Markarth and Greymoor join The Elder Scrolls Online base game for free

ZeniMax Online made the Markarth add-on free for all players on November 9, completing the base game integration of the entire Skyrim storyline. The Greymoor chapter and Wolfhunter dungeons moved into the base game in October during the start of season two, titled Echoes of Skyrim.

The Elder Scrolls Online · official art via IGDB

Alongside the base game update, the Return to Western Skyrim campaign runs from November 9 until December 2, 2026 at 10 AM ET. Players can earn milestone rewards by completing activities in Western Skyrim and Blackreach, such as using the Antiquities system, reading lore books, and defeating bosses. Rewards include 10,000 gold, the Sea of Ghosts Coral Crab pet at 20 completed activities, and the Sea of Ghosts Coral Wolf mount at 30 activities.

ZeniMax Online shifted to a seasonal model where main content is free, funded by the Tamriel Tomes battle pass. The studio experienced staffing changes in the summer during Xbox layoffs, losing 213 employees including former studio head Joe Burba. Nick Giacomini took over leadership, pushing the combat and class overhaul and Update 52 to 2027 while keeping development active.