Elder Scrolls Oblivion Remaster and Clair Obscur RPGs Now on Xbox Game Pass

April 2024 marked a significant month for RPG enthusiasts on Xbox Game Pass with the addition of two notable titles: the remastered Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion and the debut Japanese RPG Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. Both games offer unique experiences that cater to different player preferences, from open-world exploration to immersive, story-driven combat.

The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered

Originally released in 2006, Oblivion is a hallmark open-world RPG set in the medieval fantasy realm of Tamriel. The remastered version, available on Xbox Game Pass, enhances the original with improved graphics, better enemy scaling, more autosave points, and gameplay tweaks such as the ability to sprint. Players embark on a quest to thwart a fanatical cult attempting to open gates to the demonic Oblivion realm.

Oblivion appeals to gamers who enjoy vast, open-ended adventures where exploration and player choice drive the experience. Fans of high-fantasy settings like Game of Thrones or The Wheel of Time will find familiar themes and immersive storytelling. The real-time combat system offers dynamic, sometimes frantic battles, balanced by the ability to outrun foes.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33

Clair Obscur is Sandfall Interactive's debut title, blending Japanese RPG elements with surreal, absurd visuals inspired by France's Belle Époque era. The story centers on Gustave and his team as they attempt to stop the Paintress, a mysterious figure whose yearly painted numbers cause people of that age to vanish.

The game’s combat system innovatively combines turn-based and real-time mechanics, allowing players to dodge and parry attacks during enemy turns. This interactive combat, alongside a unique Picto ability-equipping system, offers a satisfying challenge for players who enjoy strategic depth. The haunting yet beautiful soundtrack further enhances the immersive experience.

Clair Obscur is ideal for players seeking a polished, emotionally engaging story with innovative gameplay and striking visuals reminiscent of Psychonauts. It’s a strong choice for fans of JRPGs like Final Fantasy or Persona who appreciate both narrative depth and combat interactivity.

Choosing Between Oblivion and Clair Obscur

Both games offer rich RPG experiences but cater to different tastes. Oblivion suits players who prefer open-world exploration, freedom of choice, and high-fantasy settings. Clair Obscur appeals to those who want a tightly crafted narrative, innovative combat mechanics, and surreal artistic design.

Both titles are available now on Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, which offers access to hundreds of games across Xbox consoles, PC, and mobile devices for $20 a month, including new releases and multiplayer benefits.