Remaster Launches Immediately After Announcement
Bethesda has released The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Steam.
The studio made the announcement during a gameplay reveal published on Wednesday.
The remastered edition, developed by Virtuous, costs AUD 74.99 or is available through Xbox Game Pass.
More than 600,000 viewers tuned into Bethesda’s YouTube reveal, which concluded with the game’s immediate release.
Gamers responded with surprise and enthusiasm, with comments like “Praise be Todd” referencing director Todd Howard.
Visual and Technical Enhancements Introduced
Bethesda rebuilt the game’s visuals using Unreal Engine 5, improving graphics while preserving the original game’s systems.
The remaster maintains Oblivion’s core engine, including its original features and mechanics from the 2006 release.
All downloadable content from the original game is included at launch without additional purchases.
The developers included new voice work previously omitted due to limitations of 2006-era physical media.
Gameplay Improvements Integrate Elements from Skyrim
The new version introduces modernised character movement and an updated levelling system.
Players can now sprint across the open world of Tamriel, a feature influenced by later Elder Scrolls titles.
Developers confirmed that the changes sparked internal debates before implementation.
Bethesda kept the game’s foundational elements intact to preserve its unique identity and era-specific feel.
Todd Howard stated, “We want some of that old charm.”
Figure 1: The new game looks significantly better than the original
Deluxe Edition Offers Additional Content
Players can purchase Oblivion Remastered Deluxe Edition, which includes new quests and exclusive gear.
This edition provides fresh content beyond the original game’s scope.
The Deluxe Edition supports Bethesda’s intention to deliver an expanded experience for returning and new players.
Oblivion’s Legacy Remains Strong
Oblivion launched in 2006 and sold over 9.5 million copies according to Polygon.
Its sequel, The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, sold over 40 million units across multiple console generations.
Rachel Howie, Twitch partner and content creator, stated the remaster was “long overdue the currently very trendy remaster treatment.”
She noted that newer players will discover Oblivion as Skyrim’s “charming little brother.”
Oblivion Remastered Faces PS5 Store Visibility Issues
Several PlayStation 5 users reported issues finding the game in the PlayStation Store.
Possible reasons include:
- Regional Delays: Game listings may take time to update across different PS Store regions.
- Store Caching: Cached data may cause the store to not display new releases immediately.
Steps to Locate Oblivion Remastered on PS5
Gamers can follow these steps to find the game:
- Open the PlayStation Store directly on PS5.
- Search for variations of the title, including:
- “The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered”
- “Oblivion Remastered”
- “Elder Scrolls Oblivion”
- Use a browser to visit playstation.com and search for the game.
- If found, add it to cart or wishlist to access it on the console.
- Restart the PS5 to refresh the store cache.
- Go to Settings > Users and Accounts > Other > Restore Licenses.
- Update PS5 system software via Settings > System > System Software > System Software Update and Settings.
- Download and use the PlayStation App on iOS or Android.
- Sign in, search for the game, and add it to the library.
Bethesda Remains Silent on Elder Scrolls VI
Bethesda announced The Elder Scrolls VI in 2018 but has provided few updates since.
Gamers now speculate on potential news following this surprise remaster release.
Fans also await information on a new Fallout title after the success of Amazon’s Fallout television series.
Bethesda Seeks to Honour the Original
“Oblivion was a really defining moment in the series,” said Todd Howard during the reveal.
“We want people to feel the way they did then.”
He added, “It’s still a game of its time. You want to keep those bones in place.”
Developers called the remaster “a love letter” to the original, maintaining its spirit while refreshing the experience.
Conclusion
Oblivion Remastered is now available globally, combining modern visuals with the original’s core systems.
The launch signals Bethesda’s commitment to preserving its legacy while adapting to today’s gaming landscape.
Players across platforms can revisit or experience for the first time a game that helped define a genre.
