The gaming community is buzzing with excitement following the sudden release of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered on April 23, 2025. This remastered version of the beloved open-world RPG promises not only enhanced visuals but also the inclusion of expansion stories and downloadable content that fans have cherished since the original game launched in 2006.
Set in the expansive world of Nirn, the game takes players back to Cyrodiil, where the death of the Emperor has opened gates to the ominous realm of Oblivion. Players are tasked with finding the lost heir to the throne and protecting Cyrodiil from the invading forces of Oblivion, a storyline that has captivated gamers for nearly two decades.
One of the standout features of Oblivion Remastered is its commitment to player freedom. With over 1000 non-playable characters (NPCs) powered by the innovative 'Radiant AI' system, each character behaves independently, creating a living, breathing world. This level of detail allows for unpredictable interactions between NPCs and players, enhancing the immersive experience.
In addition to the main storyline, players can explore the expansion packs, Shivering Isles and Knights of the Nine, both of which add depth and richness to the game. The remastered version also retains the charm of its predecessor, including some of the original glitches that have become a hallmark of the series. Speedrunners have already begun to exploit these quirks, with one player, known as Bacon_, completing the main quest in an astonishing 12 minutes and 30 seconds.
Another speedrunner, SolarTailz, managed to shave even more time off, finishing the quest in just 9 minutes and 33 seconds by utilizing a glitch that allows players to bypass certain obstacles. This shows that while the graphics may be updated, the essence of Oblivion remains intact, much to the delight of long-time fans.
The game is available on multiple platforms, including PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam and the Microsoft Store. The standard edition is priced at 6,930 yen, while the deluxe edition retails for 7,980 yen. Players looking to dive into the remastered world should be aware that the PC version requires a minimum of 125GB of storage, along with specific hardware requirements: Windows 10 version 21H1, an AMD Ryzen 5 2600X or Intel Core i7-6800K CPU, 16GB of memory, and an AMD Radeon RX 5700 or NVIDIA GeForce 1070 Ti GPU.
Despite being a single-player experience with no online elements, Oblivion Remastered allows players to change the difficulty at any time through the game menu, offering flexibility in how they approach challenges.
The release of Oblivion Remastered has sparked a wave of nostalgia among gamers, many of whom fondly remember the original title's impact on the RPG genre. The remaster not only enhances the visual experience but also brings back the beloved characters and stories that made the original game a classic.
As players venture through Cyrodiil once again, they will encounter the same rich lore and engaging quests that defined their first journey into this fantasy world. The remaster aims to introduce a new generation to the wonders of Oblivion while satisfying the cravings of veterans eager to relive their adventures.
In the days following the release, the gaming community has responded positively, with many praising the updated graphics and the nostalgic elements that have been preserved. The blend of new and old has struck a chord, rekindling interest in not just Oblivion but also in the broader Elder Scrolls franchise.
As the excitement continues to build, it's clear that The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered is more than just a simple re-release; it's a celebration of a game that has left an indelible mark on the gaming landscape. Players are encouraged to explore the vast world of Cyrodiil, engage with its inhabitants, and uncover the mysteries that lie within its borders.
With its combination of nostalgia and modern enhancements, Oblivion Remastered is poised to become a staple in the libraries of both new players and seasoned veterans. The adventure awaits, and the gates of Oblivion are open once more.
