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"Oblivion's Impact Surpasses Skyrim's, Even Today"

Author:Kristen Update:May 15,2025

Ask most gamers who were around for the Xbox 360 era, and despite the infamous Red Ring of Death, they'll likely recount fond memories. The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion is one such cherished memory for many Xbox 360 owners, including myself. Back then, I was working at Official Xbox Magazine, and while the successful port of The Elder Scrolls III: Morrowind to Xbox didn't quite capture my interest, Oblivion did from the very start. Originally slated as a day-one launch title for the Xbox 360, Oblivion was featured in multiple cover stories at OXM, with its stunning screenshots captivating everyone. I eagerly took every opportunity to visit Bethesda in Rockville, Maryland, for these stories.

When it came time to review Oblivion, I was thrilled to take on the assignment, especially in an era where exclusive reviews were the norm. I returned to Rockville and spent four glorious days in a conference room at Bethesda's basement, immersing myself in Cyrodiil. Over four consecutive 11-hour days, I lived in this breathtaking, expansive medieval fantasy world. Before heading back home, I had logged 44 hours in the game, leading to OXM's 9.5 out of 10 review, a score I still stand by today. Oblivion was a phenomenal game, filled with compelling quests like the Dark Brotherhood, unexpected discoveries such as the unicorn, and much more. Since I played a submission build on an Xbox 360 debug kit, I had to start over with the retail version, which I eagerly did, investing another 130 hours into the game without hesitation. So, it's no surprise that I'm thrilled about the remastered and re-released version on modern platforms.

For younger gamers who grew up with Skyrim, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered is their first "new" mainline Elder Scrolls game since Skyrim's release over 13 years ago. While we all eagerly await The Elder Scrolls VI, which is likely still 4-5 years away, I'm envious of this new generation experiencing Oblivion for the first time. However, I doubt it will have the same impact for them as it did for me back in March 2006. Oblivion is a two-decade-old game, and other titles, including Bethesda's own Fallout 3, Skyrim, Fallout 4, and Starfield, have since built upon its innovations. Additionally, while the remaster looks better than the original, it doesn't have the same groundbreaking visual impact it had in 2006 when it was arguably the first true next-gen game of the HD era. Remasters aim to modernize older games for current platforms, unlike full remakes like Resident Evil, which are built from scratch and expected to match or exceed modern standards.

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered Screenshots

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The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion was a game that perfectly capitalized on the advent of HD televisions, expanding the scope and scale of open-world gaming. It was a revelation for console gamers accustomed to the limitations of interlaced 640x480 resolutions. (Although, just before Oblivion's release, EA's Fight Night Round 3 also showcased stunning visuals.)

My memories of Oblivion are plentiful, filled with endless exploration and activities. For first-time players, I recommend either rushing through the main quest to close the Oblivion gates quickly or saving it for last after exploring every side quest and open-world activity. The gates start spawning once you begin the main quest, so sealing them off early can enhance your experience.

The technological leap from Morrowind to Oblivion might be unmatched, though perhaps The Elder Scrolls 6 will bring something similar. However, playing Oblivion Remastered won't feel as different to those familiar with Skyrim. Regardless, whether you're playing Oblivion for the first time or revisiting it after countless hours, its fully realized medieval fantasy world and the adventures within it remain my favorite in the Elder Scrolls series. I'm thrilled it's back, despite the many leaks and spoilers leading up to its surprise release.