Bethesda Game Studios has provided clarity on why Virtuos' latest release, The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered, is not being referred to as a remake. In a detailed post on X/Twitter, the studio behind the iconic fantasy RPG series explained their reasoning behind labeling it as a remaster rather than a remake. They expressed gratitude towards both new players and returning fans, emphasizing that their intention was never to "remake" the game but to "remaster" 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 stated. This clarification comes at a time when fans are getting their first official look at Oblivion Remastered and are able to experience it firsthand. The game is now available, featuring significant visual enhancements and some key gameplay adjustments. Notable changes include the addition of sprinting and a new level-up system that blends elements from both the original Oblivion and The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim.
Despite the extensive modifications—from the redesign of minor elements like sewer grates to major gameplay additions—many players feel that Oblivion Remastered goes beyond what is typically expected of a remaster, leaning more towards a remake. However, Bethesda remains firm in its classification, noting that the project, which began in 2021, was about upgrading every part of the game without altering its core essence.
"We looked at every part and carefully upgraded it," Bethesda elaborated. "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 hope that both long-time fans revisiting the land of Cyrodiil and newcomers would experience the game as if for the first time, stepping out of the Imperial sewer with a sense of wonder and excitement.
From all of us at Bethesda Game Studios... pic.twitter.com/AKlUXrmYW5
— Bethesda Game Studios (@BethesdaStudios) April 22, 2025
The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered is now available on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X and S, as well as through Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. For those eager to dive in, we offer a comprehensive guide that covers everything in Oblivion Remastered, including an interactive map, complete walkthroughs for the main questline and all guild quests, tips on building the perfect character, and much more.
