On April 22, 2025, Bethesda officially unveiled and released The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, a highly anticipated remaster of the beloved 2006 role-playing game. This new version, developed by Virtuous using Unreal Engine 5, brings significant visual and gameplay enhancements to the classic title.
The remastered edition is now available across multiple platforms, including PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and S, and PC, and can be downloaded via Xbox Game Pass. Priced at $49.99, it includes the base game along with expansions such as Shivering Isles and Knights of the Nine, as well as additional downloadable content like Fighter’s Stronghold, Spell Tome Treasures, Vile Lair, Mehrune’s Razor, The Thieves Den, Wizard’s Tower, Orrery, and Horse Pack Armor.
The Deluxe Edition is available for $59.99, offering new quests and unique armors, weapons, and horse armor sets, as well as a digital artbook and soundtrack app.
Fans have long awaited this remaster, which has been dubbed the worst-kept secret in gaming since its details leaked in a Microsoft court document in September 2023. The excitement surrounding the remaster surged earlier this year as rumors of a surprise release began to circulate.
In a gameplay video showcasing the remaster, Bethesda's chief, Todd Howard, highlighted the extensive upgrades made to the nearly 20-year-old game. Oblivion Remastered runs at 4K resolution and 60 frames per second, with improvements made to nearly every aspect of the game, including leveling systems, character creation, combat animations, and in-game menus.
Howard described Oblivion as a defining moment for the series and for Bethesda as a studio. He remarked, "Oblivion was a real defining moment in the series and for how we make games as a studio." The remaster aims to modernize the experience while retaining the charm that made the original so beloved.
One of the standout features of the remaster is its stunning visuals, which have been completely overhauled to meet modern standards. The developers have meticulously recreated the handcrafted details of the game's world, ensuring that each moment of exploration is visually impressive. Players can expect to journey through the vast landscape of Cyrodiil and engage in epic battles against the forces of Oblivion.
As players navigate their own stories, they can choose from various character archetypes, from noble warriors to sinister assassins, and experience an adventure filled with captivating narratives and memorable characters. The remaster includes all previously released story expansions, allowing players to experience everything Oblivion has to offer.
In addition to the graphical improvements, gameplay has been refined to enhance the overall experience. The leveling system has been updated to combine the best elements of both Oblivion and its successor, Skyrim. Other gameplay modifications include adjustments to encumbrance, non-combat perks, and the introduction of sprinting, which adds a new dynamic to exploration and combat.
Moreover, the user interface has been reworked to improve systems like Persuasion and Clairvoyance, while the HUD, menus, and maps have also received significant updates. Character animations have been enhanced, providing a more fluid and immersive experience.
As the gaming community eagerly embraces this remaster, many are left wondering what lies ahead for the Elder Scrolls franchise. Bethesda announced The Elder Scrolls VI back in 2018, but details remain scarce as fans anticipate the next major installment in the series.
Despite the excitement surrounding the remaster, some fans have expressed concerns about whether the quirky charm of the original game will be preserved. Many remember Oblivion for its unique humor and memorable moments, such as characters engaging in absurd conversations while facing dire situations. Players are hopeful that the remaster retains these elements while providing a fresh and modern gaming experience.
As The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered officially launches, it marks a new chapter for a game that has left a lasting legacy in the world of RPGs. With the combination of nostalgia and modern enhancements, players are ready to dive back into the enchanting world of Tamriel and relive the adventures that made Oblivion a classic.
The remaster is now available for download, and fans are encouraged to explore the revamped landscapes and rich storytelling that The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered has to offer. Whether you're a returning player or new to the series, this remaster promises to deliver an unforgettable journey through Cyrodiil.
