Skyblivion Team Defends Project After Bethesda Remaster

The fan-made project Skyblivion, a comprehensive volunteer-led remake of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion developed by the TESRenewal modding group, has released its first major update since the launch of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered in April, confirming its planned release remains on track for later this year.

By utilizing Bethesda's Creation Engine, Skyblivion recreates the world of Oblivion within the framework of its sequel, Skyrim. Development efforts span more than a decade, evolving from a straightforward port into a full-scale remake featuring numerous enhancements and all-new content. In 2021, IGN spoke with one of the project’s lead developers about its ambitious goals.

Reports indicate that Bethesda and the Skyblivion team have maintained "very good terms." However, as speculation about an official Oblivion remaster increased, some fans wondered whether Bethesda’s announcement—timed shortly before Skyblivion’s intended launch—was an attempt to overshadow the fan project. In response, the Skyblivion team issued a statement clarifying that Bethesda has "consistently supported community-driven initiatives like ours" and emphasizing that "no comparison or rivalry between the two projects is necessary." In a supportive gesture, Bethesda even provided the mod’s developers with complimentary keys for The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered.

Now, three months after the remaster’s debut, the Skyblivion team has provided a fresh progress report, potentially answering a frequently asked question: "What is the purpose of Skyblivion now that an official remaster is available?"

"The answer is straightforward. Skyblivion is a complete from-the-ground-up remake that modernizes Oblivion to align with current RPG expectations," the team elaborated in a new video. "While the official remaster delivers impressive upgrades to textures and assets, Skyblivion introduces entirely redesigned environments: new areas, dungeons, cities, gameplay mechanics, and much more.

"Every fort, home, cave, and landscape has been carefully reimagined. We’ve infused thoughtful creative touches to revitalize this nearly 20-year-old classic. Although we cannot confirm an exact release date at this stage, we remain optimistic about launching later this year. This video series illustrates just how far one of the most ambitious modding initiatives of our time has progressed and where it is headed."

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The 15-minute presentation is packed with exciting details, but one standout highlight, noted by PC Gamer, is the unveiling of a brand-new dungeon based on the scrapped eighth city, Sutch—an area cut from the original game. Although references to Sutch existed in journal entries and earlier versions of Oblivion’s credits, Skyblivion marks the first time this abandoned city has been fully reconstructed. A reimagined version of the coastal town Anvil is also featured.

"Our mission is to recreate Oblivion using Skyrim's engine. After a decade of dedicated work, we’re nearing our goal and look forward to sharing it worldwide," the team added. "As we approach our targeted 2025 release window, we’re showcasing the Gold Coast, the city of Anvil, multiple Oblivion realms and unique worlds, player customization options, and more.

Skilled modders familiar with Bethesda's Creation Engine are encouraged to apply, as the project continues to welcome volunteers.

In IGN’s review of The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, we scored it 8/10, stating: "The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered offers a superb modernization of a landmark open-world RPG, even if it retains some of the original’s quirky charm and rough edges."