ESO features a wide variety of gear types, each with specific uses and benefits. Weapons come in several categories: One-Hand and Shield, Dual Wield, Two-Handed, Bow, Destruction Staff, and Restoration Staff. Each weapon type has its own skill line and unique abilities. Armor is divided into Light, Medium, and Heavy, each offering different passive bonuses. Light armor benefits Magicka users, Medium armor benefits Stamina users, and Heavy armor benefits Tanks. Most builds will use a combination of armor types to maximize specific passives. Jewelry (rings and necklaces) provides additional stat bonuses and is crucial for completing gear sets. The most impactful aspect of gear in ESO is Set Bonuses. When you equip multiple pieces from the same set (typically 2 to 5 pieces), you gain powerful bonuses that can significantly enhance your character's performance. These bonuses can range from increased stats to unique procs and effects. There are thousands of sets in ESO, found from overland content, dungeons, trials, and crafting. Researching and acquiring the right sets for your build is a top priority.
Common Gear Set Categories:
- Overland Sets: Dropped from world bosses, dolmens, and quest rewards in specific zones.
- Dungeon Sets: Dropped from bosses in 4-player dungeons.
- Trial Sets: Dropped from bosses in 12-player trials.
- Crafted Sets: Can be crafted at specific crafting stations after learning enough traits.
- Monster Sets: Two-piece sets (head and shoulder) dropped from Veteran dungeon final bosses and Undaunted pledges.
- Mythic Items: Powerful single-piece items with unique effects, acquired through Antiquities.