Rumors of an Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion remake, slated for a 2025 release, have ignited the internet, thanks to a purported leak of details. Mp1st reported that a former employee at Virtuos, a video game support studio, allegedly revealed information about the unannounced project. Microsoft declined to comment when contacted by IGN.
According to Mp1st, Virtuos utilized Unreal Engine 5 to remake Bethesda's acclaimed open-world RPG, suggesting a substantial overhaul rather than a simple remaster. The leak also detailed gameplay adjustments, including modifications to Stamina, Sneak, Blocking, Archery, Hit Reactions, and the HUD.
Mp1st claims the Blocking system was redesigned, drawing inspiration from action and Souls-like games, addressing criticisms of the original's "boring" and "frustrating" mechanics. Sneak icons are reportedly highlighted, damage calculations have been revised, and the Stamina depletion knockdown is now harder to trigger. The HUD underwent a redesign for improved clarity. Furthermore, hit reactions were added for enhanced feedback, and Archery was modernized for both first-person and third-person perspectives.
News of an Oblivion remaster first surfaced in 2023, revealed in documents from the FTC vs. Microsoft trial concerning the Activision Blizzard acquisition. This July 2020 document, predating Microsoft's March 2021 purchase of ZeniMax Media, listed several unannounced Bethesda titles:
Financial Year 2022:
- Oblivion Remaster
- Indiana Jones game
Financial Year 2023:
- Doom Year Zero and DLC
- Project Kestrel
- Project Platinum
Financial Year 2024:
- The Elder Scrolls VI
- Project Kestrel: Expansion
- Licensed IP Game
- Fallout 3 Remaster
- Ghostwire: Tokyo Sequel
- Dishonored 3
- DOOM Year Zero DLC
Many of these titles faced delays or cancellation. Doom Year Zero became Doom: The Dark Ages, launching this year. Indiana Jones and the Great Circle released in December 2024, and The Elder Scrolls VI significantly missed its projected release window.
The Oblivion remaster, originally listed as such in Microsoft's document, is the current focus. The project's scope may have evolved from a remaster to a full-fledged remake. Official confirmation is eagerly awaited.
Regarding platform availability, Microsoft's embrace of multiplatform releases suggests Oblivion's potential arrival on PC, Xbox, PlayStation, and possibly even the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2. Leaker NateTheHate, who recently reported on the Nintendo Switch 2 reveal date, claims the Oblivion remake launches this June, potentially coinciding with the Switch 2 launch window.
Microsoft's Xbox Developer Direct next week will feature id Software revealing more about Doom: The Dark Ages. While Microsoft teased a new game from an undisclosed developer, it's unlikely to be Oblivion. Windows Central's Jez Corden hinted at a new entry in a "legendary Japanese IP with decades of history."
