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The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered
Item: The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered
Author: Monster Critic Editorial Team

2025

GenresAdventure, Third Person Perspective, RPG, Single Player, First Person Perspective

AvailableApr 22, 2025

PlatformPlayStation 5, Xbox Series X

DeveloperBethesda Game Studios

Overview

Explore Cyrodiil like never before with stunning new visuals and refined gameplay in The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered largely wins critics over with its engaging narrative and rich lore, particularly the quest against Daedric Prince Mehrunes Dagon and well-crafted side quests. While some reviews note the main quest can feel forgettable and reliant on genre tropes, the overall sentiment is positive, with the remaster adding valuable content and enhancing the story's appeal. Most agree it's an immersive experience, despite some calls for deeper innovation in the core plot.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

92%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The overall sentiment regarding the story of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its compelling narrative and rich lore. Game8 highlights the high-stakes quest against the Daedric Prince Mehrunes Dagon, emphasizing the engaging side quests and character interactions that enhance the player's experience. Similarly, IGN and IGN Spain commend the depth of the story, noting strong faction quest lines and a complex narrative that encourages exploration. Critics like GamersRD and Multiplayer.it also appreciate how the story connects with the previous installment, providing a sense of continuity and immersion that is characteristic of Bethesda's RPGs. However, not all reviews are uniformly positive. Eurogamer Germany offers a contrasting perspective, describing the main quest as forgettable and lacking depth, which echoes sentiments found in past Bethesda titles. This criticism suggests that while the side quests may shine, the core narrative might not resonate as strongly with some players. Similarly, while Eurogamer Poland acknowledges the classic fantasy elements of the story, it does not elevate the main quest beyond the familiar tropes of the genre, hinting at a lack of innovation in the overarching plot. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics leans towards a favorable view of the story in Oblivion Remastered. Most reviewers, including Jeuxvideo.com and Metro GameCentral, find the narrative engaging and captivating, particularly praising the assassination of Emperor Uriel Septim VII and the quest to find his heir, Martin Septim. The remastering of the game, which includes expansions and additional content, has also been noted as a significant enhancement to the narrative experience. In summary, while there are some critiques regarding the depth of the main storyline, the majority of critics agree that the story remains a strong aspect of the game, providing an engaging and immersive experience for players.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered is praised for quality-of-life upgrades, a refined combat system, and a modernized leveling and trading approach, making it a better experience than the original. However, critics note that many core mechanics feel outdated and repetitive, with combat lacking impact. While it successfully enhances the nostalgia of the original, it also highlights its foundational flaws, leaving a mixed but generally positive reception.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

47%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

53%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered has garnered a generally positive reception among critics, highlighting several key improvements that enhance the overall experience. Many reviewers, such as Game8 and But Why Tho?, praised the remaster for introducing quality-of-life enhancements, refined combat mechanics, and a streamlined user interface, making it a definitive way to experience the game. Critics like CGMagazine and IGN Spain noted the revamped leveling system and new trading system, which address previous issues and add modern elements while maintaining the essence of the original. Furthermore, the game encourages exploration and organic interactions, as pointed out by Eurogamer Poland, emphasizing the freedom and creativity that have always been hallmarks of the series. Despite these improvements, several critics expressed concerns about certain aspects of the gameplay feeling outdated or rudimentary. GamersRD and Jeuxvideo.com specifically mentioned that while the core mechanics remain largely unchanged from the original 2006 version, they can feel repetitive and basic by modern standards. Critics like GameSpot and IGN highlighted issues with combat, noting that it lacks impact and can feel stale, despite new attack animations and improved feedback. Additionally, some reviewers, including Eurogamer Germany and Metro GameCentral, pointed out that while the charm of the original gameplay is retained, certain mechanics feel clunky and primitive, which detracts from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered successfully updates key gameplay elements while preserving the spirit of the original title. While there are notable improvements, particularly in the leveling system and user interface, many reviewers agree that the core gameplay mechanics still show signs of age. Critics like SomosXbox and Windows Central highlighted that the enhancements, such as the ability to sprint and improved enemy scaling, are welcome additions, but they do not completely mask the underlying issues with the foundational gameplay. Thus, while the remaster is celebrated for its nostalgic value and improvements, it also serves as a reminder of the limitations of its original design.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered impresses with stunning graphics and vibrant visuals thanks to Unreal Engine 5, earning praise for its modern feel while retaining nostalgic charm. However, critics note issues like outdated character designs and lingering bugs. Overall, it's a solid remaster that revitalizes the classic but still has room for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

80%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

20%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the significant enhancements brought about by the remaster. Critics like CGMagazine and XboxEra highlight the impressive graphical overhaul achieved through Unreal Engine 5, showcasing expressive character models and vibrant environments in stunning 4K resolution. Game8 also commends the stunning visuals and smoother animations, while But Why Tho? notes the gorgeous visual changes and updated assets that breathe new life into the game. The remaster has been recognized for its ability to maintain the nostalgic charm of the original while delivering modern visual fidelity, as seen in the opinions of Eurogamer Poland and Windows Central, who appreciate the balance between enhanced graphics and the essence of the original title. Despite the overall acclaim, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings that detract from the experience. For instance, Eurogamer Germany mentions that while the graphics have improved, they are not cutting-edge, and some aspects feel less dreamlike compared to the original. IGN and Jeuxvideo.com both criticize certain character models for remaining cartoonish and unattractive, indicating that not all visual elements have received the same level of attention. Additionally, GamersRD and Metro GameCentral acknowledge that the remaster still suffers from some of the old bugs and performance issues, which suggests a lingering connection to the game's original limitations. These critiques highlight that while the remaster makes significant strides, it is not without its flaws. The overall consensus among critics is that Oblivion Remastered successfully revitalizes the visual experience of the classic game, making it visually appealing for both new players and long-time fans. The majority of reviewers, including Multiplayer.it and GameSpot, agree that the remaster's graphical enhancements are its most significant improvement, with many praising the dynamic lighting and detailed environments. However, the presence of some outdated character designs and performance issues suggests that while the remaster is a commendable effort, it still has room for improvement. Ultimately, the critics' opinions reflect a strong appreciation for the visual upgrades, with a recognition of the challenges that come with remastering a beloved classic.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered impresses with enhanced sound design and a remastered soundtrack, earning praise for nostalgia and immersive audio. Critics note improvements, like new voice lines, but also highlight shortcomings—unchanged sound effects and limited voice acting variety detract from the experience. Overall, while the remaster successfully blends old and new, it leaves room for further refinement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

67%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered have garnered a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting several enhancements that contribute to an immersive gaming experience. Game8 praised the significant improvements in audio quality, noting the crisper sound effects and a remastered soundtrack that elevates the overall auditory experience. Similarly, CGMagazine emphasized the nostalgic value of the original soundtrack, which has been effectively integrated to enhance the game world. Critics like Metro GameCentral and IGN Spain pointed out the addition of new voice lines and ambient sounds, which enrich the immersive quality of the game, while Multiplayer.it celebrated the retention of Jeremy Soule's iconic soundtrack, reinforcing the game's atmospheric depth. However, the remaster is not without its shortcomings, as several critics pointed out inconsistencies and areas where the sound design could have been better executed. GameSpot noted that many sound effects remain unchanged, creating a dissonance with the updated visuals, which can detract from the overall experience. Critics like GamersRD and Windows Central mentioned that while new voice lines were added, the original voice acting largely remained the same, with some actors reprising roles across different characters, potentially leading to a lack of variety. Jeuxvideo.com also highlighted the absence of French voice acting as a significant downside, indicating that the localization could have been improved. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Oblivion Remastered successfully enhances the sound design and music, there are notable areas for improvement. The blend of nostalgia and modern enhancements has been well-received, as seen in the opinions of critics like Eurogamer Poland and XboxEra, who appreciated the immersive qualities of the updated audio. However, the retention of many original elements without sufficient modernization has led to mixed feelings, particularly regarding the sound effects and voice acting. Critics seem to agree that the remaster successfully captures the essence of the original while introducing some fresh elements, but it leaves room for further refinement in future updates or iterations.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered is mostly praised for new recordings and a diverse cast that enhance immersion, with notable contributions from actors like Patrick Stewart and Sean Bean. However, criticisms arise over a lack of variety from original actors, issues with localization, and absence of French voiceovers. Overall, while the remaster improves upon the original, it retains some quirks that may not satisfy every player.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

62%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

38%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered has garnered a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting several enhancements that contribute to a richer audio experience. Game8 praises the inclusion of new voice actors and re-recorded lines, which breathe new life into the game and create a more immersive world. Similarly, CGMagazine notes the expansion of voice acting with a more diverse cast, reducing repetitiveness in NPC dialogues and enhancing immersion. Critics like IGN Spain and Metro GameCentral also commend the depth added to character interactions, particularly with distinct voices for different races and the involvement of notable actors like Patrick Stewart and Sean Bean, which elevates the overall narrative experience. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the voice acting in the remaster. GamersRD points out that the retention of many original actors can lead to a lack of variety in character voices, suggesting that while new lines have been added, they do not significantly enhance the experience. GameSpot echoes this sentiment, mentioning that some new recordings for different races feel off compared to the original's charm. Additionally, Eurogamer Poland raises concerns about issues with the Polish translation and the lack of gender distinction in dialogues, which detracts from the overall immersion, although it does not delve deeply into the quality of the voice acting itself. Jeuxvideo.com also expresses disappointment over the absence of French voice acting, which was available in the original game, leading to a less satisfying experience for French-speaking players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the remaster of Oblivion has made strides in enhancing voice acting through new recordings and a more diverse cast, it still retains some of the original's quirks that may not appeal to all players. Critics like XboxEra and Windows Central highlight the balance between maintaining the nostalgic charm of the original voice acting and introducing new elements to enrich character interactions. Despite some criticisms regarding variety and localization issues, the remaster's voice acting is generally seen as an improvement, contributing positively to the game's immersive experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered shows mixed technical performance across platforms. The PS5 boasts impressive visuals but suffers from stuttering, while the Xbox Series X generally performs well with quick load times but is marred by bugs and crashes. PC users experience solid performance with advanced graphics, yet lower-end hardware struggles with frame rate drops. Critics agree: notable improvements exist, but significant optimization issues persist, hindering the overall experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

21%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

71%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered has garnered a mixed reception across different gaming platforms. Starting with the positives, the PS5 version, as noted by Game8, showcases impressive enhancements, suggesting that the remaster has made strides in visual fidelity. On the Xbox Series X, several critics, including IGN Spain and Metro GameCentral, praised the game for its smooth performance and quick load times, indicating that on high-end hardware, the game performs admirably. XboxEra also highlighted the game's ability to run smoothly with advanced lighting effects on PC, providing a solid experience for players who can utilize the hardware's capabilities. However, the negatives cannot be overlooked. Game8 pointed out that the PS5 version suffers from occasional stuttering and frame rate dips, indicating subpar optimization. The Xbox Series X version, while generally stable according to Eurogamer Germany, still faced criticism from multiple reviewers, including GamersRD and IGN, who noted persistent bugs, frame drops, and crashes that marred the gameplay experience. Additionally, SomosXbox and Windows Central highlighted performance issues on lower-end hardware and PC, respectively, where frame rate drops were particularly noticeable in open areas, suggesting that optimization remains a significant concern. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered has made notable improvements in technical performance, it is still plagued by various issues across platforms. The Xbox Series X appears to be the most discussed platform, with opinions ranging from solid performance to significant technical instability. Critics like Eurogamer Poland and Multiplayer.it emphasize the presence of bugs and performance issues that detract from the overall enjoyment of the game. While some reviewers, such as IGN Spain, found the remaster to be a solid improvement, the recurring theme of technical shortcomings suggests that further optimization is needed to fully realize the potential of this remastered classic.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

TLDR: Critics are largely praising The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered for its rich content, deep character customization, and replayability, with over 100 dungeons and numerous quests offering fresh experiences for both veterans and newcomers. However, some reviews highlight outdated gameplay mechanics and repetitive elements that could hinder enjoyment. Despite these concerns, the game's nostalgia and extensive content make it a worthy revisit for many players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

73%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

27%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered is overwhelmingly positive among critics. Many reviewers, such as Game8 and Eurogamer Poland, highlight the extensive content available, including over 100 dungeons, numerous side quests, and a vast world to explore. The game’s character customization options and the freedom to approach challenges in various ways are also noted as significant factors contributing to its replayability. Critics from But Why Tho? and CGMagazine emphasize that both veterans and newcomers can find fresh experiences, while IGN Spain and Multiplayer.it point out the inclusion of expansions and new quests, which further enrich the gameplay experience. However, not all opinions are entirely favorable. Some critics, like GamersRD and XboxEra, express concerns about the outdated gameplay mechanics that may deter players from engaging in extensive replay. Although the game retains the charm of the original, as noted by GameSpot and IGN, the lack of substantial innovation in gameplay could limit the experience for those already familiar with the original title. Eurogamer Germany also mentions the repetitive elements that might affect the overall enjoyment during subsequent playthroughs. Despite these criticisms, the consensus among the majority of critics is that The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered offers significant replay value. The combination of nostalgia, rich content, and the freedom to explore different play styles makes it appealing for both returning players and newcomers alike. As highlighted by critics such as Metro GameCentral and Windows Central, the game’s extensive hours of content and engaging quests ensure that players can immerse themselves in the world of Oblivion repeatedly. Overall, while some concerns about outdated mechanics exist, the positive aspects largely outweigh them, solidifying Oblivion Remastered's reputation as a game worth revisiting.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its ability to capture the essence of the original game while introducing modern enhancements. Reviewers like But Why Tho? and CGMagazine commend the remaster for successfully revitalizing a classic RPG, emphasizing its captivating experience and improved visuals. GameSpot and IGN echo this sentiment, highlighting how the remaster retains the charm of the original while updating gameplay mechanics, making it a worthy addition to Bethesda's catalog. Critics such as Metro GameCentral and Windows Central further reinforce this positivity, describing the remaster as an excellent tribute that respects the original while providing a modern gaming experience. Despite the overall acclaim, several critics pointed out notable flaws that hinder the experience. GamersRD and Jeuxvideo.com specifically mention the presence of outdated gameplay mechanics and technical issues that detract from the otherwise polished remaster. While the visuals are praised, some reviewers, including IGN and SomosXbox, caution that these technical shortcomings may impact certain players' enjoyment. This mixed feedback indicates that while the remaster offers a nostalgic return to a beloved title, it is not without its challenges, particularly for those who might be less forgiving of its dated elements. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered is a commendable update that honors the original while introducing modern enhancements. The majority of reviewers, including XboxEra and Eurogamer Poland, consider it a must-play for fans of the genre, despite acknowledging its flaws. Overall, the remaster is seen as a successful blend of nostalgia and modernity, making it a significant title in the RPG landscape, even if it may not appeal to everyone due to its technical shortcomings.

TL;DR

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered receives mostly positive reviews for successfully capturing the essence of the original while modernizing visuals and gameplay. Critics praise it as a worthy tribute, though some note outdated mechanics and technical issues could mar the experience for picky players. Overall, it's a nostalgic must-play for genre fans, despite its flaws.

MONSTER

Reviews

108 reviews found

CGMagazine

Xbox Series X

Apr 27, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Oblivion Remastered successfully revitalizes a classic, blending nostalgia with modern enhancements, making it a standout title in Bethesda's catalog.

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SomosXbox

Xbox Series X

Apr 27, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Overall, Oblivion Remastered is a commendable update that honors the original while introducing modern enhancements, though technical performance issues may hinder some players' experiences.

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Game8

PlayStation 5

Apr 24, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Oblivion Remastered is a brilliant reimagining of a classic RPG, providing a captivating experience that justifies its price, despite some technical shortcomings.

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Windows Central

Xbox Series X

Apr 29, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Oblivion Remastered is a well-executed remaster that respects the original while updating it for modern hardware, making it a must-play for fans of RPGs.

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But Why Tho?

Xbox Series X

Apr 30, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remaster is highly recommended, capturing the original's spirit while enhancing visuals and gameplay, making it a must-play.

IGN Spain

Xbox Series X

Apr 29, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Oblivion Remastered successfully revitalizes a classic RPG, offering a modern experience while preserving the charm of the original, making it a must-play.

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XboxEra

Xbox Series X

Apr 24, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered is a highly recommended remaster that enhances the original's graphics and gameplay without losing its essence.

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Multiplayer.it

Xbox Series X

Apr 24, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered is a visually stunning and nostalgic experience that successfully revitalizes a classic RPG, despite some lingering gameplay issues and technical shortcomings.

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GameSpot

Xbox Series X

Apr 24, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Oblivion Remastered successfully captures the charm of the original while improving visuals and gameplay, making it a worthy remaster despite some flaws.

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Metro GameCentral

Xbox Series X

Apr 25, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

An excellent remaster that preserves the original's charm while enhancing visuals and gameplay, making it a worthwhile experience for both new and returning players.

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