I’ve really enjoyed games like Fallout 3, New Vegas, Skyrim, and Fallout 4, and even recently loved Baldur’s Gate 3. However, I’ve tried to get into Oblivion twice now, and it just hasn’t clicked for me, even with mods. I anticipated that this new remaster would finally allow me to enjoy it like others seem to.
While I think the remaster is fantastic and modernizes the visuals without losing the spirit of the original, I still find myself facing the same dated game mechanics. I started as a Wood Elf ranger/thief, explored some ruins, completed the Arena questline, and even bought a shack in Bravil, but I’ve found it not fun.
Especially the Thieves Guild questline, which is often highlighted, felt tedious with multiple loading screens between tasks and gameplay becoming repetitive with lockpicking and persuasion minigames. Given this experience, I wonder if the rest of the game operates similarly, and I’m left wondering what I might be missing or should do differently to appreciate Oblivion.
4 Answers
Not enjoying Oblivion doesn’t mean you’re missing out. It’s all good to discuss! Everyone has different gaming preferences, and it’s okay if this one doesn’t resonate with you. Maybe you’ve just been tackling it in a way that doesn’t align with the way others experience the game!
It might just be that Oblivion isn’t for you, and that’s perfectly fine! But if you’re on PC, some mods can seriously enhance the experience. However, at this point, if it hasn’t clicked yet, it may not. Bethesda games can often feel monotonous, even ones that are praised. If the Thieves Guild isn’t grabbing you, maybe give the Dark Brotherhood a shot? I found that questline more engaging myself!
Yeah, I get that! I also feel a disconnect with the others sometimes. I think after trying the Dark Brotherhood, if it’s still not fun, it might just not be your style. Good luck!
Fast travelling can really break immersion in these games. I learned that if I take my time exploring, I get more out of the experience. When you actively explore, you can encounter unexpected events that make the game feel alive!
Oblivion is beloved for a few reasons. One, the quest plotting can be fun, surprising, and the cities have a more alive feel compared to Skyrim’s design. Secondly, it has a lighter tone than a lot of modern RPGs, mixing humor into the serious stuff. However, I agree some design issues, like dungeon layouts, can hinder enjoyment. Some people prefer the depth in other Bethesda games because they offer a more dynamic feeling, but Oblivion does have its own charm.
Exactly! I loved that about New Vegas too—the branching narratives and choices made it feel richer. Oblivion can feel more linear in comparison. You’ve got a point about the RPG aspect; it’s definitely more limited in role-playing opportunities.
I appreciate that perspective! I just want to explore if there’s something I might’ve overlooked.