Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind remains a benchmark for open‐world RPGs, offering unparalleled freedom in character development and exploration. From the moment you step off the boat in Seyda Neen, the world unfurls before you with countless quests, hidden dungeons, and factions vying for your allegiance. The Collector’s Edition is identical in its core mechanics to the original release, meaning you still enjoy the deep skill systems, branching dialogue trees, and emergent storytelling that Morrowind pioneered.

Combat in Morrowind is both rewarding and challenging. You quickly learn that preparation—equipping the right spells, potions, and weaponry—can mean life or death in the ash wastes of Vvardenfell. The game’s leveling system encourages experimentation, as allocating skill points increases proficiency in magic, melee, or stealth in tangible ways. While some modern gamers might find the combat less fluid compared to newer titles, the sense of accomplishment from mastering Morrowind’s systems is profound.

Exploration is the heart of the experience. The varied landscapes—from mushroom forests to volcanic peaks—are packed with lore, NPCs, and side quests that seldom feel recycled. The open‐ended structure allows you to ignore the main storyline in favor of guild quests, daedric shrines, or simply charting the island by foot. This freedom remains a defining feature of Morrowind’s gameplay, and it’s as compelling today as it was at launch.

Graphics

Visually, Morrowind is a product of its era but retains a distinct art direction that has aged gracefully. Character models and textures may appear dated compared to modern blockbusters, yet the alien architecture of Balmora and the haunting expanse of Red Mountain convey a richly realized world. The Collector’s Edition comes on DVD-ROM, ensuring minimal load times when traversing between distant locales.

The atmospheric use of color and environmental design is what truly sets Morrowind apart. Dusty lava fields, rolling hills dotted with giant mushrooms, and the gothic spires of Tel Mora all evoke an otherworldly feel that few modern titles attempt. Dynamic weather and day‐night cycles further enhance immersion, casting dramatic shadows through ancient temple ruins or illuminating ghostly apparitions in swampy marshlands.

While high-resolution texture packs and community mods can dramatically improve visuals, the base game in the Collector’s Edition remains faithful to the original vision. Even without mods, players will appreciate detailed skyboxes, hand‐painted murals in Vivec, and the sense of scale when approaching landmark cities. The Collector’s Edition bonus materials—particularly the full‐color poster map—serve to reinforce the visual grandeur of Vvardenfell before you even launch the game.

Story

Morrowind’s narrative is intricately woven into the fabric of its world. You begin as an exile with no memory of your past, quickly embroiling yourself in prophecy, political intrigue, and divine machinations. The writing is dense and thoughtful, drawing heavily on the complex histories of Dunmer houses, Tribunal gods, and the ominous return of Dagoth Ur. Each NPC carries a backstory that hints at broader conflicts awaiting your discovery.

The main quest unfolds at a deliberate pace, inviting you to explore and learn before confronting the ultimate threat. Dialogues are text‐heavy, rewarding players who take the time to read journals, books, and letters found across Vvardenfell. This emphasis on lore can feel daunting, but it also fosters a deep connection to Morrowind’s culture and setting. The Collector’s Edition even includes The Art of Morrowind book, which sheds light on the creative decisions behind key story moments.

Side quests and faction missions enrich the narrative tapestry, offering moral dilemmas and unexpected alliances. Whether you join the Mage’s Guild or the Thieves Guild, each path reveals unique facets of the island’s history and politics. The story seldom holds your hand—there are no quest markers on the HUD—so you piece together plot threads through careful exploration and conversation. For players seeking a rich, non‐linear narrative, Morrowind remains unmatched.

Overall Experience

The Collector’s Edition of Morrowind delivers not only the core game but a suite of tangible extras that enhance the overall experience. The full soundtrack CD, composed by Jeremy Soule, immerses you in haunting melodies that underscore every village, dungeon, and battlefield. Listening to these tracks outside the game recaptures the sense of wonder and tension that make Morrowind’s world so memorable.

The pewter Ordinator figurine and the 48‐page Art of Morrowind book provide a physical connection to the world of Vvardenfell. Sandra Garrity’s sculpted figurine stands as a testament to the religious fervor of the Dark Elves, while the art book reveals concept sketches and finished renders that chart the game’s visual evolution. These collectibles are more than mere ornaments—they celebrate the painstaking craftsmanship that went into building Morrowind’s distinct aesthetic.

Finally, the poster‐sized map by Mike Wagner is both decorative and functional, guiding new explorers through the island’s diverse regions. Combined with the immersive gameplay, evocative graphics, and layered storytelling, the Collector’s Edition offers a comprehensive package for longtime fans and newcomers alike. Whether you’re revisiting a classic or experiencing Morrowind for the first time, this edition delivers a timeless adventure with collectible appeal.

Retro Replay Score

7.6/10