someone who just loves a great story in a game. The waring I give to you is that once you start you will constantly be picking up the controller attempting to find new powers and go on quests to defeat the dragons that have reappeared in Skyrim.… Expand
  11. atomickronic420
    Nov 16, 2011
    10
    This game was....err I mean is one of the single best looking games to date! I mean it is 10x's better then Oblivion in way of looks. Plus I feel they didn't under-do or over-do the dragon element, the engagements between dragons is common but not to the point where it becomes tedious. I also really like how Bethesda upped the fickleness of the lock picking... much improved to that ofThis game was....err I mean is one of the single best looking games to date! I mean it is 10x's better then Oblivion in way of looks. Plus I feel they didn't under-do or over-do the dragon element, the engagements between dragons is common but not to the point where it becomes tedious. I also really like how Bethesda upped the fickleness of the lock picking... much improved to that of Fallout or even the dreadful lock picking mini game in Oblivion. The new menu system is a big improvement, and the commonness of gold is greatly apreciated, over all I think that Skyrim is a huge step forward compared to Oblivion, and Fallout.... Fallout New Vegas almost made me lose faith in Bethesda, but Skyrim brought it back. Can't even fathom what the next Elderscrolls is going to do, to take it to a hole 'notha level… Expand
  12. jehangir
    Nov 16, 2011
    10
    This is the best rpg ever made since baldurs gate 1 and 2 (period). the gameplay , music and the long hours of fun and entertainment really make this game the best of its genre and giving itself unlimited replayability . if you have played oblivion you should definately play skyrim because it is way better . do not worry about the glitches bethesda will be releasing a fix through its firstThis is the best rpg ever made since baldurs gate 1 and 2 (period). the gameplay , music and the long hours of fun and entertainment really make this game the best of its genre and giving itself unlimited replayability . if you have played oblivion you should definately play skyrim because it is way better . do not worry about the glitches bethesda will be releasing a fix through its first expansion. skyrim is not just a game it is an experience you will never forget .… Expand
  13. Ukz0
    Nov 16, 2011
    10
    A Definite Game Of The Year Competitor,If not already,winner.The leveling system is vastly superior to its predecessor "Oblivion" and the game strives to solve most problems.if not all,encountered in oblivion.Regardless of storyline,the game features an epic 300+ Hours of Game-play and DLC on the way!You can't ask much more of a game.
  14. cooks
    Nov 16, 2011
    10
    Skyrim is the best game I have ever played. Giving an ultra realistic sense of you being in the game and with fantastic attention to detail, skyrim slowly sucks the player in making the hours feel like seconds. The gameplay is fun, the rewards are...well rewarding, and the overall sense of adventure is always there. Although it is plagued by a few bugs, none of them affected by overallSkyrim is the best game I have ever played. Giving an ultra realistic sense of you being in the game and with fantastic attention to detail, skyrim slowly sucks the player in making the hours feel like seconds. The gameplay is fun, the rewards are...well rewarding, and the overall sense of adventure is always there. Although it is plagued by a few bugs, none of them affected by overall feeling for the game. Anyone who owns a 360 should definitely buy this game.… Expand
  15. NoNuttin
    Nov 16, 2011
    10
    I wish that this game wasn't released at the same time as MW3 as I have to split time between them. If I did not have to sleep I would play this game 24/7. It is the best RPG that I have played. It has everything, good graphics, depth, personality and an addictive game-play that does not let you go. The replay value is high and I cannot wait to finish it and get some DLC.
  16. peperico
    Nov 16, 2011
    10
    this game is awesome - simply awesome. it has everything my adventure heart desires. i wish wow or rift would have elements this game has thought about. the graphics are immensely involving, the story is inspiring and the characters feel real. i have been playing this for 15 hours now and i cant stop thinking of continuing my adventure. i work full time so i have limited time to play. ifthis game is awesome - simply awesome. it has everything my adventure heart desires. i wish wow or rift would have elements this game has thought about. the graphics are immensely involving, the story is inspiring and the characters feel real. i have been playing this for 15 hours now and i cant stop thinking of continuing my adventure. i work full time so i have limited time to play. if you love epic adventures, do not hesitate, buy it now.… Expand
  17. MrChristopher
    Nov 16, 2011
    8
    From the very first moment the game has you engaged and throws you into a world you're dying to find out more about. The combat is fluid and the story is engaging. Skyrim is one of the biggest games i've seen all year, often I would go and do a side quest only to gain 4 more quests along the way, then 2 more for each of those etc etc. A few bugs hinder the experience but on the same note aFrom the very first moment the game has you engaged and throws you into a world you're dying to find out more about. The combat is fluid and the story is engaging. Skyrim is one of the biggest games i've seen all year, often I would go and do a side quest only to gain 4 more quests along the way, then 2 more for each of those etc etc. A few bugs hinder the experience but on the same note a few of them make for good comedy, such as the Skyrim space program. The PC version of the game suffers from the consoles poorly designed menu system. You'll soon get used to it but for those of you who are dedicated PC gamers, you'll find yourself quickly infuriated. I recommend this game for anyone, even people who've never even played an Elder scrolls game before. The game is just pure Adventure fantasy fun.… Expand
  18. TheMightyThor
    Nov 16, 2011
    10
    I had never played Morrowind. I had barely played Oblivion, it hardly interested me. And yet i had a hunch about Skyrim. That hunch has paid off immensely. I just can't put the game down every time I pick it up: and rather than sending you down a narrow path of epic story, it opens up a gigantic world built from the ground up of epic. How much do I like this game? I want to experienceI had never played Morrowind. I had barely played Oblivion, it hardly interested me. And yet i had a hunch about Skyrim. That hunch has paid off immensely. I just can't put the game down every time I pick it up: and rather than sending you down a narrow path of epic story, it opens up a gigantic world built from the ground up of epic. How much do I like this game? I want to experience everything with my character I've created, and yet I want to create at least three more characters. Skyrim is so immersible, and I love it.… Expand
  19. LeutArtemis
    Nov 16, 2011
    10
    Oh. My. God. This game is incredible. It has to be, hands down one of the single greatest gaming experiences of my life. This and the first time I played CoD: 4 multiplayer (the series has gone down-hill yes) would have to be my two top gaming moments. I literally do not know how anyone could even mildly fault this game, the graphics are not ABSOLUTELY perfect I admit, but when you takeOh. My. God. This game is incredible. It has to be, hands down one of the single greatest gaming experiences of my life. This and the first time I played CoD: 4 multiplayer (the series has gone down-hill yes) would have to be my two top gaming moments. I literally do not know how anyone could even mildly fault this game, the graphics are not ABSOLUTELY perfect I admit, but when you take into account the sheer scale of this game it is completely justified. Most definitely Game of the Year in my books.… Expand
  20. fatsouls
    Nov 22, 2011
    10
    awsome
  21. Michy
    Nov 18, 2011
    10
    This game is absolutely incredible, to put it simply. The landscape is crisp and leaves much to be explored. With an abundance of features and content, a player can never get bored of this game, and can never finish it either. The lore is deep and highly detailed, and leaves the player to make their own decisions to determine their fate. The game simply improves the franchise and moves itThis game is absolutely incredible, to put it simply. The landscape is crisp and leaves much to be explored. With an abundance of features and content, a player can never get bored of this game, and can never finish it either. The lore is deep and highly detailed, and leaves the player to make their own decisions to determine their fate. The game simply improves the franchise and moves it forward as a great sequel to TES: Oblivion. Truly a game to be remembered forever.… Expand
  22. gtamaniakCZ
    Nov 19, 2011
    10
    Masterpiece. Art. Epic win.
    These are the words that came on my mind when writing this.
    Skyrim is the BEST RPG OF ALL TIME. Its also an GOTY. And, its maybe one of the best games i have ever played. Go buy it. I dont know why you're here. Just buy it.
  23. Gygaa
    Nov 19, 2011
    8
    If I decided to wait until I'd completed Skyrim to write this review, you wouldn't be reading it until next year at least. This game is big. The radiant quest system is capable of generating an infinite amount of miscellaneous quests, on top of the fascinating side quests and a main questline that is a large improvement on Oblivions. Skyrim's voice acting ranges from perfect to laughableIf I decided to wait until I'd completed Skyrim to write this review, you wouldn't be reading it until next year at least. This game is big. The radiant quest system is capable of generating an infinite amount of miscellaneous quests, on top of the fascinating side quests and a main questline that is a large improvement on Oblivions. Skyrim's voice acting ranges from perfect to laughable (but in a good way) and the games soundtrack is all you could ask for. This games only real downfall (apart from the odd glitch here and there) is in the visual department and is what stops it getting a 10/10 from me. The graphics don't render very well especially when you stand atop a mountain and look out at what you would hope to be a beautiful landscape, but instead is something more reminiscent of Minecraft. On a positive note though, the dungeons in this game are actually really detailed and far more varied than those in Oblivion. All in all Skyrim should be a definite purchase for any gamer, no-one will not enjoy this game. Quick tip: Bethesda have said not to install the game to your hard-drive because for some reason it makes the rendering of graphics even worse.… Expand
  24. dtaurasi
    Nov 19, 2011
    10
    Simply amazing and addictive! You will keep coming back and the game is huge. Probably my favorite game ever which tops Halo 3 and Bioshock. Fixed every problem of oblivion.
  25. maxii345
    Nov 19, 2011
    10
    Epic.
    After entering the Elder Scrolls series at Oblivion, I honestly didn't think there could ever be a game that would affect me as much as Oblivion managed to, with it's huge world, and (at the time) stunning graphics, it seemed impossible to beat.
    I was wrong. Skyrim takes everything that was amazing about Oblivion, and improves upon it ten-fold, whether this is the superior leveling    Epic.
    After entering the Elder Scrolls series at Oblivion, I honestly didn't think there could ever be a game that would affect me as much as Oblivion managed to, with it's huge world, and (at the time) stunning graphics, it seemed impossible to beat.

    I was wrong. Skyrim takes everything that was amazing about Oblivion, and improves upon it ten-fold, whether this is the superior leveling system, which finally manages to perfect the 'natural' in-game leveling, or the amazing story line which absorbs you into every quest, and manages to completely avoid repetition within the story line, something that is rare to see in many modern games.

    Another one of my favorite improvements over the previous games is the weapons and armor system, this is due to, unlike Oblivion, allowing all weapons and armor to be unlocked at a low level, if you manage to gather the resources required to forge the weapon or armor, as long as your smithing skill is high enough.

    I could go on about this game way past the word limit, but all you need to know is buy this game. It's the best choice I ever made buying this game over any of the generic fps shooters.

    Bethesda, I love you.
    Maxii345    … Expand
  26. NoopyNoops
    Nov 19, 2011
    10
    Taco bell is good. So is this game. So deal with it and stop moaning. Bananas. May be dear, but so is life, baby. So, tacos and bananas, Jim Sterling, noonynoop
  27. kotwr424
    Nov 20, 2011
    8
    I wasn't a huge fan of Oblivion and Skyrim is a big improvement over that however the one thing that still just doesn't feel up to stuff is the main storyline. I always feel a game should have that Whoa factor that makes you want to explore it more the storyline never grasped me I had to force myself to get into it. Now as for the sandbox that is superb and what I spent a lot of timeI wasn't a huge fan of Oblivion and Skyrim is a big improvement over that however the one thing that still just doesn't feel up to stuff is the main storyline. I always feel a game should have that Whoa factor that makes you want to explore it more the storyline never grasped me I had to force myself to get into it. Now as for the sandbox that is superb and what I spent a lot of time doing. Looking forward to spending more time with the game, but I wouldn't go out of my way to call it the greatest game ever it does a lot of things great but falls short in a few others, and I pity the PS3 users.… Expand
  28. FJay
    Nov 20, 2011
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Having played TES series for quite a few years (and many, many hours) I eagerly anticipated Skyrims release, I'm now on my third playthrough and have spent around 60 or so hours in total playing. My first impressions were positive as I explored Skyrims landscape, I was slightly overwhelmed at the sheer size of the game (but that is a usual occurance with TES games) although after after a few hours skyrim started to feel more familiar. I somewhat enjoyed the main questline although many of the quest involve much of the same 'fetch quests' as Oblivion had, I was however pleasantly suprised with how different choices made in the during certain questlines impact on the world, this isn't really something that has been done before in TES games so Bethesda get kudos for that. Now the main problems I have with this game are Guild quests, in Morrowind they had an excellent structre for advancing in guilds i.e you could join the mages guild, travel to different guild houses around morrowind and advance as you complete missions and improved your stats, in Skyrim and Oblivion (although oblivion not as much) you pretty much have 5 to 10 guild missions and once completed you find yourself as head of the guild, to me this seems somewhat unrealistic and rushed, I don't feel the guild questlines have any replayability and I wasn't really blown away while playing them through the first time. My second problem is the world of skyrim, as I explored more and got into the game I couldn't help feeling Bethesda had made tamriel more generic, I loved how different Morrowind as a gameworld felt to any other RPG world around, it was different , almost magical, Skyrim is more middle of the road and slightly dull.… Expand
  29. Wolfwing0100
    Nov 20, 2011
    10
    One word: EPIC. Skyrim will pack you in soo many hours of gameplay. Greatly improved visuals, engine. quests ETC. Extremely convient menu layout for Consoles.....on PC...not so much. I even once spent 1 hour just watching NPC's work. If you want something worth your money.....this is the game to get. Soo many things to do and just finding all the locations in the game can take 4-6 days.
  30. TortureTrilogy
    Nov 20, 2011
    10
    I have never really been a fan of RPG's in the past and I never played the previous Elder Scrolls games. My friends started telling me how great and fun Skyrim was and how it was a pretty new story so I would not need to play previous games. I went and rented the game and after a few hours of playing I knew it was a buy. This game is amazing, a nice break from all the shooters out there. II have never really been a fan of RPG's in the past and I never played the previous Elder Scrolls games. My friends started telling me how great and fun Skyrim was and how it was a pretty new story so I would not need to play previous games. I went and rented the game and after a few hours of playing I knew it was a buy. This game is amazing, a nice break from all the shooters out there. I can honestly say I am having fun fighting dragons, doing mission...endless list of things you can do in this game.… Expand
  31. Aarvex
    Nov 20, 2011
    9
    i was concerned that as I was writing this review that I'd switch my score for this game to a 10. But for me to do so would be to say the game is perfect or so near perfect that it hid its flaws. However close Skyrim came to hiding it's flaws it still had them. Texture popping, getting trapped in small cracks, but these are the few things that it does wrong. The game is epic, charactersi was concerned that as I was writing this review that I'd switch my score for this game to a 10. But for me to do so would be to say the game is perfect or so near perfect that it hid its flaws. However close Skyrim came to hiding it's flaws it still had them. Texture popping, getting trapped in small cracks, but these are the few things that it does wrong. The game is epic, characters are the most engaging characters I've seen in an elder scrolls game and it is fun to watch above all.… Expand
  32. di3go
    Nov 21, 2011
    10
    Its kinda masterpiece... a lot of things to do, very good scripting (finally the game doesnt forget what npc are doing when you leave the cell), very well designed dungeons, good story (so far), very nice graphic and yes, finally very stable (at least on my pc).
    Music is very good and it seems to live there, if you know what i mean. Everything looks so full of life and every step you take    Its kinda masterpiece... a lot of things to do, very good scripting (finally the game doesnt forget what npc are doing when you leave the cell), very well designed dungeons, good story (so far), very nice graphic and yes, finally very stable (at least on my pc).
    Music is very good and it seems to live there, if you know what i mean. Everything looks so full of life and every step you take there is a lot of things to do.
    The UI is not that good, i hope some good mods to take care of that (like in Olbivion).
    But finally, a very nice rpg game, its from Morrowind i didnt spend so much time on a game :)

    And above all, for the first time i dont use fast travel... Very nice work Bethesda... very nice.    … Expand
  33. mypcpros
    Nov 21, 2011
    10
    This is a fantastic game. I usually don't like RPG or FPS games but I thought I'd give this one a try. I'm really glad I did.
    PROS: a seemingly never-ending amount of quests and story lines. Great graphics, support for DirectX10.
    CONS: there are some areas where the game crashes. I found out if you play those couple of areas in "windowed mode" that you can get through it without    This is a fantastic game. I usually don't like RPG or FPS games but I thought I'd give this one a try. I'm really glad I did.
    PROS: a seemingly never-ending amount of quests and story lines. Great graphics, support for DirectX10.
    CONS: there are some areas where the game crashes. I found out if you play those couple of areas in "windowed mode" that you can get through it without crashing. Hopefully there'll be patches for these.    … Expand
  34. YipManSays
    Nov 21, 2011
    9
    I've been an Elder Scrolls fan since the third installment of the series, Elder Scrolls Morrowind. I've always enjoyed the open world and the shear expansive size of the games. Skyrim further continues my love for the series. The world is rich and expansive and I truly feel that you get your $60 worth when you buy this game. It is packed full of content and allows the player a lot ofI've been an Elder Scrolls fan since the third installment of the series, Elder Scrolls Morrowind. I've always enjoyed the open world and the shear expansive size of the games. Skyrim further continues my love for the series. The world is rich and expansive and I truly feel that you get your $60 worth when you buy this game. It is packed full of content and allows the player a lot of control on play style. For the most part the graphics are great with the occasional glitch and texture issues but overall is amazing to look into the distance and seen expansive mountain ranges. The game is an overall improvement from Oblivion in terms of menus, character customization, character models, and world. With Morrowind I always felt that the world had an awesome size and lots of mystery to it which encouraged exploration but the game had many technical problems. However with Oblivion I felt that it fixed those problems but lost the expansiveness of Morrowind. I feel like Skyrim is the perfect coupling of Morrowind and Oblivion! It's good fun!… Expand
  35. NazTfox
    Nov 21, 2011
    10
    Best Elder Scrolls yet. This game has so much content packed inside I was amazed they fit it all on one disc. You will be playing this game well past the holiday season and I'm definitely looking forward to future DLC. This is the best RPG experience I have had to date. This game has my vote for game of the year.
  36. Shadexx7
    Nov 21, 2011
    9
    One thing to get across first: I have played both Dark Souls and Skyrim for a good 20+ hours and have come to a conclusion.

    Skryim is MUCH better. Skyrim is, without a doubt, one of the best games to come out this year (if not the best). The combat is MUCH improved from Oblivion, and archery is actually useful for once in the history of The Elder Scrolls. The quests are interesting and    One thing to get across first: I have played both Dark Souls and Skyrim for a good 20+ hours and have come to a conclusion.

    Skryim is MUCH better.

    Skyrim is, without a doubt, one of the best games to come out this year (if not the best). The combat is MUCH improved from Oblivion, and archery is actually useful for once in the history of The Elder Scrolls. The quests are interesting and very fun to play are amazing. The main quest, however, did disappoint in that there was nothing really new; it felt as if it was just another quest where I had to go and find this object or talk to that person.

    There are a few complaints, however. Magic seems limited: it doesn't seem like there are nearly as many spells as there were in Oblivion, and there is no spell-making. The companion system was added but is still rather...bad. I found myself going off on my own since I didn't want my companion to go and kill herself by attacking a dragon. Some low-res textures kind of take away from the experience, and there are minor animation issues but...all of that is easily overlooked.

    Skyrim is a masterpiece, and I recommend it to everyone.    … Expand
  37. zombiehunter
    Nov 21, 2011
    10
    So after 80 hours invested what do I think? Skyrim is amazing. This game is huge in a way that is almost unbelievable. The landscape is vast, and varied and beautiful. There are many quests to do, many dungeons to explore, items to collect. I wish I could convey why this game is probably one of, if not THE best game I have ever played. Many times you play sand box style games whereSo after 80 hours invested what do I think? Skyrim is amazing. This game is huge in a way that is almost unbelievable. The landscape is vast, and varied and beautiful. There are many quests to do, many dungeons to explore, items to collect. I wish I could convey why this game is probably one of, if not THE best game I have ever played. Many times you play sand box style games where the game dev says things like "you can do whatever you want." Well with Skyrim that is actually true. There are no artificial limits herding you towards completing the story. You can from the moment you start, do whatever you desire. You can play the game for hundreds of hours and not even touch the main story. Its the sort of freedom that other games claim to have, but never do. That being said, there are flaws. Any game half the size of this one should have tons. Skyrim does NOT have tons, but it does have a few. Mainly in quest implementation, but as I write this Bethesda does have a patch currently going through the approval process and I expect many of the flaws to be corrected. All in all, this is a great game, and well worth the price. This game is definitely my GOTY.… Expand
  38. BlurOfBlaze
    Nov 22, 2011
    9
    Starting off playing the game I notice such a feel for it, like walking outside from a stuffy room too a fresh air breeze. That's what this game is like, compared to it's previous game Oblivion the graphic's are so much better, the feel for it and the whole new creation engine they use is much more detailed. The combat system is so much better when you're using you're magic spells youStarting off playing the game I notice such a feel for it, like walking outside from a stuffy room too a fresh air breeze. That's what this game is like, compared to it's previous game Oblivion the graphic's are so much better, the feel for it and the whole new creation engine they use is much more detailed. The combat system is so much better when you're using you're magic spells you actually feel like a mage when you're sneaking around you really feel like a thief or a assassin in the shadows waiting to kill you're target, the only problem is the fact of some glitches witch is well known for Bethesda type games and before we know it it's gonna be patched up and perfected.… Expand
  39. akirausa
    Nov 22, 2011
    10
    the biggest game of the year and the decades !!! they changed many things for our enjoyment. it's an epic game that makes us fight dragons and climb the snowy mountains.
    I LOVE THIS GAME !!!! thanks bethesda
  40. haze166
    Nov 22, 2011
    10
    This is the most anticipated game of the history and its visual art, graphic, gameplay, music and voice acting was perfect but facial animation kinda look like fallout 3 and fallout new vegas is pretty old but still okay and i like the atmosphere very much and the engine called "Creation Engine" is a superb and the story is fantastic and also for a side story but the game also had alot ofThis is the most anticipated game of the history and its visual art, graphic, gameplay, music and voice acting was perfect but facial animation kinda look like fallout 3 and fallout new vegas is pretty old but still okay and i like the atmosphere very much and the engine called "Creation Engine" is a superb and the story is fantastic and also for a side story but the game also had alot of issues about bug and glitches like fallout 3 and fallout new vegas which i don't like it but i think it is the best RPG game ever so i was thinking maybe Bethesda could used "Creation Engine" on fallout 4 thumbs up if you agree :)… Expand
  41. juanjuan
    Nov 22, 2011
    10
    It is a vast understatement to call this an "Improvement" over Bethesda's previous installment in the series. Almost every feature has been improved upon, from the quick use menu and favourites list, to the graphics and stat system. It is almost difficult to believe that this game is running on the same hardware as Elder Scrolls IV Oblivion, as you take in the breathtaking scenery andIt is a vast understatement to call this an "Improvement" over Bethesda's previous installment in the series. Almost every feature has been improved upon, from the quick use menu and favourites list, to the graphics and stat system. It is almost difficult to believe that this game is running on the same hardware as Elder Scrolls IV Oblivion, as you take in the breathtaking scenery and character design. From giant, amazing and beautiful creatures such as Dwemer robotic golems, mammoths and of course, dragons, to the small insect life, and birds flying overhead. This game is teeming with life, and features some of the most beautiful creature animations i have seen to date. A couple things bothered me greatly about the still fun and amazing elder scrolls oblivion, such as an extreme abundance of glitches, as well as a horrible stat system, which discouraged playing the game freely without pruning each skill specifically, as to raise your stats to be the highest possible. Skyrim changes the around perfectly, with a system that encourages you to play exactly how you want to, and become exactly who you want to be. I personally chose a heavy armor specializing Khajiit, with a focus on restoration magicka and talents in smithing, alchemy, enchanting and speech. In addition, it is appealing to find a lack of glitches in the game, after experiencing how common they were in previous installments. I have found a handful in perhaps over a hundred hours of gameplay, which is to be expected with any game, none-the-less such a massive open world experience. So far I have played 100+ hours, and I am still finding creative, entertaining, and often awe inspiring scenes, quests, and situations in the game. I expect to play at least a hundred more hours, not including the guaranteed extra play-though or two in my future. In my opinion, the improvements made, and complete mass of quality and quantity in this game should put to shame some of the other recent games to come out, such as Skyward Sword, and Modern Warfare 3. Same genre or not, it should be easy to see which of the series' titles outshines the others in improvements made and overall quality… Expand
  42. Acquiredempire
    Dec 13, 2011
    7
    Fun but main story is way too short and NPCs had little to no personality. Never felt any strong emotion or bond to any faction or character. Ending was non eventful. When I beat the main story quests I didn't even realize it. To me it felt like is should have been the half way point. The world itself is very well done and fun to explore. Fighting is the best it has ever been in the ElderFun but main story is way too short and NPCs had little to no personality. Never felt any strong emotion or bond to any faction or character. Ending was non eventful. When I beat the main story quests I didn't even realize it. To me it felt like is should have been the half way point. The world itself is very well done and fun to explore. Fighting is the best it has ever been in the Elder scrolls series. Not too many bugs and glitchs as previous installments. Just wish it had more memorable NPCs and a deeper story but the game is very well made otherwise.… Expand
  43. Davidlmw
    Sep 4, 2012
    6
    Having played Skyrim and the DLC I must continue to ask both Bethesda and the user's who gave it a 10 to look at what the definition/definitions of a true RPG game are. (Wikipedia has some good one's) In the end there are consequences for the choices you make in the conversation wheel or in your choice of actions or inactions in the gameplay itself in a true RPG.

    The only consequences    Having played Skyrim and the DLC I must continue to ask both Bethesda and the user's who gave it a 10 to look at what the definition/definitions of a true RPG game are. (Wikipedia has some good one's) In the end there are consequences for the choices you make in the conversation wheel or in your choice of actions or inactions in the gameplay itself in a true RPG.

    The only consequences that can be placed in an RPG role are what happens if you choose to pay a bounty or not or steal from someone in Skyrim or choose to do a quest or not which is not an RPG.

    As many users have noted there are far to many bugs, freezes and QA issues that could have been dealt with prior to release.

    The storylines are mediocore at best and the NPC involvement or lack thereof allows for no relationship building and consequences for your actions or inactions which an RPG by definition does allow.

    And as many users have remarked, the interfaces in combat situations are mediocore at best.

    Should Bethesda decide to develop a true open world game and an RPG I would suggest they gather the right mix of talent on the development team. It is clearly obvious that the artistic side was well represented. However, the RPG and UI was not; as well as QA. In Oblivion the menu system was tedious at best; and Skyrim was not that much better. For the obvious artistic representation I wish Bethesda would have devoted as much time on the RPG and UI side. If so, they would have developed a true classic. If one goes back and looks at Fallout 3 you can see that there are consequences for your choices, especially if you are not at the right skill level in areas like health and speech.

    Lastly, diversification is key in such an open world. If you take the time to explore the cave systems and Nord sites you will come to find that in the end it all looks the same with very little diversification and reward for completing any of them.

    I wish great game developers like Bethesda would not fold to the pressure of the "almighty dollar" and take the time to consider the consumer who does spend a great deal of money on these games and the hardware that supports them. BTW if you are going to sell a game as an RPG, by it's true definition, perhaps you might want to look at the definitons of an RPG first before you market it as an RPG to the consumer.    … Expand
  44. Terrifico
    Nov 22, 2012
    9
    Excellent game, TESV:Skyrim allows players to create a very customisable character and explore a huge world, complete a huge list of quests, clear hundreds of dungeons and more. Graphics wise, a very top-notch game, from the snowy mountain peaks to the grassy plains, constantly impressing. The music is some of the best ever heard in a game before, absolutely breath taking. The game couldExcellent game, TESV:Skyrim allows players to create a very customisable character and explore a huge world, complete a huge list of quests, clear hundreds of dungeons and more. Graphics wise, a very top-notch game, from the snowy mountain peaks to the grassy plains, constantly impressing. The music is some of the best ever heard in a game before, absolutely breath taking. The game could have used with a more customisable character skill wise, and shipped with fewer bugs, but these are minor nit-picks in one of the most amazing RPGs ever made.… Expand
  45. DrBoochie
    Sep 23, 2013
    6
    Before I get bombarded by fanboys, I need to make it clear that, unlike many of these reviews, I have had 2 years to formulate this review, of which I have spent a lot of time debating with myself how good this game is. I hope you will take that into consideration before reading this review.

    Overall I think Skyrim is a good game and an enjoyable experience for a period of time. However,    Before I get bombarded by fanboys, I need to make it clear that, unlike many of these reviews, I have had 2 years to formulate this review, of which I have spent a lot of time debating with myself how good this game is. I hope you will take that into consideration before reading this review.

    Overall I think Skyrim is a good game and an enjoyable experience for a period of time. However, I think the game has a lot of shortcomings. I'll try to highlight both the pros and cons.

    First things first, this isn't a Role Playing Game in the true sense of the phrase. A lack of solid class system means people can be the spellsword/tank/thief jack of all trades (and master of all, to boot). While this isn't a necessarily bad thing for a game, allowing flexibility in character development, it seems to take the 'role playing' out of the equation and leaving in the action, perhaps "dumbing down" this aspect predominant in the series.

    Keeping in the vein of mechanics, the quest system is boring and holds your hand. A pointer takes you directly where to go, kissing goodbye the investigative nature of Morrowind. It's a shame, since Morrowind (and even Oblivion, to an extent) was so strong due to this. Again, dumbing down is present. In terms of narrative, the quests in the basegame, bar a few exceptions, are mindless, unimaginative and tedious. The Daedric Quests are the only ones with any real depth to them, and the main storyline is more or less trash.

    The strengths of Skyrim lie in the well-overdue overhaul of Bethesda's game engine. The gamebryo engine, which seriously restricted Oblivion and Fallout 3, has been exchanged for the Creation Engine, which does Skyrim justice more can be done in terms of animation and design making Skyrim more immersive. However, the promises to improve combat in Skyrim seems superficial the only real additions to melee combat were dual-wielding and some (seriously artifacted) finishing moves, but otherwise the combat is as immersion-breaking as in Oblivion. However, the magic system is considerably improved in terms of mechanics, while the range of spells is disappointing. Archery (or marksmanship or whatever) is the true beneficiary of Skyrim, as the bows feel more weighty and is much more rewarding, so credit is due there. The stealth mechanics haven't improved noticeably since Oblivion, but it is serviceable and enjoyable enough. Overall, I'd give the general mechanics around 7/10, with some disappointments and steps back from Oblivion in places, with the interface feeling pretty clunky both on Xbox 360 and on PC.

    The graphics are where this title really saddens me. Even when the game came out, I thought it looked HIDEOUS. While there was some really nice shading and decent landscaping, the artstyle is drab. The huge colour palette of Oblivion is replaced for grey, white, black and more grey in the lands of Skyrim. While I appreciate that it fits the cold, northern setting of Skyrim, it feels as though the (clear) graphical improvements that Bethesda have made is wasted somewhat. Furthermore, the NPCs look downright creepy, with dead eyes that made me think of Polar Express some real uncanny valley stuff right there (look it up).

    My final point regards how many hours I put into the game before putting it down. I finished all of the main questlines and ALL of the considerable side quests in about 30 hours of play, over 2 characters. While there was initial wanderlust as I explored, the enjoyment trickled away over time until most of the game became a drag due to the aforementioned problems. If the game offered you more, then good for you! Nevertheless, 30 hours is a considerably quantity (while not compared to hundreds of hours spent in Oblivion and Fallout 3), but the quality wasn't entirely sound. While moments were truly epic (the first dragon appearance, for example), these were diamonds in the rough, with memorable parts too few and far between. This is disappointing in contrast to the myriad of other Bethesda titles, and while I have returned to Skyrim periodically since my initial playthrough(s), the visits were short and uninspired.

    Overall, I give this game a 6/10. It's better than average in most places, however there was potential for so much more. The combat was mostly unimproved, the quests were awful (both in mechanics and narrative) and the aesthetic was drab and poorly used. However, Skyrim has its merits in terms of its engine, and for this reason I do respect it somewhat.    … Expand
  46. Longbottom94
    Apr 29, 2013
    10
    Bethesda has managed to create what only few games are able to do, Skyrim provides the player with a huge and interesting gaming world but also have fun and entertaining game mechanics with equally nice graphics. Elder Scrolls 5 is by far one of the best games on the current generation systems
  47. BlaineT
    Nov 23, 2011
    10
    Fun, addictive, basically electronic crack. Get some Depends so you don't have to get up to go to the bathroom. Careful you don't get couch sores; remember to flip every few hours.
  48. milazar90
    Nov 22, 2011
    10
    I had never played Oblivion like most of my friends, however Skyrim is by far the most incredibly addicting and phenomenal game that i've ever been encouraged to try. It reminds me of the good ol Runescape days except the action is there and a brilliant level up system that gives endless customization. Not to mention the seemingly endless adventures and treasures around every corner. GAMEI had never played Oblivion like most of my friends, however Skyrim is by far the most incredibly addicting and phenomenal game that i've ever been encouraged to try. It reminds me of the good ol Runescape days except the action is there and a brilliant level up system that gives endless customization. Not to mention the seemingly endless adventures and treasures around every corner. GAME OF THE YEAR HANDS DOWN… Expand
  49. Troz3
    Nov 26, 2011
    10
    How can some of the negative reviews say the graphics are barely better than Oblivion? This game has the best graphics of the year. The bugs aren't nearly as bad as other people are saying, and the combat has been much improved. Their are actually stats in your skills, and I really don't mind the loss of classes and attributes. It actually makes it more like an RPG, since the Role(R)How can some of the negative reviews say the graphics are barely better than Oblivion? This game has the best graphics of the year. The bugs aren't nearly as bad as other people are saying, and the combat has been much improved. Their are actually stats in your skills, and I really don't mind the loss of classes and attributes. It actually makes it more like an RPG, since the Role(R) you're playing (P) in the game (G) completely shapes the way your character progresses. There are lots of weapons and quests, dungeons are incredibly varied and unique. Dragons are a blast to fight, and so are most of the other enemies. 10/10 for sure, one of the greatest games ever made, EVER.… Expand
  50. Hrodwulf
    Nov 23, 2011
    10
    One of the best single player games I have ever played. I wasn't expecting much and was blown away. My only disappointment is that it will sometime end.
  51. Incarta
    Feb 8, 2014
    9
    If you're a novice, this game will be too big and too punishing. It doesn't hold your hand. But if you know what you're doing, it's a joy. Beautiful game.
  52. SethW
    Nov 15, 2011
    10
    This game is the most amazing game I have ever played. Ever. There is such an overwhelming amount of content in this one disc, an amount that has yet to be duplicated on a game with four discs! The landscape is insanely diverse and beautiful. Girlfriend, say goodbye ;)
  53. GarethCritic
    Nov 22, 2011
    10
    It's worth every penny thst you should spend on it and every hour youu should put it into beating the game. There are no words in existence to describe how much fun Skyrim is so; orgasmazing.
  54. kakupacal
    Nov 16, 2011
    9
    A significant improvement over Oblivion's non-responsive melee combat and the "stroke victim" expressions on all of the characters. The wild world is a treat to wander about--stepping off of the main road and poking around in hidden glades and snowy crags and the unexpected surprises that come with off-roading it. Character advancement is engrossing and always filled with tough choicesA significant improvement over Oblivion's non-responsive melee combat and the "stroke victim" expressions on all of the characters. The wild world is a treat to wander about--stepping off of the main road and poking around in hidden glades and snowy crags and the unexpected surprises that come with off-roading it. Character advancement is engrossing and always filled with tough choices regarding which talents to bump up - so much so that it begs for multiple plays with totally different character builds. A few bugs and glitches are evident and the game occasionally "cheats" (such as making some NPCs unkillable no matter how well you beat them down) but I can overlook that stuff in such a vast, densely packed game.… Expand
  55. mj787878
    Nov 20, 2011
    10
    I feel sorry for those who somehow manage not to enjoy this game. Maybe Zelda on the wii is more your speed? It's good that we have a choice, don't you think?
  56. EJA
    Jul 29, 2013
    7
    I wanna give this a 9 or a 10 but the loading times get RIDICULOUS after playing for a while. I mean they just get longer and longer. And this game has tons of places where it needs to load so there might be 100 plus hours of gameplay but you will spend 100 plus hours in loading screens.

    What a shame because the scope of the game is huge. It is a tad shallow in terms of character    I wanna give this a 9 or a 10 but the loading times get RIDICULOUS after playing for a while. I mean they just get longer and longer. And this game has tons of places where it needs to load so there might be 100 plus hours of gameplay but you will spend 100 plus hours in loading screens.

    What a shame because the scope of the game is huge. It is a tad shallow in terms of character development but exploration is the name of the game here. The visuals vary, the dungeons are individually unique, and the terrain is grandiose.

    It's in the same vein as Oblivion and Morrowind so if you like those you will love this. Morrowind is still the best but this is way better than Oblivion.    … Expand
  57. SpectorJudge
    Nov 22, 2011
    10
    The graphics are like the beard of Chuck Norris, The story is like the story of Chuck Norris' third fist inside his beard, and the game play is viscous enough to round-house kick you to Pluto and back.
  58. Snipestrifer
    Nov 18, 2011
    10
    Quite possibly the greatest game ever made. This isn't goty, this could be game of the freaking decade. I found myself completely immersed in a totally beautiful world with alnost not limits. The skill system is much improved, as you're no longer limited to a single class and simply get skill gains by putting them into practice, which is pretty awesome, not to mention using a spell whileQuite possibly the greatest game ever made. This isn't goty, this could be game of the freaking decade. I found myself completely immersed in a totally beautiful world with alnost not limits. The skill system is much improved, as you're no longer limited to a single class and simply get skill gains by putting them into practice, which is pretty awesome, not to mention using a spell while smashing someone in the face with an axe is pretty damn satisfying. Next up is the story, which is cool, but you can put it on permanent hold if you wish as there are more or less and infinite amount of side-quests to do with alternating storylines. Speech and interaction is better than in oblivion and graphics are far superior too. All in all, 10/10.… Expand
  59. Sliggs
    Nov 21, 2011
    10
    This game, in my personal opinion, is the best single player experience you will have on this generation of consoles. It blows oblivion completely out of the water. No, its not perfect, but it is as close to perfect a game of this scope can be and for that I give it a 10 for the best RPG game ever made. The End.
  60. knisone
    Nov 25, 2011
    9
    They took what was good about the first game and made it a little better. They aren't the improvements by leaps and bounds over the predecessor however they are pretty decent. The only draw back that I see thus far is the menu. Normally you hit the O button to back out of a sub menu this time you are completely taken out. That takes a little getting used too. Not being able to wield aThey took what was good about the first game and made it a little better. They aren't the improvements by leaps and bounds over the predecessor however they are pretty decent. The only draw back that I see thus far is the menu. Normally you hit the O button to back out of a sub menu this time you are completely taken out. That takes a little getting used too. Not being able to wield a weapon at the same time you are using magic actually really sucks. I mean SUCKS!!!! The gameplay is nice and fluid. The character interactions are decent, and true to Bethesda history. They took enough out of character building just to keep in interesting for diehards and newbies alike. But seriously the magic thing really is a bust. Simply put I hate that aspect of the game.… Expand
  61. NaughtyProwler
    Nov 22, 2011
    10
    With the overabundance of linear games on the market, Skyrim is a treat for anyone looking for a title with open adventuring and exploration.

    For the amount of content in this game, the value is simply unmatched by any other game out there. Bethesda is showing other companies how to treat a consumer right. No day 1 DLC content, few bugs, great production value and a downright fun game!    With the overabundance of linear games on the market, Skyrim is a treat for anyone looking for a title with open adventuring and exploration.

    For the amount of content in this game, the value is simply unmatched by any other game out there. Bethesda is showing other companies how to treat a consumer right. No day 1 DLC content, few bugs, great production value and a downright fun game!

    This game is huge and the improvements over Oblivion are great. Improved graphics, better voice overs, better AI, faster loading, quicker and improved UI, every dungeon feels different... the list goes on and on.    … Expand
  62. Michaelnj
    Nov 20, 2011
    9
    I hadn't heard of Elder Scrolls until my friend told me of Skyrims recent release. I tried it, and I must say it is the best RPG experience I've had. A few downsides: 1. Combat system could've been more intense and advanced. Skyrim is far ahead of Dragon Age, but the DA 2 combat system might be a good inspiration for Bethesda on how to make combat more intense and smooth, of cause WITHOUTI hadn't heard of Elder Scrolls until my friend told me of Skyrims recent release. I tried it, and I must say it is the best RPG experience I've had. A few downsides: 1. Combat system could've been more intense and advanced. Skyrim is far ahead of Dragon Age, but the DA 2 combat system might be a good inspiration for Bethesda on how to make combat more intense and smooth, of cause WITHOUT the "targeting" aspect. Combat is perhaps a little too dull and glitchy in some cases.

    2. Generally there are way too many world glitches, mainly NPCâ    … Expand
  63. binaryweapon
    Nov 21, 2011
    7
    Although the game is growing on me, I must say that for something from such an established production company like Besthesda it sure does have its detractions. As has been said countless times already, the textures are stunningly low quality, the combat mechanics are dull, and the menu system is annoying at best. If the time put forth here had been put into Fallout 4 instead, that gameAlthough the game is growing on me, I must say that for something from such an established production company like Besthesda it sure does have its detractions. As has been said countless times already, the textures are stunningly low quality, the combat mechanics are dull, and the menu system is annoying at best. If the time put forth here had been put into Fallout 4 instead, that game would be life-changing. Instead, we get this.… Expand
  64. thefirstknight1
    Nov 15, 2011
    10
    I am giving this game a 10 for various reasons. 1 reason is we have haters on here that give this game a 0! I am sorry, no game deserves a ZERO!! The crappiest games should get a 1 or a 2. A zero would mean that it didnt have ANYTHING GOOD ABOUT IT which is not true. 1. The music IS COMPLETELY EPIC. If any of you liked lord of the rings music then you would LOVE the music beingI am giving this game a 10 for various reasons. 1 reason is we have haters on here that give this game a 0! I am sorry, no game deserves a ZERO!! The crappiest games should get a 1 or a 2. A zero would mean that it didnt have ANYTHING GOOD ABOUT IT which is not true. 1. The music IS COMPLETELY EPIC. If any of you liked lord of the rings music then you would LOVE the music being played. Out of the last 2 games, the music is GREAT. The music is what you would expect from a Grade A fantasy movie. The graphics are BEAUTIFUL. Even on the xbox 360 it still stands out. Now, some complain about graphic textures from far away. Let me tell you that the xbox is a 6 year old console. The developers can only improve so much before system limitations get in the way. What gaming rig can actually produce awesome draw distances and cystal clear textures from a far way distance. FEW! That is why it is pointless for the developers to put all this effort in to deter texture distances. Just wait until the next series comes out to where its on a next gen console and latest hardware....you wont have anything to complain about then...but on current hardware, its maxes any machine out. Wait until the next gen ...you will see superior and close to perfection draw distances/distant textures but for right now your machines wont handle it. The world IS HUGE!! There are so many places to explore, side quests and main quests to complete. Some people complain about how big the world is. God, that is the point of a game like this...to be able to get LOST in it and discover something new. Afterall, its an ACTION RPG ADVENTURE!! part of the adventure is exploring and discovering....morons. OF course, you can get a map or game guide and it will help ease any confusion. To me, I suggest not using the game guide or map that much. Just explore and enjoy yourself...the reward is finding and completing quests without any help. The NPCs and enemies look awesome...they are as detailed as you can get on a console or pc of this generation. Character creations is pretty detailed and I have not seen any other open world game to beat it. I made my character look like me or at least resemble me. The UI is good and some say its like fallout. Fine, but how many other fan boy games did you buy that kept the same UI? Stupid thing to complain about! You can zoom into your items and assign spells, weapons, potions and etc to your favorites. Working a job like chopping wood and etc is cool. Fable did the same thing and got praise for it. Cooking food, potion crafting, and smithing is pretty neat as well. Although, previous ES series have done this, they added a little more umph to it. A new feature is mining which is what RISEN did. Essentially, they took fables jobs, house, marriage and Risens style of crafting and put it together. VERY GOOD MIX. Combat has improved, one thing to note about Two worlds 2 is the combat animations. Skyrim has mimic this effect from fallout TW2. With ES, it doesnt happen every single time like it does with fallout and TW2. This leaves the effects enjoyable as you don't SEE THEM ALL THE TIME. Dragon fights are riveting. Combat is VERY enjoyable! its a hack and slash with spells. If you like turn based RPGs...then stay away from Skyrim. The various guilds you can join is still impressive as it was in the previous games. Being a thief, assassin, mage, a fighter, and etc puts all the favorite game styles together so ANYONE can enjoy at LEAST one aspect of the game. I could write a WHOLE book on this game but I wont. music-9.7
    graphics-9.5
    gameplay-10
    UI-9.1
    combat-9.0
    content-10
    game is truely worthy of a 95%. I am giving it 10 because of the losers giving it a complete 0    … Expand
  65. PandaThing
    Nov 18, 2011
    10
    Where most games give you 6-7 hours of playtime, Skyrim gives you 50+. The world is breathtaking, the myriad of caves, ruins and various dungeons are interesting to explore, many with small quests or story behind them. The graphics are excellent, especially when exploring the open world, which is huge, bigger than both oblivion and fallout. Quests vary in length, and are far easier toWhere most games give you 6-7 hours of playtime, Skyrim gives you 50+. The world is breathtaking, the myriad of caves, ruins and various dungeons are interesting to explore, many with small quests or story behind them. The graphics are excellent, especially when exploring the open world, which is huge, bigger than both oblivion and fallout. Quests vary in length, and are far easier to find than in previous games. Every detail has been considered, every pillar of the game is solid, combat is rewarding, the world is vibrant and interesting, the monsters, locations and quests are all varied and interesting, and the enemies scale just enough so its not too hard or too easy, but you still feel powerful at higher levels.The sheer number of quests and locations is mind boggling, Ive been playing for at least 30 hours and there is still so much to do! If your an RPG fan, then this game is the definition of the genre.… Expand
  66. nexusmind
    Nov 20, 2011
    9
    Skyrim may not be a quantum leap forward for Bethesda, but they've mastered their own unique open world rpg formula and this game delivers the best experience yet. The number of locations and variety of interesting things to do in them is truly staggering. Every few minutes you'll find yourself enjoying a new epic vista, each more amazing than the last. It isn't perfect; theSkyrim may not be a quantum leap forward for Bethesda, but they've mastered their own unique open world rpg formula and this game delivers the best experience yet. The number of locations and variety of interesting things to do in them is truly staggering. Every few minutes you'll find yourself enjoying a new epic vista, each more amazing than the last. It isn't perfect; the hand-to-hand combat still feels a bit unresponsive and the AI pathfinding is still easy to exploit, but these are miniscule issues in the face of how much fun this title is. Now if you'll excuse me, I've got some trolls to torch, bandits to decapitate, and... volumes on Dwemer history to read.… Expand
  67. damdevildog
    Nov 12, 2011
    10
    OK! What can i say about this masterpiece that Bethesda has given us that already has not been said. Well from my perspective the game isn't perfect, (and no game ever will be just like people) but it absolutely NOT matched, but exceeded my expectations! And that folks is a VERY rare thing indeed! Albeit said that i have seen a couple of minor glitches, one example is where i killed twoOK! What can i say about this masterpiece that Bethesda has given us that already has not been said. Well from my perspective the game isn't perfect, (and no game ever will be just like people) but it absolutely NOT matched, but exceeded my expectations! And that folks is a VERY rare thing indeed! Albeit said that i have seen a couple of minor glitches, one example is where i killed two bandits only to come back a couple hours later to find the gear i left on the ground levitating about 3 to 4 feet in the air, HEHE! But hey in a game this massive that's chicken sh!t, This game is absolutely amazing! I am now about 40 or more hours into it and i will absolutely say with confidence that this is the most amazing "GAME" not RPG but game ever made period. If you are a gamer you MUST own this game, and newcomers be patient this game is in no rush so either should you be, believe me the rewards will start flowing from the game before you know it. God bless the true artistic gifts we receive from time to time in this life, AMAZING!… Expand
  68. markb1166
    Nov 24, 2011
    10
    Any game that can make you want to be a master blacksmith deserves a ten. The hours I have lost on this! There are glitches in the game but they make it funny to find them in summary another classic Elder Scrolls game.
  69. LewisJDC
    Nov 18, 2011
    9
    I want to start this review by taking you back to Oblivion. I played the game on the Xbox 360 and was amazed, stunned, overwhelmed by how deep the game was, by the way that the game world evolved around the player, and how i could be sucked in, just walking around a settlement, watching people live their day to day lives. This was by far the greatest RPG that i had seen or played. TheI want to start this review by taking you back to Oblivion. I played the game on the Xbox 360 and was amazed, stunned, overwhelmed by how deep the game was, by the way that the game world evolved around the player, and how i could be sucked in, just walking around a settlement, watching people live their day to day lives. This was by far the greatest RPG that i had seen or played. The operative word in that sentence being 'was'. Skyrim. The new name on everybody's lips. After Bethesda's last 3 RPG games were solid gold, Skyrim carried great promise. Has it lived up to this promise? Oh yes. Without a shadow of a doubt. The depth of gameplay i experienced in oblivion was back, with a vengeance. The ability to mine precious metals, chop wood, craft weapons, its all there. It all adds to the depth of the world. Spending days working, then going back to your home which you bought, to your wife whom you married, and cooking a meal with the ingredients you harvested. But enough of that. The main quest is comprised of some nice battles against dragons, and the usual Travel to A and clear it of enemies before returning to B with an artifact. This is one of my only criticisms of the game. It would be nice to see some more variety, but this hardly affects the score, because the way that they are presented, and the will the player has to level up are easily enough to make you want to check out every inch of a cavern, to find more loot, and to fight more enemies. The perk system is a little different to fallout, where you have different areas to gain perks in, and they are more progressive than Fallout's, which seem somewhat removed at times, but they feel natural to the progression of the character. So its all good so far for the folks at Bethesda, but the negatives to the game. Yes there are a few, but they are more along the lines of fly in the ointment, rather than worm in the apple. Primarily, the frame rate has some serious issues at times, dropping to a painfully low level where the camera jerks around, and all there is to do is swing your sword blindly or cast a spell in any direction and hope you kill whats in front of you. Secondly, you can enchant items, and create potions, but you cant create your own spells like you could in oblivion, which gave the feel of real purpose to leveling up your magic abilities. I was gutted to find out that. No spell to open any door can be crafted, no charm of invisibility, they must all be found or learned in the game. But despite these minor errors which sadly take the game down to merely being excellent instead of perfect are not nearly enough to stop any gamer who likes RPGs and has half a brain buying it. Is AWSOME!… Expand
  70. DuskHarlekin
    Nov 24, 2011
    10
    Saw LivebytheSword's review and had to give this game a 10 to balance out the bad reviews. Who happens to hate video games and I guess life and doesn't get how the user review system works.
  71. konda210
    Nov 26, 2011
    10
    Just too epic for its own good. Easily, hands down GOTY and then some. Even the score gets in your brain. Wow. Bethesda I was starting to doubt with a so-so New Vegas IMHO. Skyrim just does everything right - well maybe a rare crazy-overpowered Dramora throwing fireballs at me. Other than that, WOW. Okay enough time posting this review. Back to Skyrim. Totally addicted. You willJust too epic for its own good. Easily, hands down GOTY and then some. Even the score gets in your brain. Wow. Bethesda I was starting to doubt with a so-so New Vegas IMHO. Skyrim just does everything right - well maybe a rare crazy-overpowered Dramora throwing fireballs at me. Other than that, WOW. Okay enough time posting this review. Back to Skyrim. Totally addicted. You will be too. You'll see.… Expand
  72. niko_xr
    Nov 11, 2011
    10
    One of the best games i´ve played, a true masterpiece of everything from gameplay to music also the universe is just spectacular, and the dragon fights are incredible finally the elder scrolls get a decent boss fight, totally recommended and an important candidate to GOTY.
  73. wastelander75
    Nov 25, 2011
    10
    Absolutely fantastic game. I love the audio score here. It has that sort of viking-ish "classic thunder" when you're in battle, or level up, or find a word of power, great great stuff there. My only gripe is that is does have a few very small bugs from time to time (i.e. NPC's holding invisible cups, people sitting on thin air instead of the chair that's about 2 feet away, etc), butAbsolutely fantastic game. I love the audio score here. It has that sort of viking-ish "classic thunder" when you're in battle, or level up, or find a word of power, great great stuff there. My only gripe is that is does have a few very small bugs from time to time (i.e. NPC's holding invisible cups, people sitting on thin air instead of the chair that's about 2 feet away, etc), but considering how buggy and glitchy that previous Bethesda/Gamebryo Engine games have been (more specifically Fallout New Vegas), that's a minor flaw in an otherwise perfectly cut diamond of a game.… Expand
  74. DrNegative
    Nov 28, 2011
    10
    This is easily one of the greatest RPGs I have ever played. The fantasy world is so convincing and immersive that minutes in real life turn into hours it seems. The story, play-control, music, trade-skills, and NPC interaction are all well done. This now sets the bar for what I now expect when I pay $50-60 for a game. I have put enough hours into it to already beat most games twice by now,This is easily one of the greatest RPGs I have ever played. The fantasy world is so convincing and immersive that minutes in real life turn into hours it seems. The story, play-control, music, trade-skills, and NPC interaction are all well done. This now sets the bar for what I now expect when I pay $50-60 for a game. I have put enough hours into it to already beat most games twice by now, yet I have barely begun to scratch the surface.

    10/10    … Expand
  75. foolx
    Nov 16, 2011
    10
    I already spend 20+ hours in this fantastic world an i am amazed! The world feels real, its simply the best RPG i ever played. Hopefully the little Bugs here and there will get fixed soon, but even WITH those Bugs, the Game is simply wonderful!
  76. bud389
    Nov 11, 2011
    9
    I've been waiting for skyrim for about a year now, and so far it's an amazing game, theres great dungeon design, great combat mechanics, cool magic effects and weapons and lots of enemies and items to use and find. I also like the enhanced graphics and engine and increased interactivity. The increase in voice actors is also another great thing. But one thing that pisses me off, is thatI've been waiting for skyrim for about a year now, and so far it's an amazing game, theres great dungeon design, great combat mechanics, cool magic effects and weapons and lots of enemies and items to use and find. I also like the enhanced graphics and engine and increased interactivity. The increase in voice actors is also another great thing. But one thing that pisses me off, is that the balancing consistency is **** retarded. I was level 7, and i just finished the mission where me and some other guards kill a dragon, it doesn't take that long, one of two of them die, no big deal, it was rather easy. Ok, now fast forward fifteen minutes and guess what, i run into a dragon randomly, but this time, I DIE IN UNDER A **** MINUTE... It baffles me. Apart from that and a few glitches i found, it's a great game, it's atmosphere and combat is certainly the best in the series.… Expand
  77. Dorby5826and360
    Nov 21, 2011
    10
    First Elder Scrolls game I have ever played was Morrowind. I immediately fell in love with the series and even went back and played the first two, which of course are dated, but are fun none the lease. Oblivion came out afterwards and again I could not stop playing it. Heck I even played it until Skyrim came out. When Skyrim was announced I was full of joy. So I immediately pre-ordered theFirst Elder Scrolls game I have ever played was Morrowind. I immediately fell in love with the series and even went back and played the first two, which of course are dated, but are fun none the lease. Oblivion came out afterwards and again I could not stop playing it. Heck I even played it until Skyrim came out. When Skyrim was announced I was full of joy. So I immediately pre-ordered the game and payed it off. Went to the midnight release and played it right when I got home. I was blown away. Bethesda did not disappoint. Almost everything that Bethesda promised was true. From their promise that the game was going to have the feeling of exploration like Morrowind to the promise that the dragons are going to be an addition that will work great even though the attacks are almost always random. It is hard to explain Skyrim in words so I will try my best. Skyrim takes place 200 years after the events of Oblivion and now Dragons are returning as was prophesied in the Elder Scrolls. You start the game as a prisoner as every other game in the series. You are about to be executed when a dragon attacks the village in which you are in. You manage to escape and are tasked with going to the nearest city ( I am leaving ALOT out so I do not spoil to much). When at the city you find out that a dragon is about to attack so you go outside near a watchtower joined with a bunch of soldiers of the city. The dragon does appear and when you finally kill it, the dragons souls is absorbed into you. You then find out that you are the Dragonborn the prophesied destroyer of the dragons. Gameplay in Skyrim is a bit different and complex compared to Oblivion, but still fun to use. This time around combat is more timing based. Unlike Oblivion where when you are blocking and the enemy attacks he recoils, on Skyrim when blocking it reduces damage( same as Oblivion), but the enemy does not recoil. You do a shield bash instead that makes the enemy stagger. When the enemy staggers they are open to attack. Many time if an enemy is in the middle of attacking you, you can do a shield bash to cancel out their attack then you can attack. The skill system on Skyrim is a mixture of Oblivion and Fallout 3. There is no longer attributes like endurance instead the skill increase depending on your play style. If you are a person who like to use one handed weapons and destruction spells the more those skills increase making you strong with those abilities. When you level up choose what to increase first, be it Magika, Health, or Stanima. After you are finished with that you will be given a perk point to use on perks that are able to be added for the skills that you like to use. Just a message to new comers of the series. I would recommend starting out with Oblivion first. There are a few bugs in the game like when a giant kills you your body will fly into the air (very entertaining though) and getting stuck in the environment. There is a bug on the Xbox 360 version that if you install the game some textures will not load in entirely. But other than that Skyrim is one of the best, if not the best Elder Scrolls to date.… Expand
  78. twizbuck
    Dec 8, 2011
    10
    One of my favorite games ever. The gameplay, the scenery, the interactivity, all fantastic. Endless quests and dragons galore plus the sporadic quest system just add to the incredible design. Yes, it has some bugs, but it's not nearly enough to make me stop playing. A must play.
  79. PlasmaPrestige
    Nov 27, 2011
    10
    Skyrim isn't a perfect game by any means, but it is one of the best role playing games ever created, and definitely the most detailed and graphically impressive. The main storyline is intriguing, but it is the typical hero with a destiny to save the land type of scheme, but what it lacks in originality it makes up in voice acting and pacing. What's more impressive about Skyrim is theSkyrim isn't a perfect game by any means, but it is one of the best role playing games ever created, and definitely the most detailed and graphically impressive. The main storyline is intriguing, but it is the typical hero with a destiny to save the land type of scheme, but what it lacks in originality it makes up in voice acting and pacing. What's more impressive about Skyrim is the plethora of quality side quests. This is the first RPG I've played where the side quests don't seem like a complete chore and are actually worth doing. The combat has been vamped up from Oblivion, and exploration is rewarded tremendously. If you're a fan of RPGs, then this game is a must-buy; if you're looking to kill massive amounts of time at once and lose the next five weekends, then it is also a must-buy. Even if you did not like Oblivion, like myself, this game is a good choice. However, if you despise fantasy or dislike RPGs, Skyrim likely won't change your mind, although the leveling system makes a ton of sense since you get better at what you love doing.
    Undoubtedly one of the best games this generation.    … Expand
  80. pawno
    Nov 15, 2011
    10
    I've been a gamer for over 20 years and this is easily the best RPG I've ever played (and I've played lots). The amount of work Bethesda has put in to create the world of Skyrim is mind boggling. When you find yourself spending the best part of an hour reading books IN THE GAME you know its something special.

    I could write 10,000 words on why this game is the best of year, and arguably    I've been a gamer for over 20 years and this is easily the best RPG I've ever played (and I've played lots). The amount of work Bethesda has put in to create the world of Skyrim is mind boggling. When you find yourself spending the best part of an hour reading books IN THE GAME you know its something special.

    I could write 10,000 words on why this game is the best of year, and arguably of this generation, but my time is better spent adventuring in Skyrim.    … Expand
  81. sicvita
    Nov 11, 2011
    10
    For the history books, Skyrim should stand as the unchallenged high water mark of this console generations' RPG genre. Today's RPG aficionados will not see a more in-depth and beautiful product until a whole new generation of gaming hardware comes along. All gamers, RPG inclined or not, should seize the moment by diving into Skyrim head first; it is Bethesda's most approachable andFor the history books, Skyrim should stand as the unchallenged high water mark of this console generations' RPG genre. Today's RPG aficionados will not see a more in-depth and beautiful product until a whole new generation of gaming hardware comes along. All gamers, RPG inclined or not, should seize the moment by diving into Skyrim head first; it is Bethesda's most approachable and enjoyable creation to date.… Expand
  82. ILFM
    Nov 20, 2011
    10
    This game has endless content, gorgeous graphics, unscripted dragons, over a hundred spells, dual wielding, a giant map that extends forever, live characters, people that react to every last thing you do. (Ex I had fire spell in my hand, little girl says it's bad to play with fire mister, or I had a dragon sword in my hand, little boy said I like you're sword sir. or I drop stuff in theThis game has endless content, gorgeous graphics, unscripted dragons, over a hundred spells, dual wielding, a giant map that extends forever, live characters, people that react to every last thing you do. (Ex I had fire spell in my hand, little girl says it's bad to play with fire mister, or I had a dragon sword in my hand, little boy said I like you're sword sir. or I drop stuff in the streets and people fight over it, trying to take it)

    Endless quests, epic weapons, amazing music, many places to live, get married, tons of factions, kill animations, crafting, alchemy, enchanting, smelting, mining, wood chopping, tanning, smelting, sharpening, the world is so beyond alive it's crazy. Everything is so amazing, it's the most beautiful hand crafted world I have ever seen. Skyrim is nothing short of a master piece, and Bethesda earns every amount of praise they get. Game of the year, best game of all time.    … Expand
  83. ReviewerMan44
    Nov 21, 2011
    10
    The new standard in how to make a role-playing game is here. For fans of RPG's, big adventures, or just great games, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is sure to please. Offering up more game than one knows what to do with, Skyrim boasts what may be the largest and most detailed world to date. Everything about the game is perfect or near perfect. From the winding story that takes very cleverThe new standard in how to make a role-playing game is here. For fans of RPG's, big adventures, or just great games, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is sure to please. Offering up more game than one knows what to do with, Skyrim boasts what may be the largest and most detailed world to date. Everything about the game is perfect or near perfect. From the winding story that takes very clever twists and turns, to the up to date and beautiful visuals and audio, the redone combat and inventory system, and a world so brass and fun its easy to get lost in for days if not weeks. Alas we come to the one uhh ohh in the game. The glitches. The same problem that has plagued various other Bethesda games are still here although I'm finding much less than say Fallout 3 had, nothing gamebreaking or going to drop this game down to a 9, but just minor glitches and hickupps. Overall if your looking for a new single player game to spoil your time with, The Elder Scrolls has returned and everything about this new entry is bound to please.… Expand
  84. bighead6000
    Nov 22, 2011
    10
    Overall, This game is one of the most content packed, breathtaking, and superb games i have ever played. This game is much more improved and better than Oblivion, and I thought Oblivion was one of the best games ever released. The story mode, game world, and combat system is amazing, and it is obvious that the guys over at Bethesda have really put their time and effort into this. TheyOverall, This game is one of the most content packed, breathtaking, and superb games i have ever played. This game is much more improved and better than Oblivion, and I thought Oblivion was one of the best games ever released. The story mode, game world, and combat system is amazing, and it is obvious that the guys over at Bethesda have really put their time and effort into this. They don't care about money when it comes to the Elder Scrolls series, they care about the quality of the game, and how people think of it, and I really praise them for that. You will be playing this game for a countless number of hours, and it will always be exciting when you find a new cave, a new dungeon, or a new word wall. If you don't mind taking at least a couple of hundred hours out of your life, you will find that Skyrim will be one of the most amazing games you will ever play.… Expand
  85. Hensch2475
    Nov 19, 2011
    10
    a incredible achievement for video games. The most value you will ever get out of a 60$ video game, you will play this game for 100+ hours. I have played Elder Scrolls since Morrowind and have loved them all, but Skyrim is on a different level. The world is so engaging, I've sat down planning to play for an hour to end up playing for 5 hours. Everyone should try this game to see howa incredible achievement for video games. The most value you will ever get out of a 60$ video game, you will play this game for 100+ hours. I have played Elder Scrolls since Morrowind and have loved them all, but Skyrim is on a different level. The world is so engaging, I've sat down planning to play for an hour to end up playing for 5 hours. Everyone should try this game to see how good video games can be.… Expand
  86. Jman4
    Nov 11, 2011
    10
    This game is like a mixture of the detailed graphics and sprawling environments of Red Dead Redemption, the fantasy story line and RPG elements of Dragon Age: Origins and the gameplay mechanics and functions of Fallout 3. By far, one of the best games I have ever played. Unlimited content and incredible gameplay, matched with the astonishing graphics and fascinating story line, make forThis game is like a mixture of the detailed graphics and sprawling environments of Red Dead Redemption, the fantasy story line and RPG elements of Dragon Age: Origins and the gameplay mechanics and functions of Fallout 3. By far, one of the best games I have ever played. Unlimited content and incredible gameplay, matched with the astonishing graphics and fascinating story line, make for one of the best games of all time.… Expand
  87. ShadowEXP
    Nov 12, 2011
    10
    Love love LOVE this game. Its just so good. I read a comment saying it just fallout with swords and dragons.
    Yea with a handcrafted world to explore not just a desert. What can i say? In MY OPINION.
    Better than MORROWIND and OBLIVION. If you love free roaming games and like exploring vast lands.
    GET THIS GAME. No better yet if you have a 360,PC or a PS3 GET THIS GAME.
  88. evil_almighty
    Nov 12, 2011
    10
    This game is absolutely stunning, surpassing even my high expectations. yes there are bugs and glitches but what everyone seems to forget is the CAN BE PATCHED. Nothing game breaking for me so far and I'm sure there never will be anything that could break this game for me. The soundtrack is amazing, atmospheric, epic when it needs to be but peaceful as well. The AI is a huge step up fromThis game is absolutely stunning, surpassing even my high expectations. yes there are bugs and glitches but what everyone seems to forget is the CAN BE PATCHED. Nothing game breaking for me so far and I'm sure there never will be anything that could break this game for me. The soundtrack is amazing, atmospheric, epic when it needs to be but peaceful as well. The AI is a huge step up from Oblivion and really makes you feel like you are part of a living breathing world. On the subject of the world, it really is beautiful and varied, each city has it's own feeling, from the seedy town of Ritfen to the hilltop city of Whiterun, unlike the bland environments of Oblivion, there is always something happening, if you want to go hunting for leather to make armor and meat to cook, you can and it wont be a waste of time. If you walk up a road for 10 minutes you will no doubt have many encounters, from imperial soldiers taking a stomcloak prisoner to his execution, to an assassin trying to kill you or even a traveling bard looking to write a song about the civil war.

    The combat in this game is a big overhaul from oblivion and it now feels like the weapons you wield were made to do some damage, not just swing at a creature until the game decides its health is depleted and its dead. Furthermore unlike Oblivion where enemies would level up with you they now have a set level, if you are level 20 and you see a bandit, they will be wearing low class armor and will die in 1 hit from your mighty (insert weapon/spell here). If you try to take on a giant at level 2 then...well there are plenty of videos on youtube to show the consequences but its a bit one sided.

    There is so much to do in Skyrim that I cant see anyone getting bored of it anytime soon. There has already been plenty of those moments where I look across a landscape or at a town community and think...wow, this was well worth the wait.

    If you have never played an Elder Scrolls game before, or even an RPG, this is a perfect opportunity to start. If you have and are on the verge of buying it, get off the verge, into the game shop and buy it, you will NOT be disappointed. (NOTE, on 360 do not currently install it to your hard drive (as of 11.11.11) because currently if you do so the game will have low res textures, if this really doesn't bother you then go ahead but I would personally wait for a patch).    … Expand
  89. SmileyFrank
    Dec 12, 2011
    10
    Amazing game! Defiantly buy this game, one of the best games I've ever played! If you like oblivion or the other games, you'll LOVE this game. This is a truly amazing rpg.
  90. Junkboat
    Nov 23, 2011
    10
    There is no way to describe this game other than it is the best I have ever played. It is on a level of its own, with no equal. Not once has any of its glitches detracted from my experience. That said, the negative reviews are made only by butt-sore fanboys, multiplayer-dependent pseudo-socialites, pretentious snobs who think any game released since 2000 is garbage, or people who haveThere is no way to describe this game other than it is the best I have ever played. It is on a level of its own, with no equal. Not once has any of its glitches detracted from my experience. That said, the negative reviews are made only by butt-sore fanboys, multiplayer-dependent pseudo-socialites, pretentious snobs who think any game released since 2000 is garbage, or people who have no clue about how the world or bad computers work (hint: they don't). Just remember, basement-dwelling 'Holier-Than-Thou's: With great frozen pizza, comes great oven.… Expand
  91. ZomB
    Nov 15, 2011
    10
    Finally a game lives up to its own hype. Take a bow Bethesda for creating one of the most enjoyable & most immersive games i have ever played! This game also represents serious value for money for the amount of playtime you can get out of it. GOTY without a doubt. Those 'other' games i bought recently aren't getting a look in!
  92. GentlemanRick
    Nov 17, 2011
    7
    Lets just say this is a definet upgrade from Oblivion. Graphics are way better, offers more goodies than before like creating and upgrading armor, and just overall addicting. This right here will be most likely game of the year ladies and gentlemen.
  93. zenmechanic
    Nov 14, 2011
    9
    There are some bugs, visual and audio. There are some weak story elements. This all pales in comparison to the fun I am having playing it. I find it much more engrossing than oblivion. My only wish is that they had licensed the 'rage' engine to render this awesome game, instead of falling back to a modified Fallout 3 engine.
  94. timn17
    Nov 21, 2011
    10
    get it. trust me. it absolutely destroyed my expectations, and made me feel stupid for having any doubts. get it now. have a large meal and say goodbye to your loved ones first though.

    tip: if you are intimidated by having complete freedom of choice and no hand holding in a game - where you can really just walk around and do whatever the hell you want, then do not get this game. i know    get it. trust me. it absolutely destroyed my expectations, and made me feel stupid for having any doubts. get it now. have a large meal and say goodbye to your loved ones first though.

    tip: if you are intimidated by having complete freedom of choice and no hand holding in a game - where you can really just walk around and do whatever the hell you want, then do not get this game. i know that sounds stupid, but the level of freedom and the sheer amount of detail and things to do overwhelm me, and I love this type of game.    … Expand
  95. DeSelle
    Nov 21, 2011
    9
    I'm a bit surprised by the number of negative reviews. The game is impressive due to it's size alone. I've played about 50 hours and I feel like I've only scratched the surface of the game. This is of course a game in the line of Oblivion and Fallout so it has the same shortcomings (some bugged quests, some odd things happening, ...) but is doesn't take away that this is a great andI'm a bit surprised by the number of negative reviews. The game is impressive due to it's size alone. I've played about 50 hours and I feel like I've only scratched the surface of the game. This is of course a game in the line of Oblivion and Fallout so it has the same shortcomings (some bugged quests, some odd things happening, ...) but is doesn't take away that this is a great and involving game in a rich and credible world. Personal best RPG for 2011. Dark souls is also great but after a hard day of work I prefer a relaxing game.… Expand
  96. crazydangerous
    Nov 23, 2011
    8
    Honestly besides being rocketed to the moon every time a giant hits me and mild annoyance climbing mountains this games pretty great. Just be prepared to commit some time to it you'll be stuck with it for 30ish hours.
  97. Freshbite
    Nov 22, 2011
    9
    All the way through, this game does not let you go one bit. The story is great, music and graphics are amazing, the setting is incredible (and as a Scandinavian, it feels really close to home). However, a few bugs and problems with the NPC interaction briefly scrapes the top layer off of a "Perfect Ten". Even so, this game is one of the best games I've played through my entire life and IAll the way through, this game does not let you go one bit. The story is great, music and graphics are amazing, the setting is incredible (and as a Scandinavian, it feels really close to home). However, a few bugs and problems with the NPC interaction briefly scrapes the top layer off of a "Perfect Ten". Even so, this game is one of the best games I've played through my entire life and I would recommend to anyone who has time on their hands, and isn't afraid to give up their grades. Fah zin ahrk moron, dovah kiir. For honor and glory, dragon children.… Expand
  98. realdealadkins
    Nov 21, 2011
    10
    It has happened,yes it has.This is the game we have all been waiting for ,for countless years.It's a game without a flaw ,a game that is fun and addictingly so to be lost in for many hours.A powerful powerhouse of a game.Wait,a game no,an experience yes a drug most certainly.An obsession that you think about all day at work to come home and experience some more.This is the first video gameIt has happened,yes it has.This is the game we have all been waiting for ,for countless years.It's a game without a flaw ,a game that is fun and addictingly so to be lost in for many hours.A powerful powerhouse of a game.Wait,a game no,an experience yes a drug most certainly.An obsession that you think about all day at work to come home and experience some more.This is the first video game that your mind can't differentiate between a drug and a game.That hasn't happened sense tetris came out in the 80's.A masterpiece of an obtuse game industry.This is not to be missed no matter what your game style,preference,system.Get a 360 or a PS3 and grab this game now.Play it,experience it,cherish it,dream about it make your story and live your alternate life it will most likely make you forget about this life!… Expand
  99. Peajay80
    Nov 19, 2011
    10
    Wow what a game. Took a week off work to play this and feel like a month wouldn't have been enough. An amazing world in which i have completely lost myself. Bethesda have produced not only the game of the year, but in my opinion the best RPG ever made.
  100. gerbronicus
    Nov 24, 2011
    9
    Picked up this game a week ago for the PS3. Graphics: Not very impressive, but my expectations weren't too great. The texture details in the environment are lacking, but character models and details on the weapons look pretty good. Also, distance in which you can see is pretty impressive. Story: I found myself actually interested in the story, even though there is very little emotionalPicked up this game a week ago for the PS3. Graphics: Not very impressive, but my expectations weren't too great. The texture details in the environment are lacking, but character models and details on the weapons look pretty good. Also, distance in which you can see is pretty impressive. Story: I found myself actually interested in the story, even though there is very little emotional connection to any characters. Gameplay: Battling feels right, and deflecting a blow with your shield is awesome, as is the "Fallout 3-like" final kill animations. So many things to do in this game. It is borderline overwhelming with all the stuff you can do, and it is awesome. Finished the main quest line, but still having an awesome time playing the game.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

1
#1 Best Xbox 360 Game of 2011
2
#2 Most Discussed Xbox 360 Game of 2011
1
#1 Most Shared Xbox 360 Game of 2011

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
96

Universal acclaim - based on 89 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 89 out of 89
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 89
  3. Negative: 0 out of 89
  1. Gamer.no
    Feb 6, 2012
    100
    This epic role-playing game might be Bethesda's best game yet, and offers an unique and spectacular world filled with fun. The freedom ensures a great experience for both the casual and hardcore gamer, as you're free to play the game how you like.
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  2. GameFocus
    Dec 16, 2011
    97
    Skyrim is the largest, and most compelling work that I've had the opportunity to play this year. It's engaging, engrossing, and will take over your gaming life for many months to come. Not only is Skyrim among the best that 2011 has to offer, but for me, this is, without hesitation, the Game of the Year.
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  3. Cynamite
    Dec 16, 2011
    90
    Quotation forthcoming.
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