The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered

 

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The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered

has officially launched as a surprise release on April 22, 2025, bringing the 2006 RPG classic into the modern era with significant enhancements. Co-developed by Bethesda Game Studios and Virtuos, the remaster is available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, and is also accessible through Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. ​

🔧 Technical Overhaul

This remaster is more than a visual update; it's a comprehensive reimagining of the original game. Utilizing Unreal Engine 5 for graphics and retaining the Gamebryo engine for core gameplay, the game features:​

• Full graphical overhaul with ray tracing, updated textures, and modern rendering techniques.

• Improved AI for non-playable characters (NPCs) and updated animations.

• Redesigned user interface and control schemes tailored for current-generation hardware.

• Audio enhancements, including re-recorded ambient sounds and environmental effects.​

The remaster also includes the original game's expansion packs, Knights of the Nine and Shivering Isles, offering a complete experience for both new players and longtime fans.

    Significant gameplay improvements have been made to modernize the experience:​

• Combat System: The blocking mechanics have been redesigned, drawing inspiration from action games to address previous criticisms of being "boring" and "frustrating."

• Stealth Mechanics: Sneak icons are now highlighted, and damage calculations for stealth attacks have been revamped.

• Archery Overhaul: Archery has been modernized for better playability in both first-person and third-person modes.

• Stamina System: Adjustments make stamina depletion less punishing, reducing the frequency of knockdowns.

• Enhanced Hit Reactions: Improved responsiveness for both the player and NPCs when damage is inflicted, adding a new layer of realism. ​

🎮 Community and Industry Reception

The remaster has been met with enthusiasm from both the gaming community and industry professionals. Daniel Vávra, director of Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, expressed his excitement, stating that Oblivion was the game that most influenced his work. ​

Meanwhile, the fan-driven Skyblivion project, which aims to recreate Oblivion using the Skyrim engine, remains on track for a late 2025 release. The development team has expressed support for the official remaster, emphasizing that both projects can coexist and offer diverse experiences to players. ​

🛒 Editions and Pricing

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered is priced at €54.99. A Deluxe Edition is also available, featuring additional content such as new armor sets themed after Akatosh and Mehrunes Dagon. 

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🏆 Final Thoughts

With its blend of nostalgic storytelling and modern gameplay enhancements, Oblivion Remastered offers both a faithful homage to the original and a fresh experience for new players. Whether you're revisiting the world of Cyrodiil or exploring it for the first time, this remaster provides a compelling reason to embark on the adventure.​