Oblivion Remastered: 10 Biggest Improvements On The Original

by

When The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered was quietly released, gamers couldn’t wait to find out what had been updated and what remained unchanged. Oblivion holds a special place in many hearts for valid reasons; some of its charming quirks are deeply nostalgic and let’s not forget, they can be quite amusing as well.

As a gamer, I’ve got to say, this remake-turned-remaster has really hit the sweet spot. It’s packed with thoughtful quality-of-life improvements that smooth over past issues, but it hasn’t lost the essence of the original game. It’s like they’ve taken everything we loved and polished it to perfection.

Despite the challenge, it appears that the risk paid off handsomely. Let’s delve into some notable enhancements in the Oblivion remaster and discuss why these updates contribute to a more fluid and fulfilling gameplay experience.

10.
New Player Improvements

We’ve All Got To Start Somewhere

Of course, the remastered version was expected to attract a diverse range of gamers. Some were veterans from the original game, others had experienced Skyrim before, while many others might be newcomers to role-playing games altogether.

As a devoted fan, I can appreciate the thoughtful approach taken by the developers in revamping some aspects for the new version. This should make it less confusing and more enjoyable for players who are embarking on this epic journey without prior experience with Oblivion.

As a gamer, I’d love to see minor improvements such as streamlining the quests to make them less prone to glitches (Why can’t everything run smoothly right from the start?). Plus, it would be super helpful if they added the Clairvoyance spell from Skyrim. It would definitely come in handy when I get a bit turned around in this game world!

As a gamer, I found the user interface significantly streamlined without losing the vintage charm of an old-school tome or tabletop game.

9.
Difficulty System

We Can Do This The Easy Way…

Instead of using an unusual slider for setting the level of difficulty, Oblivion Remastered has opted for a more streamlined approach by providing five clearly defined difficulty levels.

It’s important to note that these choices aren’t flawless: The term “adept” seems fitting as a starting point, which is standard. However, by just slightly increasing the difficulty level, you’ll find yourself downing potions and blazing through dungeons as if your very survival was at stake.

It seems quite a jump, without a doubt; it’s almost as if they forgot to include an adjustable challenge level.

Absolutely, although there might be some minor adjustments required, the options available to you right now are definitely understandable, and if you ever wish to make changes, you certainly have that flexibility.

8.
Brand New Sound Effects and Voice Acting

The Ultimate Immersion

Adding fresh voice talent significantly enriched the game’s atmosphere, making it even more immersive.

In the original Oblivion game, there were occasions where the same voice actor would be heard across multiple NPCs repeatedly. Although this was characteristic of its era, it did disrupt the immersion to some extent, and maintaining immersion is crucial when engrossed in a lengthy RPG experience.

Enhancing the diversity of personalities really adds vibrancy to the setting, making Cyrodiil seem more authentic and immersive than before. To top it off, they’ve retained some humorous dialogue mishaps, which never fail to bring a smile to my face.

Additionally, you’ll notice that all forms of combat now come with distinct sound effects, which gives the sensation of wielding a heavier sword and wearing a more substantial armor during intense battles.

7.
Stagger Isn’t Random Anymore

No More Combat Sleeping

In hand-to-hand fights, there was a common issue where you could suddenly fall over at any moment.

When you were lying prone on the ground, any adversary attempting to defeat you would relentlessly attack. You’d be left defenseless, only able to endure the onslaught. This wasn’t enjoyable or engaging, instead making close-quarters combat feel unsatisfying.

Most individuals in the original group generally opted for magic or ranged abilities to maintain a safe distance from Non-Player Characters (NPCs).

In this updated system, the gameplay will resemble that of Skyrim more closely, as you won’t be knocked down but rather staggered when your stamina gauge runs out. This change provides a clearer and more predictable experience while still discouraging excessive reliance on shields. It seems like a win-win situation!

6.
Skill and Level Progression

A Steady Curve

In the game Oblivion, the advancement pathway among its diverse skill sets used to be somewhat enigmatic. Fortunately, that’s no longer the case, and it’s even improved now.

In the updated version, some skills yield greater Experience Points (XP) under specific conditions rather than in the original. For instance, the Mercantile skill now grants more XP based on the value of the item you’re selling. This enhancement makes it much more rewarding to advance this skill and enjoy the benefits that come with reaching each level threshold.

Just like with magic, you’ll now earn greater experience points (XP) proportionate to the amount of magical energy (magicka) required to cast a specific spell. This adjustment makes it more strategic to employ potent spells rather than continuously casting weaker ones in an attempt to reach level 100.

These alterations seem incredibly logical and leave one questioning why they weren’t implemented initially.

5.
Face and Customization Options

So Many Options, I Just Can’t Pick

Indeed, I greatly appreciate the array of customization choices available, particularly in such an extensive, wealthy RPG. Crafting a unique character to role-play becomes crucial and highly significant in my experience.

Not only can you grow a beard, but also sport a mustache now as well! Indeed, groundbreaking news, everyone.

Moreover, you now possess an extensive variety of eye designs suitable for any character you envision, enabling you to customize as per your creative whims. Indeed, this versatility is nothing short of a delightful advantage.

Additionally, you now get the chance to customize your character’s origin as well, allowing you to build a background story and enhance specific abilities. This change is no longer limited to the character’s gender, eliminating any potential confusion that may have arisen in the past.

4.
New Sneak Changes

They’ll Never See You Coming

The Stealth Archers have returned! With the recent enhancements to their stealth abilities, it looks like we’re in for a tasty meal tonight, everyone.

To put it simply, the “sneak” symbol located centrally on the screen would change from a closed state to an open one when you’re seen, and remain closed if you manage to stay hidden.

The developers seemingly noticed the structure of Skyrim and thought it would be a great addition, so they included it. After all, it seems logical. Now, the eye icon will gradually blink based on the alertness of nearby Non-Player Characters (NPCs).

Furthermore, it’s worth noting that now you can acquire headshots, which not only staggers but also deals extra damage. This way, there’s a strategic purpose to aiming specifically at particular areas, rather than just shooting arrows in any direction and crossing your fingers for good results.

3.
Movement Overhaul

Gotta Go Fast

In the past version of Oblivion, did you sometimes find yourself moving rather slowly and felt it was necessary to travel on horseback to reach places quickly? That’s all in the past now. You can run at high speed instead.

It’s quite clear now, given that sprinting is featured in countless games across various platforms. However, this isn’t just an ordinary update; it significantly improves the user experience without altering the core gameplay elements excessively. In essence, it refines the game, which is the ideal kind of change for a game that relies heavily on nostalgia.

Indeed, I can’t help but notice a striking resemblance to the world of Skyrim in this game, which was undeniably a fan favorite. It’s like having two beloved universes combined into one fantastic experience.

Moreover, they borrowed an idea from Skyrim and enhanced the third-person perspective, ensuring it’s easier to understand where your character is oriented, giving you the option to switch up your gameplay style if desired.

2.
Revamped Level-Up Process

Untangle That Spagetti Code

In the initial version of Oblivion, the leveling process was infamously chaotic. However, in this updated version, it has been streamlined significantly.

To progress effectively in the game, it was essential to develop certain abilities and reach maximum potential in specific areas before moving on to other skills. If you failed to follow this approach and tried to improve all your primary skills simultaneously, you would quickly become overmatched by the surrounding enemies, potentially leading to a devastating defeat if you attempted challenges such as the Kvatch siege.

In the updated version, the difficulty progression is made slightly more lenient, and you now earn experience points for even minor abilities. Furthermore, you have the flexibility to allocate attribute points as desired, with a cap of 12 points per new level.

In essence, it’s become much more straightforward to understand and play your character, eliminating the need for complex reasoning or advanced mental skills. So, put down your writing tools, as they’re no longer necessary.

1.
Majorly Upgraded Graphics

A Whole New World

At long last, we’ve arrived! It would be impossible to discuss Oblivion Remastered without bringing up its breathtaking visuals. The transformation is simply astounding, preserving the enchantment of the world and its inhabitants.

Back in the day, I used to find some aspects of this game a bit quirky, but in a charming Oblivion sort of way – a goofiness that long-time fans have come to adore. It adds a unique charm to the title, and I must say, the developers’ approach to this remaster is nothing short of brilliant.

The game continues to function using its initial software, but the visuals are managed by Unreal Engine 5, essentially enhancing the original. I must admit, I don’t fully grasp the mechanics behind it, but let me tell you, it’s nothing short of astonishing. You’ll now experience stunning detail, coupled with all the familiar antics beneath the surface.

Well, let’s face it, while there might be a few aspects that players aren’t fond of, rest assured that updates, or “mods” as you might call them, are on their way for sure.

Read More

2025-05-01 17:40