Bethesda and Virtuos officially launch The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered in a surprise drop. Built in Unreal Engine 5, the modernized classic features 4K visuals, revamped systems, and all DLC—available now on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.
Bethesda Softworks and Virtuos Games have officially released The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered in a surprise launch, bringing the beloved 2006 RPG back to life with a host of modern upgrades. Available now on Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, and PC for $49.99—or included with Xbox Game Pass—the remaster fully leverages Unreal Engine 5 to deliver a striking visual overhaul and significant quality-of-life improvements.
Despite being branded a “remaster,” the project is more accurately a hybrid between a remaster and a remake. While retaining the original story and world design, Virtuos has recreated every asset from scratch. This includes new textures, character models, lighting systems, realistic shadows, and upgraded environmental details, all running at 4K resolution and 60 FPS.
Gameplay has been thoroughly modernized to meet current standards. Combat feels more fluid, a sprinting mechanic has been added, and the third-person camera has been completely reworked. Longstanding systems like leveling, encumbrance, and non-combat perks have been refined, with Bethesda touting a new leveling experience that blends the best elements of both Skyrim and the original Oblivion. Enemy scaling has also been improved, although specific details remain scarce.
The remaster brings massive enhancements to the user experience, including reworked HUD, menu, and map systems. User interfaces for mechanics like Persuasion and Clairvoyance have been revamped, and the remaster now features enhanced accessibility options, more frequent autosaves, and improved lip-syncing powered by Unreal Engine 5 technologies.
All original content is included in the base version, from the critically acclaimed Shivering Isles and Knights of the Nine expansions to smaller DLCs like Mehrune’s Razor, The Thieves Den, Wizard’s Tower, and even the infamous Horse Armor Pack. For those wanting more, a $59.99 Deluxe Edition includes exclusive quests, themed gear inspired by Akatosh and Mehrunes Dagon, horse armor sets, a digital artbook, and the official soundtrack.
Despite the sweeping updates, Bethesda insists that the remaster remains true to the spirit of the original. “We’ve modernized a lot, but it’s still the same incredible adventure and the same carefully crafted world,” said Tom Mustaine, Bethesda’s studio director, during the reveal stream.
Initial impressions from the fanbase have been overwhelmingly positive, especially given the long-standing rumors and leaked documents pointing to the remaster’s existence as early as 2023. With improved visuals, smarter design, and all of its nostalgic charm intact, Oblivion Remastered offers both veterans and new players a fresh yet faithful dive into one of the most iconic fantasy RPGs of all time.
Read the latest game news and detailed reports via Gamerative.
