Since its original release over a decade ago, The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion has become a cornerstone in the RPG genre, beloved by millions for its vast open world, immersive storytelling, and flexible gameplay mechanics. With the launch of Oblivion Remastered, the classic game returns to modern platforms with enhanced graphics and smoother gameplay, inviting both longtime fans and new players to experience the magic of Tamriel once again.
One of the most frequent questions among players diving into Oblivion Remastered is: “Which weapons are truly the best?” The game offers a vast arsenal—swords, daggers, axes, maces, bows, and more—each with varying stats, speeds, enchantments, and effects. Not all weapons are created equal, and many can actually hinder your progress if you rely on them too much.
This guide aims to help you separate the wheat from the chaff by highlighting which weapons in Oblivion Remastered offer the best performance and value, and which ones you should avoid at all costs.
The Importance of Understanding Weapon Mechanics
Before we jump into the specific weapons, it’s important to understand how Oblivion Remastered evaluates weapons and what stats matter most in combat.
Each weapon in the game is defined by several core attributes:
Base Damage: This is the raw damage the weapon deals before modifiers or enchantments. Higher base damage generally means more powerful hits.
Speed: Speed determines how quickly you can strike with the weapon. Faster weapons allow for multiple hits in a shorter time, which can be more effective against certain enemies.
Reach: Reach affects how far your attacks can hit. A longer reach gives you an advantage by allowing you to damage enemies before they can counterattack.
Weight and Stamina Usage: Heavier weapons tend to consume more stamina per hit, which can limit how many attacks you can make before tiring.
Enchantments and Special Effects: Unique weapons often come with magical effects such as elemental damage, life absorption, paralysis, or instant kill chances. These effects can dramatically shift combat in your favor.
By balancing these attributes, players can maximize their damage output and survivability. For example, a dagger with low base damage but an instant kill enchantment may be better for stealth-based characters, while a heavy sword with life absorption might suit a frontline warrior.
The REAL Best Weapons in Oblivion Remastered
After thorough analysis and player feedback, here are the weapons that consistently stand out as the best in Oblivion Remastered:
Mehrunes’ Razor
This legendary dagger is famous for its rare ability to instantly kill any opponent on hit. While its base damage is low and it has a short reach, the instant kill effect can turn any fight into a quick victory. This weapon is invaluable for stealth or assassin builds that rely on swift, decisive strikes.
Obtaining Mehrunes’ Razor requires completing the Daedric quest “Pieces of the Past,” adding a layer of challenge but well worth the reward.
Umbra
Umbra is a powerful two-handed sword with an absorb health enchantment, meaning each successful hit restores a portion of your own health. This makes it an excellent choice for melee-focused players who want to maintain their stamina and longevity in battle. Its solid base damage and durability keep it viable throughout the game.
Players usually acquire Umbra after defeating the eponymous boss in the “Umbra” questline, one of the most memorable challenges in Oblivion.
Chillrend
Chillrend is a unique glass sword that comes with a frost enchantment, slowing down enemies with every hit. Its high speed and decent damage make it a versatile weapon, especially for players who prefer quick, tactical combat. The slowing effect can provide critical control during tough encounters.
You can find Chillrend during the Thieves Guild questline, rewarding stealthy players who favor speed and precision.
Goldbrand
A fiery katana that deals additional fire damage, Goldbrand is especially effective against undead foes, such as vampires and skeletons. Its balanced speed and damage, combined with its unique enchantment, make it a fan favorite for those who prefer swift, flashy combat styles.
Goldbrand is typically rewarded after completing the “Knights of the Nine” questline, which also offers rich lore and engaging gameplay.
Keening
Keening is another enchanted dagger, notable for its magical damage component and fast attack speed. While it doesn’t have an instant kill effect like Mehrunes’ Razor, its combination of speed and magic damage makes it deadly for spellblade or stealth characters.
Keening is also part of the “Pieces of the Past” quest, making it a worthy companion to Mehrunes’ Razor for collectors and power gamers alike.
Bow of the Hunt
Archers rejoice: the Bow of the Hunt offers superior range and damage compared to standard bows, and it comes with a paralyzing enchantment that can freeze enemies in place, allowing for easy follow-up shots. This bow excels in ranged combat and is ideal for players who prefer to keep their distance.
It can be obtained as part of a special quest or found in specific locations scattered throughout the game world.
Weapons You Should Avoid: The Trash Ones
Not every weapon in Oblivion Remastered is worth picking up. Some common or low-level weapons quickly become obsolete and can even slow your progress due to poor damage or lack of enchantments.
Rusty and Iron Weapons: These are the starter weapons for many players but quickly become useless as you level up. They have low base damage, slow speed, and no enchantments, making combat unnecessarily difficult once you reach mid-game.
Daedric Claw: Despite its menacing appearance, the Daedric Claw is slow and deals unimpressive damage, especially when compared to other Daedric weapons. It lacks enchantments, which puts it at a disadvantage in many combat situations.
Crude Swords and Axes: These basic weapons have weak stats and are only useful in the very early game or for roleplaying purposes. They rarely come with useful enchantments and are often heavier, consuming more stamina per hit.
Weak Bows: Early bows with low damage and range can frustrate players relying on archery. Investing time and resources into better bows or crafting improved versions is recommended.
How to Choose the Best Weapon for Your Playstyle
Selecting the right weapon in Oblivion Remastered isn’t just about picking the one with the highest damage number. Your character build and combat preferences should guide your choice.
Stealth and Assassin Builds: Daggers like Mehrunes’ Razor and Keening are perfect due to their speed and special effects. Instant kill chances and fast strikes align with stealth tactics.
Melee Tanks and Warriors: Two-handed swords like Umbra and one-handed enchanted swords like Goldbrand help warriors deal heavy damage while sustaining themselves with absorb health effects.
Archers: The Bow of the Hunt is an excellent choice for ranged combat, especially with its paralyzing enchantment to control crowds.
Magic-Blade Hybrids: Weapons with combined physical and magical damage, or those that enhance spellcasting, are ideal for versatile characters blending swordplay and magic.
Experiment with different weapon types and upgrade them using the enchanting and smithing mechanics to find your perfect match.
Tips for Enhancing Your Weapons
Maximizing weapon effectiveness isn’t just about finding the best items; upgrading and enchanting play a critical role.
Enchantments: Adding elemental damage (fire, frost, shock), paralysis, or absorb health effects can turn average weapons into powerful tools. Regularly invest in enchanting to keep your gear competitive.
Smithing and Upgrading: Improving your weapons through the smithing system increases their base damage and durability. A fully upgraded weapon can often outperform some unique weapons in raw stats.
Quest Rewards and Exploration: Many of the best weapons come from quests or hidden locations. Exploring thoroughly and completing side quests can reward you with unique and powerful arms.
The Role of Weapon Choice in Combat Strategy
Combat in Oblivion Remastered isn’t just about brute force; it’s a dynamic system where weapon choice influences how you approach battles.
Speed vs. Power: Fast weapons allow for rapid attacks and dodging, suited for players who rely on mobility. Slower weapons hit harder but require timing and stamina management.
Range and Reach: Weapons with longer reach give you an advantage in keeping enemies at bay. Archers naturally benefit from range, but swords and polearms with longer reach also help control space.
Special Effects: Enchantments like paralysis, damage over time, or health absorption let you control the fight rather than just trade blows. Choosing weapons with the right effects for your enemies is key.
Conclusion: Arm Yourself with Knowledge to Conquer Tamriel
Oblivion Remastered offers a rich and varied arsenal that caters to many playstyles, but not all weapons are worth your time and effort. Knowing which weapons excel and which ones to avoid will help you build a character that’s both powerful and fun to play.
From the instant-killing Mehrunes’ Razor to the life-draining Umbra, the best weapons blend damage, speed, and enchantments to deliver devastating effects. Meanwhile, rusty swords and slow Daedric claws can hold you back in tough battles.
By understanding weapon stats, playstyle synergy, and upgrade paths, you’ll be well-equipped to face the dangers of Tamriel head-on. So gear up wisely, sharpen your blade, and dive into Oblivion Remastered ready to claim victory.
