Bethesda Clarifies: No Remake Planned for The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion

Bethesda Game Studios has shed light on why Virtuos' recently released The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered is not being labeled as a remake. In a detailed post on X/Twitter, the studio behind the iconic fantasy RPG series explained the distinction between a remaster and a remake, emphasizing their choice to remaster rather than remake the classic game.

“We never wanted to remake it – but remaster it – where the original game was there as you remember playing it, but seen through today’s technology,” Bethesda stated. This clarification comes at a time when fans are not only seeing Oblivion Remastered for the first time but also experiencing it firsthand. The remastered version, now available, introduces a range of visual enhancements and gameplay modifications, including the ability to sprint and a new level-up system that blends elements from both the original Oblivion and The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim.

Despite the extensive changes, which some players might perceive as more akin to a remake, Bethesda insists on the remaster label. "We looked at every part and carefully upgraded it," they noted, "But most of all, we never wanted to change the core. It’s still a game from a previous era and should feel like one."

The studio expressed gratitude towards both new and returning players, hoping that everyone stepping out of the Imperial sewer feels like they are experiencing the game anew. "We know many of our longtime fans will be thrilled to revisit Oblivion and the land of Cyrodiil. But there are also so many who have never played it. We can’t thank you enough for all the support you have given us and our games over the years. Our hope with this remaster is, that no matter who you are, when you step out of the Imperial sewer – you feel like you’re experiencing it for the first time."

The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered is currently available on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X and S, and can also be accessed via Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. For those diving into the remastered world, a comprehensive guide is available, featuring an interactive map, complete walkthroughs for the main and guild quests, tips on building the perfect character, and much more.