New Report Reveals Details as Rumors of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remake Gain Momentum

The buzz around a remake of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion gained traction following an unexpected leak that occurred during the Microsoft versus FTC lawsuit in the summer of 2023. An internal document from Bethesda, detailing their pre-pandemic release schedule, was inadvertently made public. Below is a snapshot from that document:

Title Release Schedule	Console/PC	F2P/Mobile
FY20E	DOOM Eternal & DLC, The Elder Scrolls Online: Greymoor, Fallout: Wastelanders, Deathloop	Fallout Shelter Online, Project Whirlwind
FY21E	Starfield, Elder Scrolls Online: Expansion, Redfall, DOOM Eternal DLC, Ghostwire: Tokyo, Fallout Worlds (Fallout 76), Project Hibiki	Project Now, Project Wanderer
FY22E	Indiana Jones Game, Oblivion Remaster, Elder Scrolls Online: Expansion, Starfield DLC	3 planned titles
FY23E	DOOM: Year Zero & DLC, Project Kestrel, Elder Scrolls Online: Expansion, Project Platinum	1 planned title
FY24E	The Elder Scrolls VI, Project Kestrel: Expansion, Licensed IP Game, Fallout 3 Remaster, Elder Scrolls Online: Expansion, Ghostwire: Tokyo Sequel, Dishonored 3, DOOM Year Zero DLC	1 planned title

Although the release dates indicated in the document are now outdated due to the pandemic’s effects, some projects remain uncertain. For example, the planned sequel to Ghostwire: Tokyo might only proceed if Tango Gameworks either realizes ownership of or obtains a license for the property from Microsoft. Furthermore, there are indications that “DOOM: Year Zero”could be a codename for the upcoming title, Dark Ages, which is set to serve as a prequel to the popular DOOM franchise.

Regarding the Oblivion remake (or remaster, as it was initially referred to), there has been a noticeable lull in information. Recently, a keen observer, known as Timur222, noted that a Technical Artist Director at Virtuos may have contributed to the development of the project.

Support for this speculation was bolstered by a report from MP1st, affirming that Virtuos, recognized for their work on titles like The Outer Worlds: The Spacer’s Choice Edition and assisting Konami with Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, is indeed utilizing Epic’s Unreal Engine 5 to create the remake. According to their findings, a former employee’s personal website unveiled details regarding significant gameplay improvements across six essential areas: Stamina, Sneak, Blocking, Archery, Hit Reaction, and HUD.

The proposed blocking mechanism takes cues from contemporary action games like Dark Souls, enhancing the immersive combat experience. Additionally, the sneak mechanics have undergone substantial refinements, with an overhauled damage formula enhancing its effectiveness. The stamina system is also set for modifications, alleviating player frustration; particularly, the previous issue of knockdowns upon total stamina depletion will be reduced.

Moreover, the HUD has received updates aimed at improving accessibility and aesthetics. Combat hit reactions will now provide more responsive feedback for damage inflicted on both players and NPCs, contributing to a more dynamic gaming experience. Enhancements to the Archery mechanics aim to create a smoother experience irrespective of whether players choose first or third-person perspectives.

Despite the unfolding details, reports have not confirmed a definitive timeline for the game’s announcement. If there’s any anticipation surrounding a mystery game at the upcoming Xbox Developer Direct, it’s essential to remember that Microsoft has stated it will be a completely original title, making it unlikely that this remake will feature prominently. Moreover, there is speculation from Windows Central that the mystery game may be a new entry in an established Japanese franchise with a rich history.

The overwhelming signs suggest a The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion remake is indeed on the horizon, potentially sooner than anticipated. Particularly intriguing is the speculation that its announcement could coincide with the release year of Skyblivion, a fan-driven conversion project that aims to port Oblivion to an updated version of the engine from The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. When I recently spoke to the project lead of Skyblivion, Rebelzize, they didn’t express any major concerns regarding this potential official remake.

This raises an interesting question for fans: Would you prefer a remake powered by Unreal Engine 5 or the anticipated Skyblivion? Share your thoughts in the poll and comments below!

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