Bethesda Surprise Launches Oblivion Remastered on PS5 and Game Pass
In a truly unexpected yet joyful turn of events, Bethesda has shadow-dropped one of the most beloved RPGs of all time. On April 22, 2025, fans were stunned to learn that The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered was not only revealed—but made immediately available for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, including on Xbox Game Pass. This revival of a 2006 classic has ignited a wave of nostalgia and fascination across social media and gaming communities.
A Magical Moment Reborn
The remaster is more than just a graphical facelift—it's a celebration of gaming history. Originally released in 2006, Oblivion was a milestone in open-world game design, laying the groundwork for the massively successful Skyrim. The remastered edition, handled by Virtuos, deploys the powerful Unreal Engine 5 to reimagine the world of Cyrodiil in magnificent detail. Players can now experience the game in 4K resolution at 60fps, with improved character models, lighting, and revamped combat animations.
Included in the package are all previously released downloadable contents like Shivering Isles and Knights of the Nine, turning this into the definitive edition of Oblivion. And yes, for those who remember the legendary horse armor fiasco—it's here too, this time included without the extra fee, triggering waves of nostalgia and laughter alike.
The Surprise Drop That Shook the Internet
The first hint of news came during a Bethesda livestream at 8:00 AM PT. Then, at exactly 11:00 AM ET, Oblivion Remastered stealth-launched across platforms to immediate fanfare. There was no long marketing campaign. No teaser months in advance. This was the definition of a shadow drop—and in an age of prolonged hype cycles, it hit players right in the heart.
'Oblivion was a real defining moment in the series and for how we make games as a studio.'
Todd Howard, the legendary game director, shared this heartfelt reflection in the official launch statement, showing just how much emotional weight this project carried.
Fan Reactions and Emotional Echoes
The response? Electric. Longtime players have taken to forums and social media to share stories of their first gate to Oblivion, their favorite Daedric quests, or the first time they got caught stealing bread in Bruma.
'The surprise-launch is not shocking... Bethesda is now working on The Elder Scrolls VI, but there is no word yet on when it might be released.'
As noted by GameSpot editor Eddie Makuch, the remake seems to temporarily satisfy the hunger for new Elder Scrolls content, though fans still yearn for news about TES VI.
One contentious topic, however, is the absence of a Nintendo Switch 2 version. Many fans were hoping for some handheld love, particularly after seeing Skyrim's success on the original Switch.
Still, for most, the excitement drowns out the critique. As Todd Howard once joked about the original game's infamous microtransaction:
'People will buy anything.'
And today, they certainly are—gladly.
Where to Buy or Learn More
For those eager to jump back into the gates of Oblivion, you can visit the following official links:
Conclusion
✔️ A beloved game returns with a modern makeover
✔️ Nostalgia, surprise, and a few bittersweet notes make this one of 2025's most memorable gaming moments
