On April 22, 2025, Bethesda Game Studios and Virtuos unveiled the much-anticipated remaster of the classic RPG, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. This version, known as Oblivion Remastered, brings a host of improvements and modernizations while preserving the core elements that made the original a beloved title among gamers. The remaster is available now on platforms including Xbox Series X|S, PS5, and PC, and can also be accessed through Xbox Game Pass, making it accessible to a wide audience.
Oblivion Remastered is not just a simple upgrade; it represents a significant overhaul of the original game, which was first released in 2006. Running on Unreal Engine 5, the remaster boasts enhanced graphics, improved textures, and new character models that breathe fresh life into the game world of Cyrodiil. Players can expect a more immersive experience with realistic lighting and detailed lip-sync animations that were not possible in the original version.
One of the most exciting features of the remaster is the inclusion of both expansions from the original game—Knights of the Nine and Shivering Isles. These expansions are integrated into the base game, allowing players to explore new quests and stories without needing to purchase additional content separately.
The leveling system has also been revamped. Players can now apply Virtue Points to various attributes such as Strength, Intelligence, and Agility upon leveling up, streamlining the process and making it more intuitive. This change is reminiscent of the leveling system found in The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, which many players found more user-friendly compared to the original Oblivion mechanics.
Voice acting has received a significant upgrade as well. In the original game, many NPCs shared voice actors due to file size limitations. However, in Oblivion Remastered, new lines have been recorded to give each character a unique voice, enhancing the overall narrative experience.
Another major improvement is the addition of a sprinting mechanic, which was absent from the original game. This allows players to traverse the expansive landscapes of Cyrodiil more quickly, making exploration feel more dynamic and engaging.
For players who prefer third-person gameplay, the remaster has made significant adjustments to improve this experience. An on-screen cursor has been added, making it easier to aim and interact with the environment while in third-person mode. This change is likely to appeal to players who have historically found the third-person perspective cumbersome.
Combat has also been enhanced with new sound effects and visual feedback. Players can expect more immersive battles with added blood splatters, controller vibrations, and improved visual effects that bring a new level of excitement to encounters.
As of the launch, Oblivion Remastered has already seen impressive engagement, with 100,000 concurrent players on Steam within just three hours of its release. This demonstrates the enduring popularity of the Elder Scrolls franchise and the excitement surrounding this remaster.
Players can also earn a total of 60 achievements or trophies throughout their journey in Oblivion Remastered. These achievements cover a range of milestones, from completing the main quest to joining various factions like the Fighter's Guild, Mage's Guild, Thieves Guild, and Dark Brotherhood. The game encourages players to explore and engage with its rich world, whether they choose to follow the main storyline or delve into side quests.
Speaking of side quests, one of the most cherished aspects of Oblivion is the freedom it offers players. From the moment they exit the Imperial Sewers, players can forge their own path, choosing to engage with the main quest or explore the vast world at their own pace. Two recommended starting points are Vilverin and Sideways Cave, both of which are easily accessible and filled with loot and enemies to test players' skills.
While the remaster has received widespread praise, some players have reported performance issues, particularly on high settings. For instance, testing on an RTX 5090 gaming laptop revealed frame rates that struggled to maintain 60 fps at maximum settings. However, enabling DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) significantly improved performance, allowing for smoother gameplay. This highlights the ongoing challenges in optimizing games for high-end hardware while ensuring accessibility for a broader audience.
Furthermore, the remaster has sparked interest in virtual reality (VR) capabilities. A YouTuber known as LunchAndVR showcased Oblivion Remastered in VR, achieving a frame rate of around 70 fps on medium settings with DLSS enabled. This has led to speculation about the potential for further VR enhancements and mods, making the game even more immersive.
Despite the excitement, there are currently no plans for a Nintendo Switch version of Oblivion Remastered. The game is available for $49.99, but with its inclusion in Xbox Game Pass, many players can experience it at no additional cost.
In summary, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered represents a significant leap forward for one of the most iconic RPGs in gaming history. With its modern graphics, revamped mechanics, and rich content, it offers both new players and returning fans a chance to experience the world of Cyrodiil in a fresh and exciting way. As players dive into this remaster, they are sure to find countless adventures awaiting them in the vast and vibrant landscape of Oblivion.
