The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO) Won't Launch with Error 210 Fix

ESO Error 210 - PatchManifestError_DownloadFail. It's a string of words that can evoke sheer frustration, especially after a fresh update or patch. Most players encounter this error when trying to launch The Elder Scrolls Online after a new update or patch. You're not alone, and indeed, there are solutions available.

How to Resolve 'Error 210 - PatchManifestError_DownloadFail' When The Elder Scrolls Online Won't Launch

The Elder Scrolls Online, often referred to as ESO, is an expansive, immersive MMORPG. But sometimes, the game just won't launch. This is usually represented by the notorious Error 210. This error is a clear indication that there's a disruption in downloading the patch manifest. But don't panic! In any case, there are solutions, and certainly, with a step-by-step guide, you'll be back in Tamriel in no time. Let's dive into these fixes:

1. Repair Game Files

One of the most straightforward solutions is to Repair Game Files:

1. Open your ESO Launcher and click Game Options.
2. Then, select Repair
3. Wait patiently for the process to finish.
4. Most importantly, restart your PC.
5. After that, open the ESO Launcher and play ESO.

Related: ESO FPS Boost Guide: FPS Drop, Low FPS, Lag Fix

2. Flush your DNS

The Domain Name System (DNS) translates domain names to IP addresses so browsers can load Internet resources. Over time, your system caches these DNS results to speed up subsequent requests it makes to the same domains. But sometimes, this cache can become outdated or corrupt, which can lead to connectivity issues like the dreaded Error 210 in The Elder Scrolls Online. Therefore, flushing it can often help.

1. Press Windows Key + R. This will bring up the Run dialog box.
2. Then type cmd and then press Ctrl + Shift + Enter. This combination runs the Command Prompt as an administrator. If prompted by the UAC (User Account Control), click Yes.
3. In the Command Prompt window, type the following command:
   ipconfig /flushdns
4. Press Enter.
5. You should see a message confirming that the DNS Resolver Cache was successfully flushed.
6. After that, restart your computer to ensure the changes take effect.

After flushing the DNS, it's always a good idea to check if ESO can launch without encountering Error 210. If the issue persists, definitely proceed with the other recommended steps.

3. Disable DNS and VPN

If you are using a DNS service or VPN, it might interfere with the game's connectivity. Obviously, disabling them temporarily might do the trick.

4. Restart Your Router

Sometimes, the solution is as simple as restarting your router. It's a perennially recommended step for any connection issue, after all.

5. Update Your OS

For Windows 10 and 11 users:

1. Navigate to Settings.
2. Click on Update & Security.
3. Choose Windows Update.
4. Click on Check for updates.
5. If updates are found, click Install and wait for the process to complete.

Whereas for Windows 7 users: You'll need to download and install the update KB3140245: Click Here to Download

6. Change Game Region

This might sound unusual, but changing the game region has, in fact, solved the issue for many:

1. Open the game launcher and, if already installed, uninstall the game. Navigate to Game Options > Uninstall.
2. Head over to your Launcher's folder (...\Zenimax Online\The Elder Scrolls Online\Launcher).
3. Locate and open with notepad the launcher.settings file.
4. Inside launcher.settings, search for "region":"EU"
5. Once located, change it to "region":"US"
6. Eternally important: Save the launcher.settings file.
7. Run the game launcher as an administrator.
8. Click install.

Error 210 - PatchManifestError_DownloadFail can be a thorn in the side for many ESO players, especially when the game just won't launch post an update. But, undeniably, with a detailed guide and a sprinkle of patience, the vast lands of Tamriel are just a few clicks away. So, adventurers, gear up, follow the steps, and may your journeys in The Elder Scrolls Online be ever triumphant!