On April 22, 2025, Bethesda Softworks announced the release of a remastered version of its iconic 2006 game, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, utilizing Unreal Engine 5 to enhance graphics and gameplay. This surprise announcement came with an immediate release, allowing players to dive back into the expansive world of Cyrodiil right away.
Dubbed The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, the game is available for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC, including on platforms like Steam and Microsoft Store. The standard edition is priced at $49.99 (1800 UAH in the Ukrainian region of Steam), while a Deluxe Edition, featuring additional unique armor, weapons, and horse equipment, retails for $59.99 (2200 UAH).
“Oblivion was a real defining moment for the series and for how we make games as a studio,” said Todd Howard, Bethesda's CEO, during the announcement. He emphasized that the remaster aims to evoke the same feelings players had when they first experienced the original game, while still updating it to meet modern gaming standards.
Fans were thrilled by the remaster's immediate availability, with over 600,000 viewers tuning in to the live announcement on YouTube. Comments flooded in, with many expressing their excitement and gratitude, including the phrase “Praise be Todd,” a nod to Howard's longstanding reputation in the gaming community.
The remaster includes the full original game along with its expansions, Shivering Isles and Knights of the Nine. Bethesda has meticulously rebuilt every element of the game, from characters and weapons to environmental assets, ensuring a fresh experience. The remaster also features significant upgrades to graphics, including improved real-time lighting, enhanced character models, and new lip-sync technology that makes dialogue scenes much more lifelike.
In addition to visual improvements, the gameplay has seen a host of modernizations. The remaster introduces a fully developed third-person view, a feature that players have eagerly anticipated. Activating this view is simple: players can press MB3 on PC or R3 on consoles, allowing for a more immersive combat experience. Players can also adjust their Field of View (FOV) settings to enhance their visibility during gameplay.
Moreover, the remaster brings updates to the audio, user interface, and a leveling system that synthesizes elements from both Oblivion and its successor, Skyrim. Changes to the weight system and non-combat perks have also been implemented, making for a more streamlined and engaging experience.
However, not all news surrounding the remaster has been positive. Bethesda confirmed that there will be no official mod support for Oblivion Remastered, a deviation from its tradition of supporting modding communities. This announcement has left some players disappointed, particularly those on Xbox Series X/S and PlayStation 5, as many Bethesda titles have thrived due to their robust modding scenes.
Despite the lack of official mod support, interest in the remaster is palpable. Within an hour of its release, Oblivion Remastered soared to the top of Steam's best-sellers list, boasting a “Very Positive” rating from users. This enthusiasm reflects the enduring legacy of Oblivion, which has maintained a cult following for nearly two decades.
Interestingly, the fan modding project Skyblivion, which aims to recreate Oblivion in the Skyrim engine, stated that Bethesda’s remaster does not alter their release plans. In a show of goodwill, Bethesda provided game keys to the entire Skyblivion team, further fostering community engagement.
The remaster's development began in 2021, culminating in a product that not only pays homage to the original but also introduces new mechanics, such as improved hit reactions and a sprinting feature. As players gear up to explore the revitalized landscapes of Cyrodiil, they can expect a blend of nostalgia and fresh experiences.
For players looking to revisit the world of Tamriel, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered promises a journey filled with adventure, enhanced by modern technology and design. With its immediate launch, Bethesda has not only rekindled interest in a beloved classic but also set the stage for discussions about the future of the Elder Scrolls franchise, including the much-anticipated Elder Scrolls VI.
As fans eagerly await more news about future titles, the successful launch of Oblivion Remastered serves as a reminder of the lasting impact of the Elder Scrolls series on the gaming landscape. Will this remaster pave the way for further updates to other classic titles? Only time will tell, but for now, players can immerse themselves in a beautifully reimagined world that has captured the hearts of millions.
