The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered – A New Coat of Paint on a Classic Game
The wait is finally over! Bethesda Game Studios’ 2006 RPG, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, has been remastered and is now available on all supported platforms. The remaster, developed in collaboration with Virtuos, brings a fresh new look to the game while maintaining its iconic gameplay and systems.
A Blast from the Past
Oblivion was a groundbreaking game in its time, offering a unique blend of story-based fantasy RPG and systems-based, emergent gameplay. Its character customization was unparalleled, and its janky but lovable graphics have become a hallmark of the franchise. The game’s popularity was eclipsed by its successor, Skyrim, but it remains a beloved classic among fans.
A New Leveling System
One of the most significant changes in the remaster is the overhauled leveling system, which combines elements from Oblivion and Skyrim. This is a welcome update, as the original leveling system was criticized for incentivizing players to delay leveling up to grind certain skills. The new system promises to be more balanced and enjoyable.
Presentation and Graphics
The remaster boasts a much more robust lighting system, hyper-detailed graphics, and overhauled NPC faces and talking animations. While some characters may still look a bit wacky, the overall presentation is a significant improvement. The game’s use of Unreal Engine for presentation aspects like graphics and audio, while maintaining Bethesda’s proprietary Creation Engine for gameplay logic and systems, ensures a seamless transition.
What’s the Same and What’s New
Some aspects of the game, like the persuasion system for conversations with NPCs and lockpicking, remain unchanged. However, the remaster introduces a new leveling system, improved graphics, and a more robust lighting system. These changes aim to enhance the overall gaming experience without compromising the game’s unique charm.
Availability and Pricing
The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered is available now on PC (Steam), PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S for $50. It’s also available on Game Pass, making it an excellent option for fans of the franchise.
Conclusion
The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered is a promising update to a classic game. While it may not be a new game, it’s a significant improvement over the original, offering a fresh new look and a more enjoyable leveling system. If you’re a fan of the franchise or just looking for a nostalgic gaming experience, this remaster is definitely worth checking out.
Actionable Insights
- If you’re new to the Elder Scrolls series, Oblivion Remastered is an excellent starting point.
- If you’re a fan of the franchise, this remaster is a must-play.
- The new leveling system promises to be more balanced and enjoyable, making it a welcome update.
- The game’s improved graphics and lighting system make it a visually stunning experience.
Summary
The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered is a significant update to a classic game, offering a fresh new look and a more enjoyable leveling system. With its unique blend of story-based fantasy RPG and systems-based, emergent gameplay, this remaster is sure to delight fans of the franchise and newcomers alike.