Few role-playing games have enjoyed the kind of staying power as The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, and Bethesda is celebrating that longevity today as the beloved RPG officially turns 15 years old.
Originally released on November 11, 2011, Skyrim has since become Bethesda Game Studios’ most-played game of all time, with its anniversary bringing a week of celebrations that includes giveaways, community spotlights, social media activities, and new content for players to purchase.
As part of the festivities, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Special Edition is currently available with discounts of up to 80% across all platforms, giving newcomers another opportunity to experience the RPG while longtime fans have a reason to revisit Tamriel. Bethesda is also introducing a new curated Creations Bundle featuring several community-made additions.
The anniversary bundle includes Legacy of Orsinum, a DLC-sized expansion, the custom-voiced follower Kaitryn Fair-Shadows, and Legendary Dungeons: Dwarven Delves, which brings locations from other Elder Scrolls games into Skyrim. The collection is available for purchase in-game on PC, Xbox, and PlayStation.
Bethesda is also marking the occasion with a sweepstakes offering fans the chance to win some exclusive memorabilia. The grand prize includes an original Skyrim strategy guide signed by Todd Howard and members of the Bethesda Game Studios team, alongside commemorative 15th anniversary posters and a custom Displate metal print. Details on how to enter are being shared through the official Bethesda Game Studios and The Elder Scrolls social media channels.
The celebrations extend beyond the original game, with The Elder Scrolls Online also joining in. ZeniMax Online Studios recently launched Season Two: Echoes of Skyrim, bringing the Greymoor Chapter into the base game for free. This includes familiar locations such as Solitude and Blackreach, the Antiquities system, and the Dark Heart of Skyrim storyline.
The Markarth DLC also became part of the The Elder Scrolls Online base game for free on November 9, adding the Reach zone and the conclusion to the Greymoor storyline. Players can additionally participate in a limited-time Golden Pursuit campaign, which offers Skyrim-themed rewards for exploring Western Skyrim through December 2.
Fifteen years after its original release, Skyrim continues to occupy an unusual place in gaming, remaining a major part of Bethesda’s lineup while attracting players through its many editions and community-driven additions. With a full week of anniversary activities planned, Bethesda clearly isn’t ready to let its most enduring RPG adventure fade into the past.