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.
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim is an action-packed, open-world fantasy role-playing game. Players take on the role of the Dragonborn, a legendary hero with the power to absorb the souls of dragons and use their abilities. The game features a massive open world to explore, complete with a rich history, politics, and mythology.
- Engaging storyline
- Large open world to explore
- Complex character creation system
- High replayability
- Immersive open-world gameplay
- Rich storyline with complex characters
- Highly customizable characters
- Dynamic combat system
- Outdated graphics
- Steep learning curve
- Some quests can be frustratingly difficult
- Steep learning curve
- Some quests can be repetitive
- Graphics may appear dated
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 dataDaggerfall offers a massive, classic RPG experience with higher critic scores but dated graphics, while Skyrim provides a more modern, polished world with broader platform support.
Key differences
- •Release era: Daggerfall (1996) vs Skyrim (2011) – impacts graphics and UI.
- •Platform availability: Skyrim runs on PS3, Xbox 360, PC; Daggerfall only listed as PC.
- •Critic scores: Daggerfall 89/100 vs Skyrim 80/100.
- •Age rating: Daggerfall PEGI 16, Skyrim PEGI 18 – slight content difference.
- •Pricing info: Daggerfall is a known one‑time purchase; Skyrim price is unspecified.
Gameplay & fun factor
Daggerfall’s larger open world and complex skill system earn a higher critic score (89) versus Skyrim’s 80.
Platform availability
Skyrim ships on PS3, Xbox 360, and PC; Daggerfall only listed for PC.
Price & value
Daggerfall is a known one‑time paid title; Skyrim price is unknown, so no clear winner.
Multiplayer / co‑op
Both are single‑player only.
Content & replayability
Daggerfall’s massive world and many hidden areas give higher replay potential per critic feedback.
Difficulty & accessibility
Skyrim’s more modern UI and controls are generally easier for new players than Daggerfall’s steep learning curve.
Graphics & performance
Skyrim, released in 2011, has newer graphics than Daggerfall’s 1996 visuals.
Choose The Elder Scrolls II: Daggerfall if…
Fans of classic, deep RPG systems who prioritize world size and skill depth over graphics.
Choose The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim if…
Players wanting modern graphics, console support, and a more accessible experience.
Common questions
Which game is cheaper to buy?
Daggerfall is a known one‑time paid title; Skyrim’s price is listed as unknown, so cost cannot be compared.
Can I play either game on a console?
Skyrim is available on PS3 and Xbox 360; Daggerfall is only listed for PC.
Which title has better critical reception?
Daggerfall received a critic score of 89/100, higher than Skyrim’s 80/100.