The Elder Scrolls VI: 10 Ways To Blow Skyrim Out Of The Water

4. Real-Time Only Mode

This is hardcore. The Elder Scrolls has always allowed us to freeze time when entering a menu, whether it be an objective check-in or inventory switch. What we've never been able to do is opt out of this paradoxical feature. The Elder Scrolls is all about deep gameplay mechanics and an engrossing open-world, but all of this feels artificial when we're forced to pause so often. Sure, a million decisions are made in these standstills €“ like potion drinking, enchanted item charging and book reading - but such improbable time exploitation takes the gut-wrench right out of split-second combat or dungeon sneaking. Not only does this negate the tension of forethought and proper strategy, but it unavoidably reminds us we€™re playing a video game. Hot-key favorites take some of the sting out of an otherwise demanding interface, but we want a menu system that keeps us connected to the world. Rifling through an impossible, Mary Poppins-esque bag might be a bit much, but a more immersive approach to managing ones inventory would be a nice change of pace from the traditionally text-focused menu screens.