Rumors are swirling that Bethesda is in the process of developing a remake of the renowned RPG, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. An industry insider suggested last month that the game could potentially be launched as soon as June. However, new information indicates that an announcement for the remake could occur this month, possibly coinciding with its release in a surprise reveal from Bethesda.
Rumored April Release for Oblivion Remake
Jeff Grubb from Giant Bomb shared insights during a livestream on Monday, stating that the Oblivion remake might be unexpectedly released within this month. The term “shadow drop” refers to a sudden launch without any prior marketing or announcement, which would fit this potential release strategy.
“I’ve been informed that it’s going to shadow drop at any moment this month,” Grubb noted, suggesting that gamers might not have to wait long for this surprise.
This information aligns with earlier rumors of the remake debuting in April. Another source reported that the game may launch during the week of April 21, right after the conclusion of the Elder Scrolls Online anniversary event, which commenced on April 3 and runs until April 22.
“Initial info timeline was off, I take responsibility for that. I’m highly confident about the release after the event wraps up, and I’ve heard this from more than one person. The project is 100% real for those who are skeptical,” claimed Detective Seeds, a channel dedicated to gaming industry updates on X. The same channel has also highlighted changes on the Steam page for The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Game of the Year Edition, hinting at the possibility of a remake or remaster in the works at Bethesda.
Furthermore, it’s notable that Microsoft has previously executed surprise game releases. In October 2024, during its Xbox Partner Preview showcase, two new Xbox titles were shadow dropped: the first-person shooter Blindfire and the indie Metroidvania Animal Well. The Xbox parent company also launched the rhythm action game Hi-Fi Rush in 2023 with no prior announcement, which received critical acclaim and multiple year-end awards.
As of now, neither Microsoft nor Bethesda has verified the existence of an Oblivion remake.
The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion is widely regarded as one of the greatest RPGs ever developed.
Photo Credit: Bethesda
Speculation Surrounding Oblivion Remake
In a previous report, industry insider NateTheHate suggested that Bethesda was preparing to launch the remake earlier than the originally speculated June 2025 timeframe, potentially within March or April. Video Games Chronicle echoed this timeline using its own sources, confirming the possibility of an April release. No statements from Bethesda addressing the remake have been issued as of March. Given the numerous leaks and strong rumors from various outlets, it appears likely that the game could debut this month.
Initial leaks from 2023 mention that the Oblivion remake is being developed by Virtuous, a studio known for its support on several major titles. The game is reportedly being rebuilt using Epic Games’ Unreal Engine 5.
Leaked documents related to Microsoft’s trial with the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) revealed a list of unannounced games being developed at Bethesda, which included remasters of Fallout 3 and The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion.
A report earlier this year from MP1st provided the first insights into the Oblivion remake, claiming it is indeed a full remake rather than a simple remaster.
The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion originally debuted in 2006 for PC and Xbox 360, followed by a release on PS3 the following year. The title received widespread acclaim, securing numerous Game of the Year awards, and continues to be celebrated as one of the finest games in the history of the genre.
