Rumors of an Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion remake slated for a 2025 release have ignited the internet, fueled by a purported leak of details. Mp1st reported that a former Virtuos employee inadvertently released information about the unannounced project. Microsoft, when contacted by IGN, declined to comment.
According to Mp1st, Virtuos, utilizing Unreal Engine 5, has undertaken a substantial remake of Bethesda's beloved open-world RPG, suggesting a far more extensive overhaul than a simple remaster. Alleged gameplay modifications include adjustments to Stamina, Sneak, Blocking, Archery, Hit Reactions, and the HUD.
Mp1st's report claims the Blocking system has been redesigned, drawing inspiration from action and Soulslike games to address criticisms of its original "boring" and "frustrating" mechanics. Sneak icons are reportedly enhanced for better visibility, damage calculations have been refined, and the Stamina depletion knockdown is now harder to trigger. The HUD has undergone a redesign for improved clarity. Additionally, hit reactions have been added for clearer feedback, and Archery has been modernized for both first-person and third-person perspectives.
News of an Oblivion remaster first surfaced in 2023, revealed in documents from the FTC vs. Microsoft trial concerning the Activision Blizzard acquisition. These documents, compiled in July 2020 before Microsoft's March 2021 purchase of ZeniMax Media, listed several unannounced Bethesda games:
Fiscal Year 2022:
- Oblivion Remaster
- Indiana Jones game
Fiscal Year 2023:
- Doom Year Zero and DLC
- Project Kestrel
- Project Platinum
Fiscal Year 2024:
- The Elder Scrolls VI
- Project Kestrel: Expansion
- Licensed IP Game
- Fallout 3 Remaster
- Ghostwire: Tokyo Sequel
- Dishonored 3
- DOOM Year Zero DLC
Many of these titles faced delays or cancellations. Doom Year Zero is now Doom: The Dark Ages, launching this year. Indiana Jones and the Great Circle launched in December 2024. The Elder Scrolls VI significantly missed its projected release window.
The focus now shifts to the Oblivion remaster, originally listed as such in the Microsoft document. The project's scope may have evolved into a full-scale remake. Bethesda's official announcement will clarify this ambiguity, resolving one of gaming's worst-kept secrets.
Platform speculation is rife. Given Microsoft's embrace of multiplatform releases and the anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, Oblivion could potentially launch on PC, Xbox, PlayStation, and Switch 2.
Leaker NateTheHate, who recently reported on the alleged Nintendo Switch 2 reveal date, claims the Oblivion remake will launch this June. This aligns with potential Switch 2 launch window reports.
Microsoft's Xbox Developer Direct next week will feature ZeniMax-owned id Software revealing more about Doom: The Dark Ages. Microsoft has also teased a new game from an undisclosed developer, but it's unlikely to be Oblivion. Windows Central's Jez Corden hinted that this mystery game is "a new entry in a legendary Japanese IP with decades of history," promising excitement for many fans.
