The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remake, rumored to be in development and slated for a 2025 release, has sparked excitement with a leaked list of details circulating online. According to Mp1st, the leak originated from a former employee at Virtuos, a video game support studio, though Microsoft declined to comment when approached by IGN.
Mp1st reports that Virtuos is using Unreal Engine 5 to completely remake Bethesda's iconic open-world RPG, suggesting a comprehensive overhaul rather than a simple remaster. The leaked details hint at significant gameplay changes, including adjustments to Stamina, Sneak, Blocking, Archery, Hit Reaction, and the heads-up display (HUD).
The changes to Blocking are inspired by action games and Soulslikes, addressing the original's perceived "boring" and "frustrating" mechanics. Sneak icons are now highlighted with revamped damage calculations, while the knockdown effect from depleted Stamina is reportedly harder to achieve. The HUD has been redesigned for better clarity, and hit reactions have been added to improve feedback. Archery has also been modernized for both first and third-person perspectives.
Rumors of an Oblivion remaster surfaced in 2023 during the FTC vs. Microsoft trial concerning the Activision Blizzard acquisition. A list of unannounced Bethesda games, compiled in July 2020 before Microsoft's acquisition of ZeniMax Media in March 2021, included an "Oblivion Remaster" planned for the 2022 financial year. However, several projects from that list have been delayed or canceled, with Doom Year Zero becoming Doom: The Dark Ages and slated for release this year, and Indiana Jones and the Great Circle launching in December 2024.
The term "remaster" used in the Microsoft document suggests the project's scope may have evolved into a full remake. The gaming community eagerly awaits official confirmation from Bethesda on what has become one of the industry's worst-kept secrets.
Regarding platforms, Microsoft's commitment to multiplatform releases suggests the Oblivion remake might be available on more than just PC, Xbox, and PlayStation. With the Nintendo Switch 2 on the horizon, the remake could potentially be part of the console's launch lineup. Leaker NateTheHate has suggested an Oblivion release date in June, aligning with the rumored launch window of the Switch 2.
Microsoft's upcoming Xbox Developer Direct will focus on Doom: The Dark Ages and tease a new game from a mystery developer, though it seems unlikely to be the Oblivion remake. Windows Central's Jez Corden has hinted that the new game is a fresh entry in a legendary Japanese IP with a long history, promising to delight fans.
