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

Bethesda Game Studios has provided clarity on why Virtuos’ newly released The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered is not considered 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 as fans get their first official look and hands-on experience with Oblivion Remastered. The game, now available, features significant visual enhancements and several gameplay tweaks, 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 numerous changes, which some players feel transform the game into more of a remake than a simple remaster, Bethesda insists on maintaining the core essence of the original. “We looked at every part and carefully upgraded it,” the studio added. “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.”

Bethesda expressed gratitude towards both new players and returning fans, hoping that everyone stepping out of the Imperial sewer feels as though they are experiencing Oblivion for the first time. “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,” the studio shared on X/Twitter.

The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered is now available on PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and S, and is also accessible through Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. For those diving into the remastered world, comprehensive guides are available, covering everything from an expansive Interactive Map to complete Walkthroughs for the Main Questline and Guild Quests, tips on Building the Perfect Character, and much more.