Game Introduction & Lore Overview
Morrowind, the third installment in The Elder Scrolls series, plunges players into a richly detailed and alien world unlike any other in Tamriel. As an unknown prisoner, you arrive on the island of Vvardenfell, a land steeped in ancient traditions, political intrigue, and a looming prophecy.
The game begins with your character's arrival in the Imperial settlement of Seyda Neen. From there, you are tasked with reporting to Caius Cosades in the city of Balmora, initiating a journey that will uncover the secrets of the Dunmer people, the Tribunal, the Daedra, and a prophesied hero. The world of Morrowind is shaped by its unique lore, distinct cultures, and the ever-present threat of the Blight and the return of the Nerevarine.
The World of Vvardenfell
Vvardenfell is the largest island of the Dunmer (Dark Elf) homeland, Morrowind. It is a land of stark contrasts, from the volcanic Ashlands surrounding the central Red Mountain to the fertile Ascadian Isles and the arid West Gash. The Dunmer society is deeply divided, with Great Houses vying for power and influence.
Key Lore Elements
- The Tribunal: The living gods of the Dunmer – Almalexia, Sotha Sil, and Vivec – who rule Morrowind and protect it from external threats. Their divinity is a central tenet of Dunmer faith.
- The Nerevarine Prophecy: A prophecy foretelling the return of the legendary hero Nerevar, who will unite the Dunmer and defeat Dagoth Ur. Your character may be this prophesied hero.
- Dagoth Ur: The primary antagonist, a former companion of Nerevar who has become corrupted and seeks to spread his divine disease, Corprus, and drive the Empire from Morrowind.
- The Great Houses: The six Great Houses of the Dunmer (Hlaalu, Redoran, Telvanni, Indoril, Dres, and Hemet) each have their own territories, political agendas, and cultural practices.
- The Empire: The ruling power of Tamriel, which has occupied Morrowind for centuries, creating a complex relationship with the native Dunmer.
- Daedra: Powerful demonic beings who are worshipped by some and feared by many. Their influence is felt throughout Vvardenfell.
Your Role as the Nerevarine
The main questline revolves around your character's potential destiny as the Nerevarine. You will be guided by prophecies, ancient texts, and the actions of various factions to uncover the truth about Nerevar's past and your own role in the future of Morrowind. This involves interacting with diverse characters, exploring ancient ruins, and making critical choices that will shape the fate of the island.
Starting the Journey
Your initial steps in Seyda Neen will introduce you to the game's mechanics and the immediate concerns of the Empire. From there, your journey will take you across Vvardenfell, encountering its unique cultures, dangerous creatures, and the unfolding mystery of the Blight and Dagoth Ur.