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

Bethesda Game Studios has taken to social media to clarify why Virtuos' newly released The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered isn't labeled as a remake. In a detailed post on X/Twitter, the studio behind the iconic fantasy RPG series explains its reasoning for categorizing the game as a remaster rather than a remake. As they expressed gratitude to both new players and those revisiting the game, Bethesda firmly stated that they "never wanted to remake it."

"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 elaborated. This statement comes at a time when fans are not only seeing Oblivion Remastered for the first time but also getting hands-on experience with it. The game is now available, featuring extensive visual enhancements and several gameplay tweaks. Notable changes include the introduction of sprinting and a revamped level-up system that blends elements from the original Oblivion and The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim.

Despite the numerous modifications, ranging from new sewer grate designs to significant gameplay additions, many players feel that Oblivion Remastered borders on being a remake rather than just a visual upgrade. While the gaming industry has seen a surge in remasters focusing primarily on minor visual enhancements over the past decade, Bethesda remains steadfast in not classifying their 2021 project as a full remake.

"We looked at every part and carefully upgraded it," Bethesda continued. "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 enthusiasm for both longtime fans returning to the world of Cyrodiil and newcomers experiencing it 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. 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 now available on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X and S, and can also be played through Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. For a comprehensive look at what the remaster offers, check out our detailed guide, which includes an interactive map, complete walkthroughs for the main questline and guild quests, character building tips, and more.