TL;DR
- ESO Elsweyr PTS is now live for PC/Mac players with specific access requirements
- NDA protects main story beyond first quest but allows sharing of most gameplay content
- Test massive new zone, Necromancer class, Sunspire Trial, and dragon hunting events
- Update 22 brings Daedric Artifacts, Guild Finder, and new homes
- Your feedback directly impacts final game quality through official PTS forums

Dive into the expansive world of Elsweyr and contribute to refining both the new Chapter and Update 22 through the Public Test Server. This comprehensive guide walks you through the entire testing process from access to feedback submission.
The testing environment is currently exclusive to PC and Mac platforms, requiring specific access methods based on your testing history. Previous participants in Morrowind or Summerset Chapters can immediately join by enabling the “Show Public Test Environment” option in their launcher settings. New testers who have actively played ESO recently will receive email invitations distributed over several days to manage server load effectively.
A critical distinction exists between base game and Chapter access. While any player can install the Public Test Environment to explore Update 22 content, only invited testers or those with previous Chapter testing experience gain entry to the complete Elsweyr experience. This tiered approach ensures focused testing while maintaining server stability.
Upon your first login, you’ll encounter a Non-Disclosure Agreement specifically designed to protect the Elsweyr main quest narrative. This NDA covers all story content beyond the initial “A Rage of Dragons” quest, ensuring players discover major plot developments organically upon official release.
You maintain full freedom to stream and discuss nearly all other gameplay elements, including side quests, the innovative Necromancer class, the challenging Sunspire Trial, dynamic Dragon Hunt Events, and all base game features. The development team will announce when the NDA restrictions lift, typically closer to the public launch dates.
All test sessions display a visible watermark as a reminder of your testing participation. Common mistakes include accidentally revealing main story elements during streams or discussions – always verify you’re only sharing approved content categories to avoid spoiling the experience for fellow players.
Optimization tip: Create separate streaming profiles or use overlay markers to clearly indicate which content falls under NDA protection, preventing accidental disclosures during live broadcasts.
Here’s the comprehensive feature set available during Elsweyr Chapter testing:
• Elsweyr Zone: Explore the massive new region with its distinctive Khajiit architecture and diverse landscapes ranging from grasslands to deserts.
• Main Story Quest: Experience the narrative (partially under NDA) that continues the Season of the Dragon saga.
• Necromancer Class: Master the new combat archetype with unique skill lines focused on summoning, bone armor, and life-stealing abilities.
• Sunspire Trial: Challenge this 12-player endgame activity set within an ancient dragon temple.
• Dragon Hunt Events: Participate in dynamic world events featuring epic dragon battles across the zone.
• World Content: Discover new World Bosses, Delves, Public Dungeons, side quests, and powerful item sets that can significantly enhance your character’s capabilities.
Advanced players should focus testing on class balance, particularly the Necromancer’s performance in various content types. Time estimates for comprehensive testing range from 15-25 hours to properly evaluate all major systems and provide meaningful feedback.
Beyond the Chapter content, Update 22 introduces significant base game enhancements:
• Daedric Artifacts System: Test this new Alliance War mechanic that introduces powerful artifact weapons with unique abilities that can turn the tide of battle.
• Guild Finder Tool: Evaluate the new guild recruitment system designed to help players find communities matching their playstyle and interests.
• New Homes: Explore two additional player housing options, providing new customization opportunities and living spaces.
The Daedric Artifacts system represents a major PvP overhaul, requiring careful balance testing to ensure competitive integrity. Practical strategies include testing artifact combinations in different game modes and reporting any overpowered synergies.
For players looking to optimize their testing efficiency, focus on systems that align with your playstyle expertise. Whether you specialize in PvP combat, housing decoration, or guild management, your focused feedback proves most valuable to the development team.
Your insights and bug reports carry tremendous weight in shaping the final release quality. The development team actively monitors feedback and implements adjustments throughout the testing cycle based on community input.
Monitor the official PTS forums regularly for patch notes and developer responses. You must log into the forums to participate in discussions and submit formal bug reports through the established channels.
Testing begins immediately, allowing you to experience Elsweyr’s new zone, test the Necromancer class mechanics, and contribute to preparing this Season of the Dragon installment for its PC/Mac Early Access on May 20 and full multi-platform launch on June 4.
Common reporting mistakes include vague descriptions without reproduction steps or failing to specify your system configuration. Effective bug reports include detailed steps to reproduce, your character build, and any error messages encountered.
Advanced optimization involves testing edge cases and boundary conditions that typical players might not encounter but could cause issues at scale.
Action Checklist
- Check launcher for PTS access or monitor email for invitation
- Review and accept the NDA agreement upon first login
- Test major systems: Necromancer class, Sunspire Trial, dragon events
- Document bugs with reproduction steps and system details
- Participate in PTS forum discussions and review patch notes
No reproduction without permission:OnLineGames Guides » Elder Scrolls Online: Elsweyr and Update 22 Now Live on PTS! Complete guide to ESO Elsweyr PTS testing: access, NDA rules, and new features explained
