The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion is well-known for its peculiar NPC AI and somewhat stilted dialogue, which reflect the limitations of its time. The game’s uncanny interactions are largely attributed to the limited roster of voice actors, with only one actor assigned per race, resulting in a somewhat repetitive and awkward delivery.
As a landmark title in the gaming industry, Oblivion was released before fully-voiced characters became standard in video games. Consequently, the volume of dialogue and the inherent errors in performance contributed to a cringeworthy charm over the years. Although the clumsy voice acting has endearingly resonated with many fans, the impending remake raises concerns about losing the unique qualities brought by its standout actors.
The Major Voices Behind Oblivion
The notable exceptions to this vocal uniformity are Patrick Stewart and Sean Bean, who voiced Emperor Uriel Septim VII and Martin Septim, respectively. Although Stewart’s appearance was brief, his performance was pivotal—he narrated the game’s introduction and established key elements of its overarching plot. His exceptional talent left a lasting impression on players, enhancing the game’s atmosphere.
Sean Bean enjoyed a more prolonged contribution to the narrative as Martin Septim, a central figure throughout the game’s events. His acting distinguished Martin from the myriad other Imperials, voiced by Wes Johnson, infusing the character with a unique blend of dignity and emotional depth that allowed players to form a connection with him.
Potential Representation of the Septims in the Remake
Should an Oblivion remake come to fruition, reexamining the NPC dialogue will be crucial. While a shift in voice actor assignments is likely, the absence of both Patrick Stewart and Sean Bean would be a significant loss. The choice of voice talent will largely depend on how the game’s dialogue is restructured. If the original cutscenes remain intact and only the visuals are modernized, their iconic performances might not require replacement.
However, this scenario is improbable. With a development partner like Virtuos, it is feasible that all dialogue could be re-recorded, especially for vital characters such as the Emperor and Martin. It’s important to note that over time, sound quality diminishes and original voice files may not be recoverable, or the actors might not be able to reprise their roles. While a remaster could retain original recordings, a remake generally presents a greater challenge in this regard.
Fortunately, there are numerous talented actors capable of stepping into these roles in the remake. Today’s gaming landscape often sees high-profile talent securing roles in significant franchises like The Elder Scrolls. Nevertheless, rather than merely relying on star power to attract new players, developers should prioritize exceptional skill, similarly to Bethesda’s original approach, ensuring that the characters are not only famous but convincingly embodied.
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