'Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion' Remaster's Lack Of Changes Makes It Great

Revisiting Cyrodiil: A Nostalgic Journey Through Oblivion Remastered

What truly captivates me about Oblivion Remastered isn't solely its stunning Unreal Engine 5 visuals, though those are undeniably impressive. It's the incredible feeling of returning to a cherished world, a place I once explored for countless hours as a teenager.

My first Oblivion experience coincided with my high school years. Now, with a mortgage, family, and increased responsibilities, the allure of Cyrodiil remains as strong as ever. Early gameplay reveals numerous subtle improvements and updates. The more subdued outdoor color palette, while a departure from the original, is a conscious artistic choice reflecting modern gaming aesthetics. Thankfully, this tonal shift hasn't entirely diminished the game's inherent charm and vibrancy.

The remaster's true brilliance lies in what Virtuous chose not to alter. Oblivion Remastered sets a new standard for exemplary remastering.

Unforgettable Characters and Quirky AI

Oblivion is synonymous with its memorable, eccentric characters. The Adoring Fan, shown below, returns with his hilariously obsessive devotion, escalating with each arena victory. His relentless pursuit is both annoying and undeniably funny—a perfect example of what makes Oblivion so unique.

And who could forget the guards, delivering their dramatic pronouncements ("Stop right there, criminal scum!") with unwavering seriousness, regardless of the transgression—stealing a fork or committing murder.

Bethesda's Radiant AI system, first implemented in Oblivion, adds a layer of dynamic unpredictability. While rudimentary by today's standards, its impact on world immersion was groundbreaking. The remaster retains this system's quirks, adding to the game's charm.

Core Gameplay: A Unique Experience

Oblivion's class-based system and attribute-focused leveling differ significantly from Skyrim. Choosing a class (or creating a custom one) at the start, along with selecting major attributes and skills, shapes your gameplay. This system, faithfully preserved in the remaster, will feel unfamiliar to Skyrim veterans.

Skill progression remains familiar; repeated actions enhance abilities. The amusing acrobatics skill, leveled by jumping, encourages early-game bunny-hopping. Mini-games remain central to alchemy, lockpicking, and speechcraft, adding a unique layer to the experience.

Enduring Appeal

Oblivion's charm extends beyond its quirks. Its vibrant high fantasy world, reminiscent of classic fantasy settings, provides a refreshing contrast to darker, grittier titles. While I personally prefer a brighter color palette, the game retains its core personality and atmosphere. The soundtrack remains transcendent, instantly transporting players to another realm.

The quest design is arguably the series' best. The main storyline is exceptional, complemented by memorable side quests that rival main storylines in other RPGs. The Thieves Guild and Dark Brotherhood quests are particularly noteworthy.

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The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered is available now on Xbox (including Game Pass), PlayStation, and PC. This nostalgic journey is a welcome return to a beloved world, reminding us of the enduring appeal of classic RPGs.

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