'Oblivion' Remake Rumored After Alleged Details Emerge

Rumors of an Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion remake, slated for a 2025 release, have surfaced online, accompanied by a purported leak of details.

Gaming news outlet Mp1st reported that a former employee of Virtuos, a video game support studio, inadvertently revealed information about the unannounced title. Microsoft declined to comment when questioned by IGN.

According to Mp1st's report, Virtuos utilized Unreal Engine 5 to reconstruct Bethesda's acclaimed open-world RPG, suggesting a substantial overhaul rather than a simple remaster. The leak allegedly details gameplay modifications, including adjustments to Stamina, Sneak, Blocking, Archery, Hit Reactions, and the heads-up display (HUD).

Mp1st claims that the Blocking system was redesigned with action and Soulslike games in mind, addressing criticisms of the original's "boring" and "frustrating" mechanics. Sneak icons are reportedly now highlighted, damage calculations have been revised, and the Stamina depletion knockdown is allegedly more difficult to trigger. The HUD has undergone a redesign for improved clarity. Furthermore, hit reactions have been added for enhanced feedback, and Archery has supposedly been modernized for both first-person and third-person perspectives.

Hints of an Oblivion remaster emerged in 2023 during the FTC vs. Microsoft trial concerning the Activision Blizzard acquisition. Documents revealed several unannounced Bethesda games planned for release, including an Oblivion remaster listed for fiscal year 2022. This list, compiled in July 2020, also included titles like an Indiana Jones game, Doom Year Zero, Project Kestrel, Project Platinum, The Elder Scrolls VI, and Fallout 3 remaster, among others. Many of these projects have since been delayed, canceled, or altered.

The discrepancy between the leaked remake and the originally documented remaster is noteworthy. The project's scope may have expanded during development. The official unveiling will clarify the situation.

Speculation surrounds the platforms for the Oblivion remake. Given Microsoft's current multi-platform strategy and the anticipated release of the Nintendo Switch 2, the game could potentially launch on PC, Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch 2.

Leaker NateTheHate, who recently predicted the Nintendo Switch 2 reveal date, claims the Oblivion remake is scheduled for a June release. This timeframe aligns with rumored Switch 2 launch windows.

Microsoft's upcoming Xbox Developer Direct will feature id Software showcasing Doom: The Dark Ages. While a new game from an undisclosed Japanese developer will also be revealed, it's unlikely to be Oblivion. Windows Central's Jez Corden hints that the mystery title is a new installment in a long-standing Japanese franchise.