Lecture Notes: Overview of Oblivion Remastered

Introduction

• Show: Before You Buy
• Presenter: Jake Baldino
• Topic: Oblivion Remastered - first impressions and gameplay analysis.

General Overview

• Release Type: Shadow Drop release.
• Original Game: The Elder Scrolls 4 Oblivion (2007).
• Remaster: Uses Unreal Engine 5 (visuals) and the Creation Engine (game logic).
  • Visuals completely overhauled with high-resolution textures and new models.
  • Maintains the original game’s “bones”.

Visual and Technical Improvements

• High-quality visuals: better NPCs, enemies, weapons, and towns.
• Comparison to original: Looks like a brand-new game but retains original mechanics.
• Platform Tested: PC and PS5 Pro (spoiler-free footage).
• Visual Style: More washed out, similar to Skyrim’s visual direction.
  • Color palette slightly differs from original (less vibrant).

Gameplay Improvements

• Combat:
  • Third-person camera and animations improved.
  • New hit animations for more feedback during combat.
• User Interface:
  • Cleaned-up UI, easier navigation (although not completely overhauled).
  • New sprint feature added (similar to Skyrim).

Additions and Changes

• Quality of life improvements and new voice work.
• Maintains original game’s quirks, bugs, and exploits.
• Stat Allocation: Players can now allocate stats upon leveling up.
• DLC Included: All original add-ons, including Shivering Isles and Knights of the Nine.
  • Deluxe package includes horse armor as a nod to past DLC.

Performance

• PC: Generally stable, minor crashes noted.
• PS5 Pro: Some performance issues with stuttering in the open world.

Challenges and Limitations

• Level Scaling: Remains unchanged from original; still flawed.
• Quest System: Can be vague and sometimes unclear for side quests.
• Jankiness: Remains with the game logic and new engine combination.
• Mod Support: Lacks official mod support.

Final Thoughts

• Target Audience: Great for first-time players; may not meet hardcore fans' expectations.
• Overall Experience: Preserves the original charm and important game moments.
• Key Moments: Retains memorable quests and game charm from 2007 release.
• Price Point: $50 US, but comes with all official expansions and improvements.

Conclusion

• Verdict: Good remaster for newcomers, with a mix of improvements and original flaws retained.
• Call to audience: Share experiences and opinions about Oblivion in comments.