The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered is here, reimagining the classic RPG with Unreal Engine 5’s breathtaking visuals, refined combat, and both expansions. Available on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, it blends nostalgia with modern polish. Explore Cyrodiil in 4K, enjoy cross-play, and relive a legend. Whether a veteran or newcomer, this remaster is a must-play adventure! Ready to return to Tamriel?
Hey, gamers! The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion is back, and it’s better than ever. Nearly two decades after its original 2006 release, this iconic RPG has been reborn as a stunning remaster for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, this revamped version of Oblivion offers a dazzling blend of nostalgia and modern flair. Let’s dive into what makes this remaster a must-play, backed by some exciting details and insights.
A Visual Glow-Up with Unreal Engine 5
First things first: Oblivion looks gorgeous. Thanks to Unreal Engine 5, the world of Cyrodiil has been transformed into a vibrant, living landscape. Imagine wandering through dense forests, towering mountains, and bustling cities, all rendered in crisp 4K at a smooth 60 FPS.
- Enhanced Details: Character models now boast intricate textures, from the gleam of armor to the subtle wrinkles on faces.
- Dynamic Environments: Improved lighting, realistic water reflections, and weather effects—like rain cascading through trees—make every moment feel immersive.
- Performance: On PS5 and Xbox Series X, load times are nearly nonexistent, with seamless transitions between areas. PC players can tweak settings for ultra-high resolutions, with ray-tracing support for compatible rigs.
For context, Unreal Engine 5 has powered other visually stunning titles like Hellblade II and Black Myth: Wukong, setting a high bar for graphical fidelity. Oblivion’s remaster stands shoulder-to-shoulder with these modern giants, making it a treat for the eyes.
Gameplay That Feels Fresh Yet Familiar
While the remaster keeps Oblivion’s core story and open-world magic intact, it smooths out the rough edges of the original. Here’s what’s new:
- Refined Combat: Melee and magic animations are fluid, with a weightier feel. Bow aiming now includes a subtle aim-assist option, perfect for precision shots.
- Quality-of-Life Updates: Sprinting adds a new layer to exploration, while a reworked third-person camera makes it easier to admire your character’s gear.
- Modernized Systems: The persuasion mini-game (remember those awkward dialogue wheels?) has been streamlined for better flow. Clairvoyance now highlights quest paths more clearly, reducing aimless wandering.
- Accessibility: Options like adjustable text sizes, colorblind modes, and remappable controls ensure more players can enjoy the adventure.
These tweaks make Oblivion feel like a 2025 release while preserving its classic charm. For example, the sprint mechanic draws inspiration from Skyrim’s pacing, ensuring exploration feels dynamic without altering the game’s soul.
All-Inclusive Content
This isn’t just Oblivion—it’s the complete package. The remaster bundles the base game with its two legendary expansions:
- Knights of the Nine: A holy questline with epic battles and divine rewards.
- Shivering Isles: A surreal journey into the realm of Sheogorath, packed with quirky characters and vibrant landscapes.
Want more? The Deluxe Edition throws in exclusive armor sets (like the sleek Ebony Blade), unique weapons, a digital artbook showcasing Cyrodiil’s redesign, and the original soundtrack, remastered in high fidelity. According to Bethesda’s recent press release, the Shivering Isles expansion alone has been expanded with 10 hours of additional side content, making it a meaty adventure for completionists.
Seamless Access and Cross-Platform Play
Here’s where things get practical:
- Xbox Game Pass: Subscribers can dive in right now at no extra cost. In 2024, Game Pass boasted 34 million active users, and Oblivion’s inclusion is a huge draw for RPG fans.
- Cross-Play and Cross-Save: Start your adventure on Xbox, continue on PC, and keep your progress intact. This feature mirrors modern hits like Baldur’s Gate 3, ensuring flexibility.
- Pricing: For PS5 players, the standard edition retails at $59.99, while the Deluxe Edition is $79.99. PC versions are available on Steam and the Epic Games Store, with regional pricing adjustments.
- Storage: Be prepared—the game clocks in at around 80 GB due to its high-res assets. Make room on your SSD!
These features make Oblivion Remastered accessible and convenient, catering to how we game today.
Why Oblivion Remastered Shines
Oblivion isn’t just a game; it’s a milestone. Released in 2006, it redefined open-world RPGs with its sprawling world and player-driven storytelling. It sold over 3 million copies in its first year and earned a 94/100 on Metacritic, cementing its legacy. This remaster honors that heritage while making it relevant for 2025.
- For Veterans: Relive iconic moments—like escaping the Imperial Prison or joining the Dark Brotherhood—with a fresh coat of paint. The updated mechanics make revisiting Cyrodiil feel like a new adventure.
- For Newcomers: If you’ve only played Skyrim or Starfield, Oblivion’s rich lore and freedom of choice are a perfect entry point to Bethesda’s universe. Plus, the modernized controls lower the barrier to entry.
- Cultural Impact: Oblivion’s influence is undeniable. Its radiant AI system, which let NPCs live dynamic lives, inspired countless RPGs. The remaster’s enhancements make it a showcase of how far gaming has come.
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
No remaster is perfect. Some players have noted that the voice acting—unchanged from the original—can feel dated compared to modern RPGs like The Witcher 3. Additionally, while the UI is improved, it’s still denser than streamlined interfaces in newer titles. That said, these quirks add to Oblivion’s retro charm, and the core experience remains captivating.
Why You Should Play It
The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered is a love letter to fans and a bold invitation to new players. Its jaw-dropping visuals, polished gameplay, and wealth of content make it a standout release in 2025. Whether you’re exploring the Ayleid ruins, battling Daedric forces, or simply soaking in Cyrodiil’s beauty, this remaster delivers an adventure that’s both timeless and cutting-edge.
Ready to step into the Imperial heartland? Grab your sword, cast a spell, and lose yourself in a classic reborn. What’s your favorite Oblivion memory—or are you jumping in for the first time? Let’s hear it!
