When you see a light off in the distance, pull your sword out. Just in case.

"Hmm a flickering light off in the distance, I wonder what it could...holy crap!! It's shooting fireballs at me!"

Like many Elder Scrolls fans, this scenario might have been similar to what your first encounter with a Flame Atronach was like. Well don't let your guard down just yet adventurer. Zenimax Online Studios has released a news post with all the details about these floating fireball-throwing menaces making their way back to Tamriel in its upcoming MMORPG, The Elder Scrolls Online.

In order to not end up like that adventurer in the video, it's important to know your enemies strengths and weaknesses. Flame Atronachs in particular are formidable opponents in both ranged and melee combat, so closing the gap may not necessarily give you an advantage. Between a burning aura, long ranged fireballs and a lava font that creates a geyser of flame from the ground, these foes will most likely require precise positioning and movement in order to take them down without getting your skin seared off. And just because you manage to kill one, does not mean the battle has ended. In a last ditch effort to take down their opponents, Flame Atronachs will blow up their bodies upon death.

Like most creatures in ESO, sound effects play a critical part of the Flame Atronach design process, due to its varied list of crackling flame-like abilities. Getting the sound just right to the point where it sounds life-like is an important part of the immersion in any Elder Scrolls games. The clanging of swords, the crackling of a lightning spell, or the thump of an enemy--or player--hitting the ground. The Flame Atronach's sounds are held to this standard of detail as well, so if you're out adventuring and hear a crackling Flaming sound behind you, well, let's hope you remembered to pack your fire-resistant armor.

For more Elder Scrolls information head on over to the Official Elder Scrolls Online Website and keep your browser locked to ZAM for more Elder Scrolls Online news updates!

Corey "Crimzen" Jenkins

Follow me on Twitter @coreycrimzen