Online leaks allege a UE5-powered Remake of TES IV: Oblivion is in the works

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion remake is scheduled for release in 2025, and according to the recently leaked online details, the title is presumably developed on Unreal Engine 5 with significant updates to gameplay mechanics and visuals.

The leaks, first reported by Mp1st, suggest that the remake will not simply be a graphical remaster but a full reimagining of the beloved 2006 ARPG developed by Bethesda Game Studios and co-published by Bethesda Softworks and 2K Games. As of the latest official estimates of 2015, Oblivion has sold around 9.5 million copies globally.

Virtuos, the studio that co-developed Cyberpunk 2077 is being rumored to be handling the project of Oblivion’s rebirth. It is said that they are focusing on modernizing core gameplay elements while retaining the charm of the original.

Among the reported changes there are some possible updates to the game’s stamina system, revamped archery mechanics, and a redesigned heads-up display (HUD) aimed at improving clarity for players. Blocking mechanics have been reworked to align with modern action games and Soulslike titles, addressing complaints that the original system felt “boring” and “frustrating.” Sneak mechanics are also set to receive an overhaul, with improved visuals for sneak icons and rebalanced damage calculations.

One of the standout details from the leak is the focus on hit reactions, which aim to provide clearer feedback during combat. Both first- and third-person perspectives for archery are reportedly being modernized, promising a more immersive experience.

These presumptive updates are a marked shift from what was initially referred to as an “Oblivion Remaster” in a 2020 Microsoft document released during the FTC’s investigation of Microsoft’s acquisition of Bethesda’s parent company ZeniMax Media.

NateTheHate, a known source of multiple industry leaks, claims that the Oblivion remake is set for a June 2025 release.

It’s been a while since the last IP’s based on The Elder Scrolls franchise. The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim was launched in 2011 for Windows PC, Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. As of June 2023, the fifth main installment in The Elder Scrolls series has surpassed 60 million copies sold globally.

All these years Skyrim was rereleased multiple times starting with Legendary Edition in 2013 that bundled the original game with all three DLCs: Dawnguard, Hearthfire, and Dragonborn for the same platforms as the original title. 

Nintendo Switch Edition came out in 2017 delivering the game to Nintendo Switch with included motion controls and outfits from The Legend of Zelda series.

Skyrim VR reached PlayStation VR in 2017 and PC VR became available for HTC Vive, Oculus Rift, Windows Mixed Reality in 2018.

2018th Special Edition was a remastered version featuring enhanced graphics, mod support on consoles, and all DLCs expanded the game to new platforms: Windows PC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4. 

Anniversary Edition was released in 2021 for Windows PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5. It commemorated the game’s 10th anniversary and included the Special Edition content plus over 500 pieces of Creation Club content.

MMORPG The Elder Scrolls Online (ESO), also related to The Elder Scrolls universe, was released in 2014, sold over 15 million units by 2020 and generated over $2 billion in revenue by 2024.