The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim vs The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Skyrim is Bethesda’s landmark open-world RPG set in a Nordic fantasy province, known for its freeform exploration, dragon-shouting Dragonborn, and an enormous modding community that keeps it alive over a decade later.
The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion is an open-world, action role-playing game set in the fantasy world of Cyrodiil. Players can explore the vast environment, complete quests, and engage in combat with various enemies.
Around $39.99 for the Anniversary/Special Edition.
- Enormous freedom
- Best-in-class modding
- Great atmosphere and exploration
- Tons of content
- Engaging storyline
- Large open world to explore
- Complex character creation
- High replayability
- Dated combat and animations
- Bugs without mods
- Re-released many times
- Steep learning curve
- Some quests can be repetitive
- Graphics may appear dated
What reviewers say
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Reviews
4.0 (2)Love it
The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim has been my go-to lately. Great atmosphere and exploration. No real complaints. Would recommend.
Good but flawed
Picked up The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim recently. Upside: enormous freedom. Downside: bugs without mods.
The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Reviews
No reviews yet.
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The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataSkyrim offers newer graphics, massive mod support, and broader platform reach, while Oblivion delivers a deeper storyline and more complex character creation at a higher price.
Key differences
- •Mod support: Skyrim has best‑in‑class PC modding; Oblivion lacks comparable support.
- •Graphics era: Skyrim (2011) is visually newer than Oblivion (2006).
- •Character creation: Oblivion’s system is described as complex, whereas Skyrim uses skill‑based progression.
- •Platform coverage: Skyrim releases on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Switch; Oblivion is only listed for PC.
- •Price: Skyrim ~ $39.99; Oblivion $49.99.
Gameplay & fun factor
Skyrim’s freeform exploration and countless side quests give broader sandbox fun than Oblivion’s more story‑driven play.
Platform availability
Skyrim is on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, and Switch; Oblivion is only documented for PC.
Price & value
Skyrim costs about $39.99 versus Oblivion’s $49.99, offering lower upfront cost with more platforms.
Multiplayer / co‑op
Both are single‑player experiences; no multiplayer features for either.
Content & replayability
Skyrim’s massive mod ecosystem and endless side content boost replayability beyond Oblivion’s base game.
Difficulty & accessibility
Oblivion’s complex character creation and combat may appeal to players seeking deeper systems, though it has a steep learning curve.
Graphics & performance
Skyrim’s later release provides newer graphics; Oblivion’s visuals are noted as dated.
Choose The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim if…
Players who want modern graphics, extensive modding, and widest platform support.
Choose The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion if…
Players who prioritize a richer storyline and deeper character creation despite older graphics.
Common questions
Which game is cheaper?
Skyrim is around $39.99; Oblivion is $49.99.
Can I play on Nintendo Switch?
Yes, Skyrim is available on Switch; Oblivion is not listed for Switch.
Which title has more mod support?
Skyrim offers best‑in‑class mod support on PC, while Oblivion does not have comparable mod infrastructure.