Oblivion Remastered: Is there level scaling in the remaster?

Does TES IV Oblivion Remastered include level scaling that was present in the original game? Our guide explains whether the scaling of enemy and quest levels are present in the remaster and how it can impact your gameplay. We also inform you whether it is possible to completely disable level scaling or limit its range.

• What does level scaling look like in the remaster?
• Can level scaling be turned off?

What does level scaling look like in the remaster?

As a reminder, in the original Oblivion level scaling involved two controversial mechanics:

1. Scaling enemy level to your character's level - at higher levels, regular enemies (e.g. bandits) could also use much better armor. Additionally, stronger monsters could begin to appear in the game world, such as minotaurs. So, by visiting the same place on levels 1 and 20, you might have a wildly different experience, with different enemies and the overall challenge level.
2. Scaling quest rewards to your character's level - for example, completing a level 5 quest could grant you a level 5 sword. This could cause seemingly legendary equipment to have low stats if we completed a specific mission with a low-level character. Additionally, this led to lower tier items becoming too weak later in the game.

The above principles could make the game more difficult especially if we have developed skills unrelated to combat and have levelled up thanks to them. Similar-looking enemies could be more challenging due to their higher endurance and high damage output.

Unfortunately, Oblivion Remastered did not deal with problem of level scaling. The issues with it are pretty similar to the ones described above. This may lead to a situation where playing with a high-level character will be uncomfortable: you will start encountering stronger enemies, while your current weapons will prove to be insufficient.

Can level scaling be turned off?

Unfortunately, it's not possible to disable level scaling in the remaster's settings and set fixed levels for acquired items and encountered enemies.

A possible workaround would be to completely avoid beds and mattresses; this is the only way to trigger the level-up window for distributing skill points. Waiting and fast travel don't trigger leveling. The disadvantage is that despite developing skills, your character's level will not change.

If you play on PC, you can also use mods related to level scaling and reduce their impact. For example:

1. Unleveled Item Rewards - item levels are no longer linked to the current character level.
2. Balanced NPC Level Cap - it sets level limits for all characters inhabiting the game world.

See also:

1. Game guide
2. What is the maximum character level?
3. How to repair equipment?

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered

April 22, 2025

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