The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remake Details Reportedly Leak Online

Rumors of an Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion remake, slated for a 2025 release, have been swirling, fueled by a purported leak of development 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 questioned by IGN.

According to Mp1st, Virtuos utilized Unreal Engine 5 to rebuild Bethesda's beloved open-world RPG, suggesting a substantial remake rather than a simple remaster. The leak also detailed gameplay adjustments, including modifications to Stamina, Sneak, Blocking, Archery, Hit Reactions, and the HUD.

The Blocking system, reportedly inspired by action and Soulslike games, underwent a significant overhaul to address criticisms of its original "boring" and "frustrating" mechanics. Sneak icons are now allegedly highlighted, damage calculations have been revised, and the Stamina depletion knockdown is supposedly harder to trigger. The HUD has been redesigned for improved clarity, hit reactions added for more responsive feedback, and Archery modernized in both first and third-person perspectives.

News of an Oblivion remaster initially surfaced in 2023, revealed in documents from the FTC vs. Microsoft trial concerning the Activision Blizzard acquisition. A July 2020 list, compiled before Microsoft's purchase of ZeniMax Media in March 2021, included several unannounced Bethesda titles. This list, however, included several titles that have since been delayed, canceled, or significantly altered. Doom Year Zero is now Doom: The Dark Ages, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle launched in December 2024, and The Elder Scrolls VI is far from its projected release window.

The original document referred to the project as a remaster. The current scope, however, seems to indicate a more extensive remake. Bethesda's official announcement will clarify this ambiguity.

Speculation on the remake's platforms is rife. Given Microsoft's current multi-platform approach and the anticipated release of the Nintendo Switch 2, Oblivion may launch on PC, Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch 2.

Leaker NateTheHate, who recently predicted the Nintendo Switch 2 reveal date, claims the Oblivion remake is set for a June release. This aligns with potential Switch 2 launch timing.

Microsoft's upcoming Xbox Developer Direct will feature id Software showcasing 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 long-standing Japanese IP.