The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remake Details Reportedly Leak Online

Rumors of an Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion remake, slated for a 2025 release, have surfaced online, accompanied by a purported leak of details.

Gaming news outlet Mp1st reported that a former employee of Virtuos, a video game support studio, inadvertently disclosed information about the unannounced title. Microsoft declined to comment when questioned by IGN.

According to Mp1st's report, Virtuos utilized Unreal Engine 5 to reconstruct Bethesda's acclaimed open-world RPG, suggesting a substantial overhaul rather than a simple remaster. Alleged gameplay modifications include adjustments to Stamina, Sneak, Blocking, Archery, Hit Reactions, and the HUD.

Mp1st further claims that the Blocking system was redesigned with action and Soulslike games in mind, addressing criticisms of the original's "boring" and "frustrating" mechanics. Sneak icons are supposedly now highlighted, damage calculations have been revised, and the stamina depletion knockdown is reportedly more difficult to trigger. The HUD has undergone a redesign for improved clarity, hit reactions have been added for enhanced feedback, and Archery mechanics have been modernized for both first-person and third-person perspectives.

Hints of an Oblivion remaster emerged in 2023 during the FTC vs. Microsoft trial concerning the Activision Blizzard acquisition. Documents revealed a list of unannounced Bethesda games, compiled in July 2020, including an Oblivion Remaster for fiscal year 2022. However, many titles on this list faced delays or cancellation. For example, Doom Year Zero is now Doom: The Dark Ages, and Indiana Jones and the Great Circle launched later than anticipated. The Elder Scrolls VI also significantly missed its projected release window.

The discrepancy between the leaked "remake" and the originally documented "remaster" is noteworthy. The project's scope may have expanded during development. The official unveiling of this long-rumored title is eagerly anticipated.

Regarding platform availability, Microsoft's current focus on multi-platform releases raises the possibility of the Oblivion remake launching on PC, Xbox, PlayStation, and potentially even the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2.

Leaker NateTheHate, who recently reported on the Nintendo Switch 2 reveal date, predicts a June release for the Oblivion remake. This timeframe aligns with speculated Switch 2 launch windows, suggesting a potential simultaneous release.

Microsoft's upcoming Xbox Developer Direct will feature id Software's presentation of Doom: The Dark Ages. While Microsoft has teased a new game from an undisclosed developer, it's unlikely to be Oblivion. Windows Central's Jez Corden hinted that the mystery game is a new installment in a long-standing Japanese franchise.