The Elder Scrolls has always been a series where you can really lose yourself in the world, it isn't one of the typical "Realistic First Person Shooters" that you so commonly see people playing. It's a world of fantasy and enchantment, a place where you can strive to be the very best, where you can conquer all evils and become a hero of the people. Skyrim is not a direct sequel to Oblivion, but a new chapter in the Elder Scrolls series, set 200 years after the events of Oblivion. As with previous Elder Scrolls games, Skyrim begins with the player as an unknown prisoner, on the way to their own execution. When you eventually learn that Alduin, the Nordic god of destruction, will return. Taking the form of a gigantic dragon, Alduin is prophesied to destroy the world with his minions, the Jills (a race of black dragons).
Just as previous Elder Scrolls games it will be an "Open World Environment." Meaning you can postpone the main story line and go off to slay random dragons, as I will be doing on my first play-through, or simply not even do the main story line if it's what you desire.
You can also explore any area of the world by either foot, horseback or fast traveling from city to city. An "Open World Environment" is one of the many things that makes The Elder Scrolls series so brilliant! Many other games do incorporate this style of gameplay but the way Bethesda Studios make it to really feel as through you've been place into a kingdom of dragons, monsters and beast that can make a grown man cry! If you wish, you may hide like a coward, swiftly sprinting from shadow to shadow to avoid a fight. Or you can be the complete opposite, gear up and go hunt you some monsters to get that ever so desired XP!"We try to just have it be, give the player tools and then you know, let them run wild. -Todd Howard"
I also anticipate, just as the other Elder Scrolls games, that Skyrim will not just be for the "Hardcore Gamers" (The ones that are going to be putting in 1000+ hours into the game like me xD) But it will appeal to all players. This is mostly because of the great atmosphere the game has, it's inviting, intoxicating and very addictive. It's a world of wonder and mystery, that all can enjoy.
All in all this game is shaping up to be one of the greatest game releases this year. I will hopefully be doing a full review after release.
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The immersion and side quests that were literally EVERYWHERE made the game what it was, as well. Oblivion has received almost the most hours I've put into a game. I love starting a new character and living out the life of different kinds of characters.