The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered Leaked Images Surface

The gaming community was set ablaze with excitement—and a touch of controversy—when images of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered were discovered on the website of developer Virtuos Games.

The leak includes promotional artwork featuring a knight emerging from fiery gates alongside a graphical comparison showcasing the updated visuals of the iconic 2006 RPG. While the remaster promises a modernized experience, some fans are raising concerns about the look of their beloved game

Where There’s Smoke…

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, originally developed by Bethesda Game Studios, is a beloved entry in the Elder Scrolls series, set in the lush province of Cyrodiil. Released in 2006, it was praised for its expansive open world, freedom of choice, and the gripping Oblivion Crisis storyline, having players thwart a demonic invasion.

Since its release, fans have clamored for a remaster, a demand that gained traction with projects like Skyblivion—a fan-made remake in Skyrim’s engine slated for release in 2025. Rumors of an official remake have swirled for years, with whispers intensifying in 2023 when Microsoft documents from the Activision acquisition court case hinted at a potential Oblivion remake initially planned for FY2022.

There’s Fire – New Leaks for Oblivion Remake

More recently, insider Jeff Grubb has claimed the remake could drop as early as the week of April 21, 2025, a timeline seemingly corroborated by this leak.

According to the leaked details, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered is a full remake built in Unreal Engine 5, developed in collaboration with Bethesda alongside Virtuos Games—a studio known for supporting major titles like Metal Gear Solid 3’s remake.

The remaster is rumored to launch on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S (including Game Pass), and PC. It’s set to feature mechanical overhauls such as an improved blocking system, a modified stamina system, revamped archery, highlighted sneak icons, new hit reactions, and a changed HUD.

Not All Sunshine and Rainbows

The leaked comparison screenshot, comparing a 2006 scene with its 2025 counterpart, has sparked debate among fans. The original Oblivion was known for its vibrant, lush green forests and bright landscapes—a stark contrast to the muted, brown-heavy aesthetic common in games of that generation.

The remastered image, while boasting sharper textures and modern lighting, adopts a darker, more desaturated tone, with a noticeable brown/yellow filter that some fans have expressed their disappointment with, arguing that the new color palette strips away the game’s unique vibrancy.

Not Too Much Longer to Wait

Despite the criticism, the leak has reignited excitement for fans who have waited nearly two decades for an official Oblivion remake. With rumors of a shadow drop just days away, we’re on edge, eager to see if this remaster will live up to the legacy of one of Bethesda’s most iconic titles.

I’m holding out hope that this isn’t the only Elder Scrolls update on the horizon for 2025; after all, The Elder Scrolls VI was teased back in 2018 at E3, and Bethesda has remained silent on its progress ever since.

Perhaps The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered is merely the opening act, setting the stage for a long-overdue reveal of the next chapter in the Elder Scrolls saga. Only time will tell if Bethesda has more surprises up its sleeve for Tamriel’s loyal adventurers.