What is Old Animation Cancelling in ESO?

A look back at the mechanics of old animation cancelling in The Elder Scrolls Online.

Understanding Old Animation Cancelling

Old animation cancelling in ESO was a mechanic that allowed players to interrupt the animations of their abilities, enabling them to cast abilities more quickly and efficiently. This technique was particularly popular among players looking to maximize their damage output, as it allowed for faster ability rotations and increased overall DPS.

The mechanic involved timing inputs perfectly so that the animation of one ability could be cancelled by another action, such as a light attack or another ability. This required precise timing and practice to master, as players had to be aware of the animation timings of their skills.

Changes to Animation Cancelling

Over time, the developers of ESO made adjustments to the game's mechanics, which included changes to how animation cancelling worked. These changes aimed to create a more balanced gameplay experience and reduce the reliance on this mechanic for high-level play. As a result, many players had to adapt their playstyles and find new ways to optimize their damage output without relying on old animation cancelling techniques.

Current State of Animation Cancelling

As of now, the game has evolved, and while some aspects of animation cancelling still exist, the mechanics have been refined. Players now focus on other techniques, such as light attack weaving, to maximize their damage. This shift reflects the ongoing development of ESO and the community's adaptation to new gameplay styles.