ESO's Second Wind: ZeniMax Pivots to Seasonal Overhauls After 2025 Setbacks

After losing a flagship project and a decade-plus developer, ZeniMax's ESO team is betting their future on a seasonal content gamble. Project Blackbird, ZeniMax's next major project, was cancelled by Microsoft in 2025, leading to layoffs and the departure of ESO director Matt Frior after 20 years.

The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO) is shifting to a seasonal content model for its 12-year-old game to improve agility and address long-standing player grievances. Executive producer Susan Kath states the team has "rallied" despite 2025's challenges:

Susan Kath said:

"Folks are excited about their work. I'm excited for them to be doing this. We're looking forward."

Game director Nick Giacomini calls the shift "a second wind":

Nick Giacomini said:

"We've definitely got our eyes on the future, because this is our home."

The studio plans further reveals in the coming months, with Kath noting "You could have gone longer!" feedback on the January 2025 update. Giacomini also mentioned the team's 30-year ambition for ESO's evolution.