The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion® Game of the Year Edition (2009) Review Summary

Last updated: 2026-05-22
Review summary
  • Highly praised game quality and immersive world
  • Superior RPG experience with large open-world gameplay
  • Enjoyable experience with varied and interesting quests
  • Frequent bugs, glitches, and performance issues
  • Clunky combat and poor leveling system
  • Outdated graphics and repetitive dungeons
The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion® Game of the Year Edition (2009) header

Categories

Open-World ExplorationCharacter CustomizationMagic SystemFaction SystemStory-driven GameplayFirst-Person PerspectiveMod Support

Emotions

Archetypes

Hardware

Windows <8GB VRAMnegativeWindows 8-11GB VRAMmixed

Snapshot History

Positive
Negative
989
92%
352
87%
Sample precision
Helpful reviews
70%
Unhelpful reviews
29%
Protest reviews
0%
Positive points
1008
Negative points
471
Gameplay points
517
Perf. points
111
Rec. points
80
Misc points
3
Point
Highly praised game quality
Description
The game is frequently described as one of the best games of all time, with many players finding it very enjoyable and worth the price. It is praised for its good gameplay, storyline, and overall amazing experience.
Importance
49%
Immersive and beautiful world
Description
The game's world is often described as immersive, beautiful, and vast. Players appreciate the living world and the immersive atmosphere it provides.
Importance
32%
Superior RPG experience
Description
The game is often compared favorably to modern RPGs and is considered one of the best RPGs ever made. It is highly recommended for RPG fans.
Importance
21%
Game holds up well
Description
Many players note that the game still holds up well over the years, with graphics and gameplay that have aged well. It is considered impressive for its time and still looks great.
Importance
21%
Large open-world gameplay
Description
The game offers a true open-world RPG experience with a massive world to explore. Players appreciate the open-world missions and adventures.
Importance
18%
Better story than Skyrim
Description
Many players believe the game has a better story, writing, and quests compared to Skyrim. The main quest and environments are also considered superior.
Importance
17%
Shivering Isles DLC praised
Description
The Shivering Isles DLC is frequently mentioned as the best DLC and a fantastic addition to the game. It is considered one of the best expansions in the series.
Importance
17%
Enjoyable experience
Description
Players find the game enjoyable overall, with a pleasant experience even in modern times. It is considered enjoyable despite its age.
Importance
15%
Good performance on low-end PCs
Description
The game is noted for running well on low-end computers and older hardware. It is considered easy to run on low-spec devices.
Importance
15%
Varied and interesting quests
Description
The game offers a variety of quests that are not just dungeon or cave focused. Players appreciate the fun and interesting quests that do not feel grindy or repetitive.
Importance
14%
Fun and quirky NPCs
Description
The game is filled with fun and quirky characters that players find well-designed and interesting. The NPCs are noted for feeling alive and adding to the game's charm.
Importance
13%
Best in The Elder Scrolls series
Description
Many players consider this game to be the best in The Elder Scrolls series. It is often praised as one of the best games in the series and a great first experience.
Importance
12%
Solid main story
Description
The main story is generally enjoyed by players, who find it entertaining and fine. The main quest is considered solid and enjoyable.
Importance
11%
Charming art style
Description
The game is noted for its charming art style and classic RPG charm. Despite dated graphics, it is considered to have a lot of soul and charm.
Importance
11%
Wonderful soundtrack
Description
The game is praised for its wonderful and atmospheric soundtrack. Players find the music and sound to be incredible and a highlight of the game.
Importance
11%
Quality side quests
Description
The game is praised for its quality side quests, which are considered beautiful and enjoyable. Players appreciate the variety and love in every side quest.
Importance
11%
Spell creation system
Description
The game features a spell creation system that allows players to create custom spells. This mechanic is noted for adding depth to the gameplay.
Importance
11%
Includes all DLCs
Description
The Game of the Year Edition includes all DLCs, providing a comprehensive experience. Players appreciate the inclusion of major expansions and smaller DLCs.
Importance
11%
More accessible than Morrowind
Description
The game is considered easier to tackle and more accessible than Morrowind. It is noted for being simpler and less of a slog to play compared to Morrowind.
Importance
11%