Optimal Combat Settings for The Elder Scrolls Online

We're going to look at the most optimal combat settings you can use in The Elder Scrolls Online. These are the settings I personally use, and they've helped me in trials and PvP situations. Hopefully, they help you too.

Graphics Settings

To ensure the best performance:

- Performance Mode: Switch from Fidelity to Performance mode for smoother framerates during combat. Fidelity mode may look better but affects performance.

- Brightness: Adjust based on your personal preference. A brighter setting helps in dark areas like dungeons or PvP zones where visibility is critical.

- Adjust Your Screen: Reduce the screen bounds as much as possible, bringing the HUD closer to the center. This lets you see more of the game world and gives you an edge, especially in PvP or trials.

- Custom Scale: Optional. I leave this off, but feel free to adjust if it suits your preference.

Audio Settings

Proper audio settings can enhance your focus and awareness:

- NPC and Video Subtitles: Keep these on to catch important dialogue cues in trials or quests.

- Master Volume: Set high enough to hear mechanics and sound effects clearly.

- Music: Turn off to minimize distractions. Background music isn’t necessary for combat performance.

- Sound Effects Volume: Keep this high for skill and mechanic audio cues.

- Dialog Volume: Set to a noticeable level to hear voice lines that signal upcoming mechanics.

- Footstep Volume: Keep high for PvP awareness, allowing you to hear nearby enemies.

- Combat Music: Turn off, as it can be distracting during high-pressure situations.

Gameplay Settings

Optimize gameplay responsiveness:
- Vibration: Enable for tactile feedback during mechanics or damage events.

- Combat Cues: Turn on to highlight enemy and friendly areas of effect (AoEs). Use custom colors for clarity: Green for friendly (e.g., heals), Red for enemy AoEs. Set brightness to maximum for better visibility.

- Quick Cast Ground Abilities: Enable to cast ground-targeted skills instantly without requiring an extra button press.

- Screen Shake: Turn off to reduce distractions during combat. It’s easier to focus without unnecessary visual effects.

- Camera Sensitivity: Set to maximum for quicker movement and targeting, especially useful in PvP.

Combat Settings

Combat-specific adjustments to improve clarity and efficiency:

- Ability Bar: Set to "Always Show" to keep track of skill cooldowns and ultimate readiness.

- Combat Tips: Enable to get on-screen prompts during mechanics.

- Ultimate Number: Turn on to monitor ultimate resource build-up.

- Combat Text: Enable to display damage, healing, and other key information. However, if it feels overwhelming, you can turn it off.

- Buffs and Debuffs: Set to "Always Show" to monitor active buffs (e.g., Minor Slayer) and adjust positioning if something is missing.

Camera Settings

Adjust for better situational awareness:

- Third-Person Field of View: Maximize to see as much of your surroundings as possible.

- Head Bob: Minimize for smoother gameplay.

- Positioning: Center the camera to evenly view both sides of your character.

Interface and Social Settings

Simplify the interface and reduce distractions:

- Display Names: Set to "Gamertag" for easier identification in group content.

- Weapon and Armor Indicators: Enable to get alerts when gear needs repairing or charging.

- Target Markers: Enable for clear identification of enemies in group content.

- Chat: Turn off during high-stakes trials or PvP to minimize distractions. Access it later via the pause menu.

Accessibility Settings

These settings cater to individual needs, but one universally helpful option is:

- Gamepad Assist: Enable for better targeting and navigation, especially on consoles.

By implementing these combat settings, you’ll optimize your performance in The Elder Scrolls Online. Whether it’s PvP or high-level trials, these adjustments will improve your awareness, DPS, and overall gameplay experience.