Skyblivion, the much-anticipated fan-driven remake of Oblivion within Skyrim’s engine, is building up to its 2025 release. According to a recent development update, the extensive mod is on track to meet this timeline, with only a few tasks remaining before it’s ready for players.
Skyrim has maintained its allure for more than a decade, thanks in large part to a vibrant modding community. These talented creators continually expand what Skyrim can offer, with an impressive range of mods emerging — from little tweaks that enhance the gaming experience to comprehensive redesigns. A fun recent example includes a mod that introduces a classic Fallout: New Vegas mechanic. Skyblivion, however, is on another level, ambitiously recreating an entire game through volunteer efforts. It’s remarkable how close the finish line appears for the passionate team behind it.
In a YouTube video update, the Skyblivion team shared insights into the mod’s current status as of December 2024. This video served as a detailed progress report, outlining the last tasks needed to finalize the project. While the landscaping, interiors, quests, and 3D models are largely done, navmeshing remains a substantial undertaking. This process, which guides NPCs on their navigable paths within the game world, still requires significant attention.
The Skyblivion developers have been diligent in releasing updates throughout the project’s lifespan, offering a sneak peek at what gamers can look forward to upon release. These updates also serve a dual purpose, aiming to attract volunteers willing to contribute their skills for the project’s completion. The endeavor has been massive, sustained only by the dedication and talent of unpaid volunteers donating their time over the years.
Adding to the excitement, whispers suggest that Skyblivion might not be the only way to revisit Oblivion in 2025. Rumors swirling toward the end of last month hint at a potential official Oblivion remake announcement on the horizon, possibly set to be unveiled at an Xbox Direct event soon. Nothing is set in stone yet, but if these rumors prove true, a comparison between the official version and the fan-crafted Skyblivion could make for a fascinating study.
