The Elder Scrolls Online barges in next year

In an exciting development and confirmation to long-standing rumors, developer Zenimax Online Studios today announced The Elder Scrolls Online, a new massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) set for release in 2013.

Initially revealed by Game Informer, the long-anticipated game offers a massive world "set a millennium before the events of Skyrim as the daedric prince Molag Bal tries to pull all of Tamriel into his demonic realm," according to the magazine.

Game Informer also noted the first teaser trailer and screenshot arrive tomorrow, and we spotted an official Elder Scrolls Online Facebook, Twitter, and forums for fans to keep up with development. The June issue of Game Informer promises to show more information about solo questing, public dungeons, and open-world player versus player (PVP) confrontations awaiting adventurers in the game.

Despite the expected excitement, some gamers seem mixed about the news. An informal forum poll entitled, "How do you feel about the announcement?" on the official The Elder Scrolls Online discussion board currently lists about the same number of people excited and disappointed about the game, with even more saying they feel neutral (wait and see) and await further developments.

"It will be extremely rewarding finally to unveil what we have been developing the last several years," said game director and MMO veteran Matt Firor in a statement to Game Informer. "The entire team is committed to creating the best MMO ever made - and one that is worthy of The Elder Scrolls franchise."

Does the thought of playing The Elder Scrolls online with thousands of others sound exciting to you?