Everything We Know About The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remake from Rumors

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Enthusiasts of the “Elder Scrolls” series have been eagerly awaiting a new installment in their beloved high-fantasy RPG franchise for what seems like an eternity now, and surprisingly, a new one appears to be just around the bend. However, it’s important to note that while the long-awaited “Elder Scrolls 6” still seems somewhat out of reach (to put it mildly), there are rumors suggesting that a remake of “The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion,” originally released in 2006, is set to drop soon. In anticipation of this impending release, let’s delve into the details we’ve gathered about the alleged “Oblivion” remake from rumors and unconfirmed reports over the past several months and weeks. Let’s start with the fundamentals…

DEVELOPED BY VIRTUOS

Currently, Bethesda Game Studios is juggling multiple projects they’ve got on their plate. They are busy developing post-release content for the upcoming game, Starfield, which will continue to get expansions and updates in the coming time. Also, they have Fallout 76, a staple in their collection, that requires consistent live service management. Lastly, The Elder Scrolls 6 has now moved into full production following the launch of Starfield.

The remake of Oblivion, contrary to expectations, won’t be developed by its original studio, but rather by Virtuos, a studio recognized for their work on porting, remastering, and remaking games, as well as providing support. Virtuos is also collaborating on another upcoming remake, Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater. At this point, it’s unclear if Bethesda Game Studios has played any part in the project’s development.

BUILT ON UNREAL ENGINE 5

Originally, The Elder Scrolls IV was constructed on a version of Gamebryo developed by Bethesda Game Studios, which served as a precursor to their current Creation Engine. Contrary to expectation, it appears that the remake of this 2006 open-world action RPG may utilize a distinct engine. Early reports suggested that the remake would continue using the original game’s codebase and systems while showcasing improved visuals through an Unreal Engine 5 pipeline.

Subsequent accounts have corroborated this too, with several statements echoing similar ideas since then. For example, earlier this year, in January, a LinkedIn profile of a Virtuos employee suggested ongoing work at the studio on an unannounced remake being developed in Unreal Engine 5, which could imply Oblivion.

REWORKED BLOCKING

In anticipation of the expected release of the Oblivion remake, many assumed that it would be a faithful recreation of the original rather than a complete reimagining. However, according to reports, the game is indeed making substantial adjustments to both its technology and gameplay. While we’ve discussed the technical aspects, let’s delve into the changes in gameplay. Notably, combat appears to be undergoing some significant alterations.

According to a report by MP1st in January, the remake of the game “Oblivion” is expected to include an updated blocking system inspired by Soulslike and action games. The developers of the remake felt that the original game’s blocking mechanics were outdated and clunky, prompting them to redesign it. The specifics of the new system are still unknown, but considering the similarities drawn to Soulslike games, we can make some educated guesses. For example, it’s likely that stamina will be more significant in the new system. On a side note…

STAMINA, SNEAKING IMPROVEMENTS

The previously discussed report by MP1st highlights several additional gameplay enhancements in the remake. Earlier, we spoke about adjustments to the stamina system, specifically the less annoying penalties when it runs out due to revised calculation techniques. Additionally, there have been modifications in the stealth mechanics; damage calculations are now recalculated and sneak icons will be accentuated in the remake for improved visibility.

OTHER TWEAKS AND CHANGES

The remake of Oblivion is not just expected to modify the gameplay; it’s also rumored to revamp the archery mechanics, making ranged combat feel smoother whether you’re using a first-person or third-person perspective. Moreover, reports suggest that hit detection has been enhanced for a more authentic reaction to damage by both players and NPCs.

In the revamped version of “Oblivion”, expect significant enhancements in combat mechanics due to improved hit detection and impact animations. This change aims to address the game’s notorious floaty and awkward combat feel. Additionally, it is promised that the remake will offer a redesigned Heads-Up Display (HUD) and User Interface (UI), aiming for a more legible and user-friendly experience compared to the original. This upgrade should be a highly appreciated improvement, as players of the original have often expressed their displeasure with its navigation.

VISUAL IMPROVEMENTS

The game “The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion,” which is nearly two decades old, is due for some substantial visual and technical updates if any remake or remaster were to be released now. According to reports, it appears that developer Virtuos is indeed delivering on this expectation as they reimagine the 2006 original using Unreal Engine 5. Although an official reveal of the remake has yet to take place (or even be acknowledged), there’s already plenty of evidence to suggest that the “Oblivion” remake won’t shy away from visual enhancements. Snapshots of the remake leaked online earlier this month when Virtuos inadvertently left them up on their website, and these images hint that “Oblivion” is set for a noticeable graphical overhaul.

MULTIPLATFORM LAUNCH

Initially, when Bethesda was bought by Xbox, there were many questions about whether “The Elder Scrolls” games would stop being released on PlayStation in the future. However, over time, these doubts have almost entirely disappeared. The recent period has particularly shown that Microsoft is now a publisher for multiple platforms in essence. In fact, whispers suggest that the remake of “The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion” will indeed launch simultaneously on Xbox, PC, and PlayStation.

Due to the enormous fanbase that the Elder Scrolls series has built on PlayStation since its initial launch on the platform (interestingly, with Oblivion in 2007 and a late arrival), it’s hardly unexpected that Microsoft, which has previously released multiple games cross-platform on PS5, would not want to miss out on the platform for a significant new Elder Scrolls title. Whether or not the game might also appear for the Nintendo Switch 2 at some point is yet to be determined.

SHADOW DROPPING IMMINENTLY

It seems like we might be able to play the remake of “Oblivion” quite soon! Earlier reports suggested a Spring release, which was then narrowed down to April, and more recently, it’s been said that it could be as early as the week of April 21st. Journalist Jeff Grubb made similar claims earlier in the month, and since then, several sources have confirmed this. So, while the exact date is not yet known, it appears that a simultaneous release for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC is imminent.

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2025-04-21 15:12