In 2023, a former Virtuos employee astonished the gaming world when he claimed that Bethesda was working on a Remaster of "The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion". An announcement that was more than just a rumor at the time. However, this claim was later confirmed by official Bethesda documents as part of the FTC proceedings for the Activision Blizzard King takeover. But while the rumor mill was churning, a crucial question arose: Will the project actually still come?
Oblivion on the way to the next generation
According to the original plans, the remaster was to be released in the 2022 financial year. However, this year passed without any release. However, this does not necessarily mean that the project has been canceled. Rather, there are many indications that it has simply been postponed to a later date. A Further information came earlier this year when a Virtuos employee listed an "unannounced UE5 remake" on his LinkedIn profile - a description that immediately sparked speculation about a Oblivion-remake.
A well-known leaker, NateTheHate, provided further information and claimed that the project was more than just a remaster. In fact, it is a fully-fledged remake of the classic, which was originally planned for June 2025. However, it is now reported that the release could be even earlier.
When will the Oblivion remake be unveiled?
But when exactly can we expect an official announcement? There are various theories based on the release date. The reliable leaker NateTheHate believes that Bethesda has already "this month or next month" news about the remake - and that could well happen in March, because Oblivion celebrates on March 20 its 19th anniversary. A perfect opportunity for Bethesda to surprise the fans with an official unveiling.
Although little is currently known about the remake, there is some speculation about the improvements and new features. It is rumored that the game will be developed with the Unreal Engine 5 instead of Bethesda's in-house Creation Engine. This decision could have a profound impact on the gameplay and graphics. It is also expected that the remake Revised stealth and combat functions as well as a new, improved HUD - features that are to be expected from a remake of this scope.
However, it remains to be seen when Bethesda will actually come up with an official announcement. As long as the project remains in the dark, the tension remains high. Fans of the Elder Scrolls-series should already be looking forward to what could be coming. A remake of Oblivion would not only bring back nostalgic memories, but could also introduce a new generation of players to the realm of Tamriel.