The Elder Scrolls II: Daggerfall vs The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
The Elder Scrolls II: Daggerfall is an open-world, action role-playing game developed and published by Bethesda Softworks. Released in 1996, the game is set in the fantasy world of Tamriel, where players can explore the city of Daggerfall and its surrounding areas, completing quests and interacting with non-playable characters.
Skyrim is Bethesda’s landmark open-world RPG set in a Nordic fantasy province, known for its freeform exploration, dragon-shouting Dragonborn, and an enormous modding community that keeps it alive over a decade later.
Around $39.99 for the Anniversary/Special Edition.
- Engaging storyline
- Large open world to explore
- Complex character creation system
- High replayability
- Enormous freedom
- Best-in-class modding
- Great atmosphere and exploration
- Tons of content
- Outdated graphics
- Steep learning curve
- Some quests can be frustratingly difficult
- Dated combat and animations
- Bugs without mods
- Re-released many times
What reviewers say
The Elder Scrolls II: Daggerfall Reviews
No reviews yet.
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Reviews
4.0 (2)Love it
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim has been my go-to lately. Great atmosphere and exploration. No real complaints. Would recommend.
Good but flawed
Picked up The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim recently. Upside: enormous freedom. Downside: bugs without mods.
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The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataSkyrim (B) is the safer default for most players thanks to modern graphics, broad platform support, and extensive mod community, while Daggerfall (A) offers a larger, more complex world but with dated visuals and a steeper learning curve.
Key differences
- •Graphics & engine: Daggerfall (1996) has outdated graphics; Skyrim (2011) features modern visuals.
- •Mod support: Skyrim provides massive PC mod ecosystem; Daggerfall has limited modding.
- •Platform reach: Skyrim runs on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch; Daggerfall is PC‑only.
- •World scale & complexity: Daggerfall boasts a larger open world and deeper character creation; Skyrim offers a slightly smaller world but richer atmospheric design.
- •Combat feel: Skyrim’s combat is considered dated but smoother than Daggerfall’s older mechanics.
Gameplay & fun factor
Skyrim’s freeform exploration and side quests create a more engaging experience for modern players.
Platform availability
Skyrim is available on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Switch; Daggerfall is PC‑only.
Price & value
Skyrim’s $39.99 Anniversary/Special Edition offers extensive content and mods; Daggerfall is a one‑time paid title but older with less post‑launch support.
Multiplayer / co‑op
Both are single‑player experiences.
Content & replayability
Daggerfall’s massive world, complex skill system, and multiple faction paths give higher replay potential.
Difficulty & accessibility
Skyrim’s learning curve is gentler; Daggerfall is noted for a steep learning curve and tough quests.
Graphics & performance
Skyrim’s modern graphics outperform Daggerfall’s 1996 visuals.
Choose The Elder Scrolls II: Daggerfall if…
Players who crave deep character customization and a massive, challenging world, and can tolerate old graphics.
Choose The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim if…
Players who want modern visuals, broad platform options, and a thriving mod community.
Common questions
Which game offers better graphics?
Skyrim (B) has modern graphics; Daggerfall (A) uses outdated 1996 visuals.
Can I play the game on a console?
Skyrim (B) is available on PlayStation, Xbox, and Switch; Daggerfall (A) is PC‑only.
Which title has more community mods?
Skyrim (B) supports massive PC modding; Daggerfall (A) has limited mod support.