Platform(s): PC (version reviewed), PS5, Xbox Series
Genre: Open-World RPG

Before Skyrim’s dragons or Starfield’s space sims, there was Oblivion—a beautiful mess of radiant AIs, potato-faced NPCs, and accidental godhood via alchemy. Now, it’s back. And it’s not just a slap of makeup—it’s had a full makeover, fake teeth and all.

But is this just a modder’s dream finally realised or a Bethesda-style half-baked resurrection? Well, that’s where I come in. I’ve already dug deep into the good, the bad, and the uncomfortably brown in my Loot or Leave It episode, so if you want the full breakdown—combat, stealth, sprinting guards, and yes, the cursed horse armour—go give it a watch.

Looks Less Like a Meme & More Like a Legend

The first thing that hits you, other than a surprised Mudcrab, is the glow-up. Thanks to Unreal Engine 5, Cyrodiil now looks like a place you’d voluntarily get lost in.
Lighting feels more dynamic, textures are sharp, and NPCs have finally escaped the uncanny valley… mostly. Some fans have noticed the world looks a bit “grittier” now—less bloom, more brown—but it fits the high-fantasy tone like a well-worn pair of Daedric boots.

Gameplay Overhauls That Make Sense

Combat’s no longer the awkward slap-fest it once was. Melee hits connect with satisfying weight, magic feels less like waving a glow stick, and stealth is now… stealthy.
Movement has been modernised too—you can sprint! As in, actually run! It’s such a basic thing, yet it changes exploration entirely.

Levelling has also had an existential crisis. No longer are you punished for playing the game “wrong.” You earn XP from all skills now, major or minor, and spend Virtue Points to tailor your build. It’s a clever hybrid between Oblivion’s old-school design and Skyrim’s streamlined progression system.

It’s Still Oblivion (for Better & Worse)

In true Bethesda fashion, it’s clear the devs kept many of the original quirks. The Radiant AI is still charmingly unhinged. Guards still psychic-sprint after you for a stolen sweetroll. And yes, the Adoring Fan returns, in HD glory, ready to praise your every move.

The remaster also bundles in all original DLC, including Shivering Isles, Knights of the Nine, and the hilariously overpriced Horse Armour. It’s the full Oblivion experience—warts, quirks, Daedric Princes and all.

Should You Loot It or Leave It?

Oblivion Remastered isn’t just a visual overhaul—it’s a respectful restoration. It preserves the original’s mad charm while sanding off the roughest edges. And sure, it’s not without its flaws, but if you’re a returning hero or a fresh-faced prisoner stepping out of that sewer for the first time, this version is the best way to play.

Still unsure? I go into far more detail in my full video review over on Loot or Leave It?, breaking down the remaster’s combat changes, graphical fidelity, and all the delightful chaos that still makes Oblivion a classic.

So go on—check it out, and decide for yourself: will you loot it, or leave it?

Pros

• Unreal Engine 5 visuals breathe new life into Cyrodiil.

• Melee and stealth combat are significantly improved.

• Streamlined levelling system respects your time.

• Includes all DLC, from Shivering Isles to Horse Armour.

• Retains the charming chaos of the original.

Cons

• Occasional jank reminds you this is still Oblivion.

• UI and menus could’ve used more modernisation.

Final Score: 90/100

Review code provided by publisher.