I don't know if this topic has already been touched upon, but I was just wondering as an Elder Scrolls fan why we can't play Imperials in ESO. Imperials are a playable race in Morrowind, Oblivion, and Skyrim. I know that Empress Regent Clivia Tharn and High Chancellor Abnar Tharn technically rule the Imperials of Cyrodiil, and these two are the main human antagonists, but there is no reason that Imperials can't defect to one of the three factions. Imperials could mix in with the Ebonheart Pact or the Daggerfall Convenant as both contain races of man or even the Aldmeri Dominion (in a sort of there-is-no-way-the-other-two-factions-are-winning-I'm-joining-the-elves kind of sense). It's probably too late for Zenimax/ Bethesda to add Imperial as a fourth playable race for all factions, but I sort of regret not being able to play as one as I've always played an Imperial character since Morrowind.

Also, I'm thinking that lore-wise, Bretons most resemble the spirit of the Imperials. Does that sound about right?

Because story.

I think the reason is that the Imperials have been bewitched by Molag Bol into serving him. Their leader at this point in time who they are loyal to is under attack by three alliances all seeking the throne of the White Gold Tower. Their resources are being plundered and countrymen being slaughtered by the hundreds by these three alliances.

Question is if you was an Imperial and saw this happen who would you believe? Your beloved emperor or the propaganda from the enemy ?

Remember there is no internet in this world or world media, most folk only know about their immediate area and would not know all the details and facts. We as future players to the game know a lot more about the world than someone who would actually live within it.

The story if the faction war sets the imperials as every factions enemies.

Plus they're focusing on a 3 race per faction system.