Is ESO set post or pre-Skyrim in the universe?

The Elder Scrolls Online is set in the timeline before the events of Skyrim.

Timeline Context

The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO) takes place approximately 1,000 years before the events of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. This places ESO in the Second Era, while Skyrim occurs in the Fourth Era. The timeline is crucial for understanding the lore and events that unfold in both games, as many characters and factions are introduced in ESO that play significant roles in Skyrim.

Lore Connections

Throughout ESO, players encounter various factions and characters that are pivotal to the lore of the Elder Scrolls series. For instance, the Thieves Guild and Dark Brotherhood, which are prominent in Skyrim, have their roots and stories explored in ESO. Additionally, the political landscape and conflicts that lead to the events of Skyrim are influenced by the happenings in ESO.

What Isn't Confirmed

While the timeline is established, specific events and their implications on Skyrim's storyline are often left open to interpretation. The connections between the two games are rich in lore, but players may find some details ambiguous or subject to further exploration in future content.

Where to Verify

For more detailed lore and timeline information, players can refer to the official Elder Scrolls Wiki or the UESP (Unofficial Elder Scrolls Pages) website, which provides extensive resources on the timeline and lore of the Elder Scrolls series.