10 Incredible Video Games That Were Awful At Launch

Elder Scrolls Online, like so many massively multiplayer worlds before it, got off to a cripplingly embarrassing start, but the early discovery of a gold duping glitch was the least of its problems.

Besides its in-game economy going to hell in a handbasket mere weeks after launch, a handful of questionable design decisions had left those looking for the ultimate Elder Scrolls experience questioning its longevity, or lack thereof. The 'Phasing' system, one meant to alleviate the stress of rendering so many assets in the overworld at once, made participating in group content a genuine nightmare, with critical NPCs and/or objectives appearing in different locations for each party member or flat-out disappearing entirely.

Sprinkle on a premium subscription model and an endgame progression system that made grinding a whetstone look like an appetizing pastime and, well, Elder Scrolls Online left much to be desired.

Thankfully, ZeniMax wasted no time in ironing out all of the above launch issues, scrapping the monthly fee (it's now optional), and completely reworking character progression. With several expansions under its belt and player counts holding steady, Elder Scrolls Online is a rare example of an MMO that didn't crash and burn in its first year of service.

Bravo.