The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered Review
Step into Cyrodiil and experience one of the greatest RPGs ever made—reborn.
Image source: Bethesda
A return to Cyrodiil unlike any other—step into the world of Oblivion, where adventure, mystery, and freedom await. The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered revives a classic, refining its visuals, mechanics, and immersion without losing what made it special. From the moment I stepped into its sprawling world, I was reminded why Oblivion remains an RPG masterpiece.
Gameplay & Mechanics
The remaster stays true to the freedom that defines Oblivion, letting players shape their destiny. Whether becoming a noble warrior, a cunning thief, or a powerful mage, every choice matters. Combat is now more responsive, with refined animations, better hit detection, and improved AI reactions.
Magic feels more powerful, with vibrant spell effects that crackle and illuminate the surroundings. Stealth is far more dynamic—the AI reacts more intelligently to distractions, making sneaking through castles or shadowy ruins a true thrill. However, there are moments when the AI still behaves inconsistently, breaking immersion slightly. While these instances aren’t frequent, they remind players that this is still a remaster—not a complete rework.
World Design
Oblivion's world was always alive, but now it's breathtaking. Lush forests stretch endlessly, golden fields sway under dramatic sunsets, and dark alleyways hold hidden stories. Rediscovering iconic cities like the Imperial City, Chorrol, and Skingrad felt like seeing them for the first time—textures are sharper, lighting is richer, and the world feels more immersive than ever.
Yet, some areas still feel underpopulated. While the remaster greatly improves atmosphere, certain locations remain as empty as they were in 2006. Despite this, the sense of adventure and exploration is stronger than ever, making every journey through Cyrodiil an unforgettable experience.
Graphics & Sound
The visual overhaul is stunning. Character models are far more expressive, environments have realistic depth, and the interplay of light and shadow creates a dramatic, cinematic feel. The ambient noises—the rustling leaves, crackling firewood, and distant battle drums—pull you deeper into the world. And, of course, Jeremy Soule's legendary soundtrack remains a timeless masterpiece.
While most of the audio design shines, some sound effects—especially in combat—feel dated. More refined hit sounds and voice interactions would have elevated the remaster to perfection. Still, its improvements outweigh its flaws.
Watch the Official Trailer
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Vast, immersive world brought to life with stunning enhancements.
- Improved AI reactions make stealth and combat feel more engaging.
- Magic effects feel more powerful and visually stunning.
- Sharpened textures, improved lighting, and greater environmental depth.
- Jeremy Soule's legendary soundtrack remains iconic.
Cons
- Occasional AI inconsistencies can break immersion.
- Some areas still feel underpopulated, missing dynamic interactions.
- Certain combat sound effects feel slightly dated.
Final Verdict
The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered rekindles the magic of a beloved classic, refining its mechanics, visuals, and immersion. While imperfections remain, its enhancements make it a must-play for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.
9.2/10