For veteran players of Tamriel, the words “Oblivion” instantly evoke visions of shutting demonic gates, plots exposed, and sheer, heart-stopping expanses of Cyrodiil. And a rumored return to familiar ground on that classic patch may be pending in the winds. A sudden and mysterious refresh on the Steam store page of “The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion” has kicked a firestorm into gear suggesting long-rumored remake activity for the beleaguered cult classic might not be out of the question after all.
Though Bethesda has remained tight-lipped, the subtle tweaks to the game’s digital storefront haven’t gone unnoticed. Such tweaks are rarely arbitrary, and tend to occur in advance of significant announcements or releases. This has led many to believe that the firm is preparing to release a continuation of the Oblivion series, perhaps an all-new remake specifically tailored for modern hardware.
The call for a rethought Oblivion cannot be discounted. The initial game, released in 2006, was a pioneer in the RPG category, hailed for its deep world, engaging story, and innovative AI. Time, however, wearies all. Graphics specifically have not weathered the passage of time well, and fans are clamoring for a refined, modern reinterpretation.
Fuel to the flames is provided by photos of found trailers and game-related video material. While their validity cannot be proven, their timing does correspond with the Steam update, lending credibility to the remake speculation. Could these be leftovers from internal testing, or pre-launch marketing footage? The world of gaming is rampant with rumor.
If indeed a remake is on the cards, it would be a gargantuan project. Remaking the breathtaking vistas of Cyrodiil, its exquisitely detailed cities, and the hundreds of quests in the graphical power available today would be a mammoth task. But the potential reward is gigantic. A new generation of players might experience the magic of Oblivion, and veterans would have the chance to play a favorite again with new eyes.
As the gaming community waits with bated breath, the question persists: will the Oblivion gates open again? Only time will give players the answer. One thing is certain, however: the mere possibility of the remake has re-ignited the flames for a game that is still close to the hearts of millions. And for us who have spent countless hours traveling the plains of Cyrodiil, the potential payoff is nothing short of tempting.
