Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remaster Impresses Designer, Dubbed 'Oblivion 2.0'

Bruce Nesmith, the senior game designer behind the original The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion, has expressed his awe at the new Oblivion Remastered by Bethesda and Virtuos. In a conversation with VideoGamer, Nesmith revealed that the remaster goes far beyond what the term typically implies, questioning if "remaster" truly captures the essence of the work done. He emphasized the immense effort, or "blood, sweat, and tears," that went into the original game's creation, which makes the extensive reimagining of Oblivion all the more astonishing.

“I was expecting just a texture update,” Nesmith admitted. “But what they’ve done is a complete overhaul. They’ve redone the animations, updated the animation system, integrated the Unreal Engine, revised the leveling system, and revamped the user interface. They’ve touched every part of the game.”

Despite no prior official announcement from Bethesda, the release of Oblivion Remastered has left fans impressed with its sweeping changes. These range from subtle visual enhancements to significant gameplay modifications. Features like a new sprint mechanic and alterations to the leveling system have led many, including Nesmith, to consider it more of a remake than a mere remaster. Nesmith went as far as suggesting the term "Oblivion 2.0" might be more fitting, highlighting the extensive nature of the update.

“It’s a staggering amount of remastering,” Nesmith stated. “It almost needs its own word. I’m not sure ‘remaster’ does it justice.”

In his discussion, Nesmith further categorized the project, saying, “The closest that could come [to categorising it] is Oblivion 2.0.”

As fans celebrate the remaster, Bethesda provided insight into their naming decision in a social media statement. They explained that their goal was not to remake Oblivion but to modernize it for both returning players and newcomers, preserving the game’s core experience, warts and all.

“We know many of our longtime fans will be thrilled to revisit Oblivion and the land of Cyrodiil,” the statement read. “But there are also so many who have never played it. We can’t thank you enough for all the support you have given us and our games over the years. Our hope with this remaster is, that no matter who you are, when you step out of the Imperial sewer – you feel like you’re experiencing it for the first time.”

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered was unexpectedly revealed and released yesterday, available on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X and S. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers can access it at no additional cost. The modding community has responded enthusiastically to the surprise launch, further reinvigorating the Elder Scrolls community.

For those eager to dive in, we offer a comprehensive guide to Oblivion Remastered, featuring an expansive Interactive Map, complete Walkthroughs for the Main Questline and every Guild Quest, tips on How to Build the Perfect Character, and a list of Things to Do First, among other resources.