Elder Scrolls Online Preorder Bonus Removes a Character Creation Restriction

As with the PC version last year, those who preorder The Elder Scrolls Online for Xbox One or PS4 will receive the Explorer's Pack, a bonus that provides some in-game content and gives you more flexibility when creating a character.

The Explorer's Pack, available with digital and physical preorders, consists of three parts: bonus treasure maps, a vanity pet named Warty, and the ability to play as any race, regardless of your alliance.

That last part is arguably the most important. When you choose from the three alliances--Ebonheart Pact, Daggerfall Covenant, and Aldmeri Dominion--it restricts what races you're allowed to choose from. Of the nine total races, only three are available to each alliance. These races represent not only significant cosmetic differences, but each also has its own unique bonuses.

This can be problematic if you want to join the same alliance as a friend, but you each want to play as races from different alliances. With the Explorer's Pack, this isn't a problem--assuming you preorder. If the PC version is any indication, the Explorer's Pack won't be sold separately. We've asked Bethesda if there will be any way to avoid the race restriction in the future, and will report back with anything we learn.

Following a series of delays and a shift to a new name and subscription-less business model, The Elder Scrolls Online: Tamriel Unlimited is set for release on June 9.