The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered Shines in Modern Revival

For gamers who experienced the Xbox 360 era, despite the infamous Red Ring of Death, many cherish vivid memories. The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion created countless such moments for Xbox 360 players. As a former writer for Official Xbox Magazine, I found The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind’s Xbox port less captivating. However, Oblivion, originally intended as a launch title for the Xbox 360, gripped me instantly. We published multiple cover stories, with its stunning screenshots captivating readers, and I eagerly visited Bethesda in Rockville, Maryland, for each preview.

When the chance to review Oblivion arose—a time when exclusive reviews were standard—I seized it. I spent four unforgettable 11-hour days in Bethesda’s basement conference room, immersed in Cyrodiil’s breathtaking, open-world medieval fantasy. Before flying home, I logged 44 hours, crafting a 9.5/10 review for OXM, a score I still endorse. Oblivion enthralled with its compelling quests (Dark Brotherhood stands out), hidden surprises (like the unicorn), and vast depth. Playing a near-final build on an Xbox 360 debug kit meant restarting with the retail version, yet I dove back in without hesitation.

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered Screenshots

I invested another 130 hours in The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion with enthusiasm, so my excitement for its remastered release on modern platforms is no surprise.

For younger gamers raised on Skyrim, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered marks their first “new” mainline Elder Scrolls title since Skyrim’s debut over 13 years ago, as fans of all ages await The Elder Scrolls VI, likely years away.

I envy younger players for whom Skyrim defines The Elder Scrolls, as Oblivion Remastered offers them a fresh adventure. However, its impact may not match my 2006 experience, as it’s a 19-year-old game. Bethesda’s later titles—Fallout 3, Skyrim, Fallout 4, and Starfield—built on Oblivion’s foundation. Visually, the remaster improves the original but lacks the groundbreaking awe of 2006, when it led the HD era as a true next-gen title. Unlike a full remake like Resident Evil, remasters modernize older games without redefining visual standards.

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion arrived at the perfect moment, leveraging HD displays to redefine open-world gaming. It stunned console players accustomed to 640x480 interlaced visuals, delivering an expansive medieval realm. (Though, in February 2006, EA’s Fight Night Round 3 also dazzled visually.)

Oblivion’s world brimmed with discoveries and adventures. For newcomers, I suggest either rushing the main quest to close the bothersome Oblivion gates or saving it until you’ve explored every sidequest and open-world activity, as the gates spawn once the main storyline begins.

The leap from Morrowind to Oblivion was monumental, perhaps unmatched until The Elder Scrolls VI arrives. While Oblivion Remastered may not feel as revolutionary compared to Skyrim for newer players, its rich medieval fantasy, surprises, and adventures cement it as my favorite Elder Scrolls title. Its return, despite a spoiled surprise release, is a delight.