The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion is reportedly being remade, with an alleged release date set for 2025. According to Mp1st, a leak from a former employee at Virtuos, a video game support studio, has revealed details about this unannounced project. Microsoft, when approached by IGN, declined to comment on the matter.
Virtuos is said to be using Unreal Engine 5 for this remake, indicating a significant overhaul rather than a simple remaster. The leaked information suggests several gameplay changes, including modifications to Stamina, Sneak, Blocking, Archery, Hit Reaction, and the heads-up display (HUD). The changes to Blocking were inspired by action games and Soulslikes, aiming to address the original system's perceived shortcomings of being "boring" and "frustrating." Sneak icons are now reportedly highlighted, with revamped damage calculations. The knockdown effect from depleted Stamina is harder to trigger, and the HUD has been redesigned for better clarity. Additionally, hit reactions have been added to enhance responsiveness, and Archery has been modernized for both first and third-person perspectives.
Rumors of an Oblivion remaster first surfaced in 2023, following the leak of documents from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) versus Microsoft trial regarding the acquisition of Activision Blizzard. These documents, compiled in July 2020 before Microsoft's purchase of ZeniMax Media in March 2021, listed several unannounced Bethesda games planned for release in subsequent years. The list included an "Oblivion Remaster" for the financial year 2022, alongside other titles like an Indiana Jones game, Doom Year Zero, and more. However, many of these projects faced delays or cancellations, with Doom Year Zero becoming Doom: The Dark Ages, set for release this year, and the Indiana Jones game launching in December 2024.
The term "remaster" used in the Microsoft document suggests a less ambitious project than the current reports of a full remake. It's possible that the scope of the project expanded over time, leading to the development of a more comprehensive remake. The gaming community eagerly awaits official confirmation from Bethesda.
Regarding platform availability, Microsoft's current strategy leans towards multiplatform releases. With the anticipated launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, the Oblivion remake might be available on more platforms than just PC, Xbox, and PlayStation. Leaker NateTheHate has suggested that the Oblivion remake could launch in June, potentially aligning with the release window of the Nintendo Switch 2.
Next week, Microsoft will host an Xbox Developer Direct, where id Software, owned by ZeniMax, will provide more details on Doom: The Dark Ages. While Microsoft has teased the reveal of a new game from a mystery developer, it appears unlikely to be the Oblivion remake. Instead, Windows Central's Jez Corden hinted that the new game might be a new entry in a legendary Japanese IP with a long history, promising to delight many fans.
