Oblivion Remastered: Crusader Armor Full Walkthrough

 

Choosing Your Starting Location

To kick off your journey for the Crusader armor in Oblivion Remastered, your first stop is the coastal city of Anvil. Head over using fast travel—it saves time and skips unnecessary travel. As soon as you arrive, don’t just run around; start talking to the locals.

You’re looking for information about the church attack. Any NPC can trigger this—beggars work just fine. After asking, you’ll unlock the quest titled “Pilgrimage”, which becomes the foundation of this entire Crusader gear journey. When the NPC explains that the priests were murdered inside the chapel, things get serious quick.

Now walk toward the chapel, and you’ll notice an older guy ranting in front of it. That’s the Prophet—he’s not hard to miss because he’s loud and dramatic. Start a conversation and explore every dialogue option available.

---

Initiating the Pilgrimage Quest

The Prophet explains that a powerful spirit named Umaril is back, and his revenge mission is wreaking havoc across Cyrodiil. Long ago, Umaril was defeated by the Knights of the Nine, but not permanently. Your mission is to finish what they started.

He’ll give you a Pilgrimage Map that marks the locations of the Way Shrines you need to visit. This part of the quest might seem repetitive, but it’s essential to unlocking the Crusader relics.

Thankfully, you can:

• Use fast travel to major cities (even those you haven’t explored yet)

• Grab a free armored horse outside the Imperial City stables by chatting with the NPCs there

Trust me, both fast travel and the horse make this section way easier to get through.

---

Meeting the Prophet and His Prophecy

The Prophet’s backstory drop is a vital part of the plot. He says Umaril the Unfeathered—a cruel sorcerer-king—escaped destruction by becoming a spirit. Only someone pure of heart can defeat his soul. This mission isn’t just about cool gear—it’s a test of your character’s willpower and devotion.

You’ll be asked to go on a pilgrimage to the Nine Divines. Think of it as a sacred scavenger hunt. Your reward? Access to ancient relics that no ordinary warrior can claim.

With your new map and your divine mission in place, it’s time to track the shrines.

---

Tracking the Way Shrines Across Cyrodiil

Using the map from the Prophet, you’ll visit shrines dedicated to each Divine across Cyrodiil. Most of them are located near the wilderness or outside major cities. Activate each one by praying, and once you’ve completed all of them, a vision will trigger.

During this part of the journey, weird stuff might happen—like getting chased by a hostile unicorn. Just stay focused.

Once all shrines are visited, your character will suddenly freeze up and get teleported into a different realm.

---

Acquiring the Helm of the Crusader

Inside this vision realm, you’ll meet Pelinal Whitestrake—a legendary warrior who once battled Umaril. He’ll explain that only by gathering all the Crusader relics can Umaril be defeated for good.

The first item you’re hunting is the Helm of the Crusader, hidden near an underwater shrine. Use the map to locate it. Once there, you’ll discover the remains of Sir Amiel, a fallen Knight of the Nine. Loot his body to get a key, a ring, and a journal.

After fighting off some skeletons and navigating a few underwater segments, you’ll find the helm resting on a raised platform. Depending on your agility, you might need to use some jumping skills to reach it.

The helm provides:

• +2 Restoration

• +25 Personality

The type (heavy or light armor) depends on your dominant armor skill when the quest starts.

---

Unlocking the Secret Tomb in the Priory

With the helm in your inventory, make your way to the Priory of the Nine—marked on your map. Enter the main hall and go left. You’ll see a glowing circle etched into the floor. Equip the ring from Sir Amiel, and the floor will open, revealing a secret passage.

Go through the door and walk into a hidden tomb belonging to the original Knights of the Nine. Ahead, you’ll spot the Crusader's Cuirass, but don't try to grab it just yet.

You’ll be challenged to prove your worth.

---

Claiming Crusader Armor After the Trial

One by one, the ghosts of the fallen knights will rise and challenge you to single combat. Thankfully, it’s one-on-one fights—classic knight etiquette. Once you’ve defeated them all, they’ll recognize your valor and grant you access to the cuirass.

Stats for the Crusader Cuirass:

• +2 Restoration

• +15% damage resistance (normal weapons)

• +15 Health bonus

After equipping the armor, talk to each kneeling knight. They’ll give you new quests to collect the remaining relics. These side quests can be completed in any order, except for the mace quest, which must be saved for last.

---

Collecting Boots, Gauntlets & Shield

Boots of the Crusader
Travel to the Shrine of Kynareth, and a priestess will explain the Grove of Trials. When the trial begins, a bear appears. Do not fight it. Simply dodge its attacks and let it walk away. If you survive without hurting it, you pass the test.

These boots grant:

• +2 Restoration

Gauntlets of the Crusader
Head to Chorrol and speak with Kellen in the chapel. His family is cursed—he can’t even lift the gauntlets. After some dialogue, speak with the elder priest who explains how to help Kellen. You’ll receive the Lay Hands spell after praying at the pedestal.

Use the spell on Kellen to lift the curse. You’ll then be able to pick up the gauntlets, which give:

• +5 Restoration

• +50% Disease Resistance

Shield of the Crusader
Go to Fort Bulwark. This dungeon is full of loot and complex puzzles. Make sure you’ve got inventory space.

Puzzle 1:

• First Row: Left tile

• Second Row: Middle tile

• Third Row: Right tile

• Last Row: Left tile again

Puzzle 2:

• Stand at the entrance and place items from left to right in this order:
  Red Diamond, Skull, Hammer, Book, Sword, Goblet, Helm, White Stone

Once done, the statues rotate, revealing the shield.

Shield bonus:

• Reflects 10% of spell damage

---

Retrieving the Mace and Defeating Umaril’s Minions

Your next goal is the Mace of the Crusader, which is locked behind the final relic quest. Travel to Leyawiin Chapel. You’ll get teleported to a new dimension after entering.

Walk the glowing path and claim the mace. It delivers:

• +4 Fire damage

• Level 3 Turn Undead effect

Immediately after, Umaril’s spirit minions will storm the chapel. Wipe them out and head back to the Priory.

There, you’ll be greeted by Lathon, a squire of Sir Roderic, who gifts you the Greaves of the Crusader.

Greaves bonus:

• +2 Restoration

• +5 Destruction

---

Purifying the Sword of the Crusader

For the final relic, you’ll head to Underpall Cave to defeat a Cursed Wraith. Once slain, you’ll receive the Sword of the Crusader.

Sword Stats:

• +4 Fire damage

• +15 Magicka damage

Before using the sword, visit the Chapel of Arkay in Cheydinhal for purification. Once blessed, the sword reaches its full power.

---

Final Showdown with Umaril and Spirit Realm

Now fully equipped, it’s time to face Umaril in his stronghold: Garlas Malatar. The dungeon is loaded with tough enemies, but your Crusader set should make a difference.

After defeating Umaril’s physical body, loot his two-handed sword, which deals:

• +4 Shock Damage

• +5 Fatigue Damage

Finally, cast the Blessing of Talos spell. This transports you to a separate plane where you can destroy Umaril’s spirit for good.

Congratulations—you’ve completed the full Knights of the Nine walkthrough and now own some of the best armor in Oblivion Remastered.

Conclusion

Getting the full Crusader armor set and weapons in Oblivion Remastered takes time, but it’s worth the effort. From locating hidden shrines and defeating ancient knights to solving puzzles and fighting Umaril himself, the Knights of the Nine questline delivers some of the most rewarding content in the game. Each relic boosts your stats in meaningful ways and is tailored to restoration, personality, and divine combat efficiency.

By following this walkthrough, you’ll not only collect the full gear set, but also experience one of the most iconic stories in The Elder Scrolls series. Whether you're aiming to dominate in combat or just want to explore every major quest, this gear makes a major difference. Good luck out there, champion.

---

FAQ: Oblivion Remastered Crusader Armor Guide

Where does the Crusader quest start?
You start in Anvil by asking NPCs about the chapel attack, which triggers the “Pilgrimage” quest.

Can I get the relics in any order?
Yes, except the Mace quest which must be completed last for the sequence to function properly.

Do the Crusader armor pieces scale to my stats?
Yes. Each piece comes in either light or heavy armor depending on your highest skill when you begin.

How do I get a horse early in the game?
Go to the stables outside the Imperial City to get a free armored horse from one of the NPCs.

What does the Sword of the Crusader do after purification?
It deals fire damage and magicka damage but requires purification at the Chapel of Arkay in Cheydinhal before use.

What happens if I try the Mace quest early?
You’ll fall through a trap and won’t be able to progress. Complete all other relic quests first.

---

Stay Connected with Haplo Gaming Chef

Haplo Gaming Chef blends gaming guides with casual cooking streams for a truly unique viewer experience. Whether you’re here for clean, no-nonsense walkthroughs or just want to chill with some cozy cooking content between game sessions, this is the place for you. From full game unlock guides to live recipe prep and casual chats, Haplo Gaming Chef delivers content that’s both informative and enjoyable.

You Can Follow Along On Every Major Platform:

YouTube, Twitch, TikTok, Instagram, Twitter/X, Threads, Bluesky, Pinterest, Flipboard, Facebook, LinkedIn, Tumblr, Medium, Blogger, and even on Google Business.

No filler, no fluff—just straight-up help for gamers and fun for foodies. Join the community today!
For More Guides Visit: Haplo Gaming Chef Website!

Read More

Master Spellmaking in Oblivion Remastered: Ultimate Guide for Custom Spells

 

Understanding Spellmaking in Oblivion Remastered

Spellmaking in The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered lets you design powerful, personalized magic spells using the Altar of Spellmaking. Unlike preset spells you buy or find, this system gives you total control over what your spell does, how strong it is, and how much Magicka it costs. If you're coming from Skyrim, this is a new system for you—and it opens the door to tons of flexible and powerful options.

The Altar lets you merge multiple magical effects into a single spell. Want to heal yourself while damaging an enemy? You can. Want to create a sneaky buff right before a heist? No problem. But to do it right, you'll need to learn how each setting—magnitude, duration, range—affects your spell's cost and usability.

---

Where and How to Access the Altar of Spellmaking

There are two ways to access the Altar of Spellmaking in Oblivion Remastered. The first is the official route: complete recommendations from every local Mages Guild to earn access to the Arcane University, where you’ll find the altar. The second method is simpler but requires the Frostcrag Spire add-on. Buy the Magetallow Candle upgrade for your player home and the altar becomes available there—no guild quests needed.

Once you're at the altar, the left side of the menu will show a list of magical effects. Only effects from spells you already know and can currently cast will appear. That means the more diverse your spell collection and magic skills, the more options you'll have for custom spells.

---

Navigating the Spellmaking Interface

When creating a custom spell, you’ll first be prompted to give it a name. Choose something memorable. Since Oblivion's spell menu gets crowded fast, naming your spells clearly will save you headaches later. A good strategy is to add numbers or tags, especially for effects like Feather that can stack. For example, “Feather 1”, “Feather 2” ensures they're grouped together in your spell list for easy casting in succession.

After naming your spell, you’ll select the magical effect from the left menu. This could be anything from Absorb Health to Shock Damage, Fortify Intelligence, or Soul Trap.

---

Setting Range: Self, Touch, or Target

Once you’ve picked an effect, it’s time to set the range:

• Self: The effect only applies to you.

• Touch: The effect triggers when you make contact with an NPC or creature.

• Target: This turns your spell into a projectile you can launch from a distance.

Each type affects Magicka cost. Projectiles (Target) typically cost more due to their range advantage. Choose wisely based on how you'll use the spell—support buffs are usually best on Self, while offensive magic might call for Touch or Target.

---

Adjusting Magnitude, Duration, and Area

Every spell you create has three sliders:

• Magnitude: How strong the effect is (e.g. 15 points of Fire Damage).

• Duration: How long the effect lasts (e.g. 10 seconds).

• Area: How wide the effect reaches (e.g. 20 feet radius for fire explosion).

The more you push these sliders, the higher the Magicka cost. Be careful not to make spells you can’t afford to cast. A good rule of thumb is to balance moderate magnitude with longer duration, especially if you're stacking multiple effects.

---

Avoiding Magicka Overload

Powerful spells look great on paper, but if they use too much Magicka, they might leave you defenseless. You can't cast spells that exceed your current maximum Magicka, so it’s important to keep your stats in mind.

For example, a fire spell that deals 30 points of damage over 3 seconds might look flashy, but if it costs 120 Magicka and you only have 90, it’s useless until you increase your pool. Always double-check cost before saving a custom spell.

---

Adding Multiple Effects to One Spell

The real power of spellmaking is combining multiple effects into one. You can pair things like Restore Health with Fortify Endurance, or Shock Damage with Weakness to Magic. Just make sure your magic skills are high enough to cast all the included effects. Otherwise, the spell won’t work.

Also note: as you add more effects, the total Magicka cost rises quickly. It’s easy to overload the spell with power that exceeds your casting ability. Test and tweak each version before settling on the final one.

---

Optimizing Spell Efficiency

Here's a trick: high magnitude over short duration is usually more expensive than lower magnitude over a longer duration—even if the total effect is the same. For example:

• 20 pts Fire Damage for 5 sec = 100 total damage = 52 Magicka

• 10 pts Fire Damage for 10 sec = 100 total damage = 42 Magicka

That 10-point difference might not seem like much, but when you're stacking effects, it adds up fast. Use longer durations with moderate magnitudes for better efficiency, especially in damage-over-time builds.

---

Strategic Weakness Stacking

One of the best advanced techniques in Oblivion spellmaking is weakness stacking. You can create two different spells with the same weakness effect (like Weakness to Magic or Weakness to Shock) and alternate between them. Each cast stacks the weakness, making your next damaging spell massively more powerful.

Example strategy:

• Cast Weakness to Shock + Weakness to Magic (100%, 5 sec, Touch)

• Cast another similar spell with a different name to stack

• Finally, cast a Shock Damage spell (e.g. 10 pts for 10 sec, Touch)

The resulting damage is amplified several times. This works especially well on high-level enemies or boss fights.

---

Soul Trap and Effect Order Tips

Effect order matters. For Soul Trap, always put it at the top of your custom spell and make sure it lasts longer than the damage effect. If Soul Trap wears off before the enemy dies, you won’t capture the soul.

On the flip side, for Weakness effects, place them at the bottom of your list. That way, they apply first when the spell hits, and the follow-up spell benefits from the amplified damage right away.

---

Combining Elemental Damage for Magicka Savings

Mixing damage types can actually lower the cost. Instead of casting one big fireball, try combining smaller doses of Fire, Frost, and Shock into one spell. You’ll still deal 30 total points of elemental damage, but at a lower Magicka cost than using a single element.

This is especially useful against enemies who resist specific elements. By combining multiple types, you hedge your bets and ensure some damage always gets through.

---

Useful Custom Spell Ideas for Daily Gameplay

Here are a few practical examples of spells you can create for regular gameplay:

• Feather Spell Stackers: Create several Feather spells with different names (Feather 1, Feather 2, etc.) so they stack in your menu and cast easily one after the other.

• Fortify Armorer (100 pts, 1 sec, Self): Cast right before opening the repair menu. You’ll fix everything without losing a repair hammer.

• Sneak and Chameleon Boost: Use Fortify Sneak + Chameleon at 100 pts for 1–3 seconds to get an edge before a pickpocket or stealth mission.

• Charm & Mercantile Combo: Pair Charm on Touch with Fortify Mercantile (100 pts, 1 sec, Self) right before speaking with merchants to raise disposition and haggle better prices.

Conclusion: Custom Spellmaking is Your Most Powerful Tool

Mastering the Altar of Spellmaking in Oblivion Remastered transforms how you play. It lets you build spells that perfectly match your playstyle—whether that's high-damage offense, stealth utility, or efficient Magicka use. By understanding how magnitude, duration, and area affect cost, and by learning techniques like weakness stacking or combining elemental effects, you unlock some of the strongest and most cost-effective spells in the game.

Experimenting is part of the fun, so don’t be afraid to test different setups. And remember, the best custom spells aren't always the flashiest—they're the ones that get the job done exactly how and when you need them to.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Altar of Spellmaking in Oblivion?
It’s a game feature that allows you to create custom spells by combining multiple magical effects into one. It becomes available through the Arcane University or Frostcrag Spire.

Can you stack spells in Oblivion?
Yes. You can create multiple custom spells with similar effects (like Feather or Weakness to Magic) and cast them in succession to stack them.

Is there a way to reduce Magicka cost when crafting spells?
Yes. Use lower magnitude and longer duration for similar total effect but less Magicka cost. Also, mixing elements (fire, frost, shock) helps reduce total cost.

Do spell effect orders matter when crafting?
Yes. Place Soul Trap first in the list and ensure it lasts longer than damage effects. Place Weakness effects last so they apply before the next damaging spell.

What’s a good beginner spell to create?
A basic healing spell or a Feather spell for carrying more items. Both are easy to cast and extremely useful.

---

Stay Connected with Haplo Gaming Chef

Haplo Gaming Chef blends gaming guides with casual cooking streams for a truly unique viewer experience. Whether you’re here for clean, no-nonsense walkthroughs or just want to chill with some cozy cooking content between game sessions, this is the place for you. From full game unlock guides to live recipe prep and casual chats, Haplo Gaming Chef delivers content that’s both informative and enjoyable.

You Can Follow Along On Every Major Platform:

YouTube, Twitch, TikTok, Instagram, Twitter/X, Threads, Bluesky, Pinterest, Flipboard, Facebook, LinkedIn, Tumblr, Medium, Blogger, and even on Google Business.

No filler, no fluff—just straight-up help for gamers and fun for foodies. Join the community today!
For More Guides Visit: Haplo Gaming Chef Website!

Read More

Top Custom Spells You Must Try in Oblivion Remastered (Console & PC)

 

If you're diving into Oblivion Remastered and want to shake up your gameplay, custom spells are where the real fun begins. Whether you want to sprint across Cyrodiil like lightning, glide over lakes on horseback, or drop enemies with one touch, spellmaking lets you break the limits of what’s possible. This guide covers the most powerful, creative, and effective custom spells you can craft—perfect for both PC and console players.

We’ll walk you through each step: how to unlock spellmaking, where to get the components, and how to create spells that can boost your stats, disable enemies instantly, or save you tons of gold. From utility spells to complete combat game-changers, this is your complete guide to dominating Oblivion Remastered with custom magic.

How to Unlock Spellmaking in Oblivion Remastered

Before crafting game-breaking spells, you need access to a spellmaking altar. There are two main paths to unlock it. The long route is through the Arcane University in the Imperial City. To get inside, you’ll need seven recommendations—one from each major city’s Mages Guild. After completing the quests in each city, you’ll earn full access to the University’s facilities, including the altar of spellmaking.

If you're looking for a quicker method, head straight to Frostcrag Spire. All you need is the key, which is conveniently stored in a chest behind the tower. After grabbing it, enter the spire and read the book inside to start a short unlock quest. This leads you back to the Mystic Emporium in the Market District, where you can buy two Mage’s Tallow Candles—one for the spellmaking altar and one for enchanting. Once placed on their respective altars in Frostcrag Spire, you're all set to start crafting your own spells.

Create a Super Speed Spell for Faster Travel

Once your altar is ready, it’s time to make a spell that drastically boosts your movement speed. First, visit the Warrior Stone, which grants you temporary access to boost both attributes and skills. Activate the stone at night for best results. Back at your altar, choose Fortify Attribute, then select Speed and target Self. Set the magnitude to 100 and the duration to 20 seconds (you can adjust the duration if you want it to last longer, but that’ll cost more magicka and gold).

Next, add Fortify Skill, go to Athletics, and again target Self. Set it to the same magnitude and duration as Speed. Give your spell a name like “Speed Burst” and create it. The result? A major boost in both running and swimming speed. Compared to your default movement, this spell makes exploration far smoother and faster, especially when traveling between distant locations.

Make Your Horse Run on Water (Yes, Really)

What if you could boost your horse’s speed and let it run across water? You can, and it’s one of the coolest custom spell tricks in Oblivion Remastered. First, buy the Sea Stride spell from Trayvond the Redguard in the Chorrol Mages Guild. This gives you access to the Water Walking effect at the spellmaking altar.

Now build your spell. Start with Fortify Attribute: Speed, then select Touch as the target. Set the magnitude to 100 and duration to 20 seconds. Add Fortify Skill: Athletics, again set to Touch. Finally, add Water Walking, also set to Touch, and give it a duration of 20 seconds. Name your spell something like “Horse Glide” and save it.

When you’re beside your horse, cast the spell on it. Your mount will not only speed up dramatically but will also run across lakes and rivers as if they were land. It’s perfect for fast travel or avoiding enemy encounters during exploration.

Craft an Instant Paralyze Spell for Easy Combat Wins

Paralyzing enemies instantly is one of the best tactics in Oblivion Remastered. Head south of Leyawiin to locate the Serpent Stone—you’ll need to activate it at night. This grants you a free Paralyze effect to use in spell creation. While you can buy a paralyze spell from the Bravil Mages Guild, this method saves gold.

To make your custom spell, go to your altar and select Paralyze, set the target to Touch, and duration to 1 second. This short stun time is enough to knock most enemies down, giving you free hits without using much magicka. You can also increase the area of effect to hit multiple enemies, but that’ll raise the cost and skill requirements. It’s great for crowd control or stopping tougher foes before they reach you.

Drain Enemy Stamina with the Absorb Fatigue Spell

Another powerful trick is to sap your enemy’s stamina and make them collapse mid-fight. To do this, visit the Mystic Emporium in the Imperial City’s Market District and purchase an Absorb Fatigue spell. Once you have it, head back to your spellmaking altar.

Choose Absorb Fatigue, target it to Touch, set the magnitude to 5, and duration to 30 seconds. Name it something fun like “Instant Faint.” When you cast this spell, it drains the target's stamina and transfers it to you. The result? Enemies try to attack, lose balance, and fall over in a ragdoll animation. It’s not only effective—it’s hilarious. Plus, you recover stamina while weakening them, making it both offensive and defensive.

Charm Everyone and Get the Best Prices with One Spell

Need better deals in shops or want to boost NPC dispositions fast? Crafting a Charm + Personality + Mercantile combo spell is your best option. Start by heading to Bravil Mages Guild, and purchase the Voice of Rapture charm spell. This unlocks the Charm effect at the altar.

At your spellmaking altar, first add Fortify Attribute: Personality, set to Self, magnitude 100, duration 2–3 seconds. Next, choose Fortify Skill: Mercantile, also Self, same settings. Then add Charm, but set it to Target, magnitude 100, and duration 2 seconds. Since dialogue freezes time, even a short duration works perfectly. Cast the spell right before talking to any vendor and enjoy instant 100 disposition. Prices drop, selling value increases, and interactions become way smoother.

Make Repair Hammers Unbreakable with Master Repair

Repair hammers break constantly—unless you know this trick. With one custom spell, you can make them nearly unbreakable and boost your Armorer skill too. Go to your altar and select Fortify Skill, then choose Armorer. Set the target to Self, magnitude 100, and duration around 2–3 seconds. Name it something simple like “Master Repair.”

Before you repair gear, just cast this spell. Without it, your repair hammers have a high chance to break. But with this buff active, that chance drops significantly—and you actually use fewer hammers in total. It’s a great money-saver and helps level your Armorer skill faster. It doesn’t matter if your actual Armorer level is low; this spell makes repairs efficient even at beginner levels.

Survive Massive Falls and Jump Higher with a Custom Acrobatics Spell

If you’ve ever died from a huge fall in Oblivion Remastered, this spell is your fix. Start by finding a Runestone that grants Fortify Health—you’ll need at least 30 Fame, and it has to be nighttime. Once unlocked, head back to your altar to build the spell.

First, select Fortify Skill: Acrobatics, target Self, and set the magnitude to 100. Choose a duration based on your magicka—20 to 120 seconds works well. Then add Fortify Health, again on Self, magnitude 100, same duration. This combo boosts jump height and cushions fall damage. You’ll be able to leap over obstacles and survive drops that would normally kill you. For added effect, enchant armor pieces with Fortify Acrobatics using soul gems—especially boots. Stack this with your spell, and the vertical movement becomes wild.

Conclusion: Break the Game with Custom Magic

Custom spells in Oblivion Remastered completely change the way you play. From speed boosts and water-walking to paralyzing enemies and getting the best deals in shops, there’s no limit to what you can create. Whether you're on PC or console, unlocking the spellmaking altar opens the door to gameplay that's faster, smarter, and a lot more fun. Use this guide to build spells that fit your style and turn your character into a magic-powered powerhouse.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How do I unlock spellmaking in Oblivion Remastered?
A: Either complete Mages Guild recommendation quests or unlock Frostcrag Spire with a key and Mage's Tallow Candles.

Q: What’s the best early-game custom spell?
A: The super speed + athletics boost. It’s easy to make and makes travel much faster.

Q: Can custom spells be used on horses or companions?
A: Yes! Use “Touch” as the target when building the spell, and it will apply to others like your horse.

Q: Does spell duration matter when talking to NPCs?
A: Not really. Menus pause time, so even 2-second charm spells work perfectly in shops.

Q: Are these spells console-friendly?
A: Yes, they work the same way on consoles. Just be sure you’ve unlocked the spellmaking altar.

Read More

Best Sword and Shield Build in Oblivion Remastered (2025 Guide)

 

Introduction

Building a solid sword and shield setup in Oblivion Remastered can turn your character into a near-unstoppable force. Whether you're planning to tank heavy damage, bash enemies into submission, or hold the line in expert-level battles, this guide has you covered. In this 2025 update, we’ll break down every component that makes this build powerful—from race and birthsign to combat strategies and gear choices. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or diving back into Cyrodiil for the first time in years, this sword and shield combat guide will help you get the most out of your playthrough.

Best Race Options for a Sword and Shield Build

Choosing the right race is a big deal when aiming for the best tank build in Oblivion Remastered. While there's no strict “best” choice, some races clearly offer better bonuses for defensive play and melee combat.

Here are the top picks:

• Breton

  • Why it works: Bretons start with a 50% resistance to magic, which is huge for absorbing elemental damage, especially in higher difficulties. They also gain extra magicka, which helps for restoration and utility spells even if you're not a full-on caster.

  • Playstyle bonus: Excellent choice if you like to blend defense with occasional spell use.

• Dark Elf (Dunmer)

  • Why it works: These guys have a 75% resistance to fire, which is the most common element used by enemies in Oblivion. Also solid bonuses to blade weapons and ranged attacks.

  • Playstyle bonus: Great for players who want extra elemental resistance while staying agile.

• Redguard, Orc, or Nord

  • Why they work: These three are all physically focused races.

    • Redguards have adrenaline rush for burst combat and start with strong blade skills.

    • Orcs get Berserk for damage and defense, plus bonus armor skills.

    • Nords have frost resistance and a good balance of strength and endurance.

  • Playstyle bonus: Perfect for players who want to go full melee, tank hits, and crush enemies up close.

• Imperial

  • Why it works (sort of): Imperials move faster and have good speechcraft, but they’re less ideal defensively.

  • Playstyle bonus: Viable, but not optimal unless you’re roleplaying or love versatility.

Pro Tip: If you're unsure, pick Breton. It offers top-tier survivability across all difficulties.

---

Choosing a Birthsign: Survivability or Utility?

In Oblivion Remastered, birthsigns offer permanent bonuses that shape your entire gameplay. Here's how they stack up for this build:

• The Lord

  • What it gives: A built-in shield spell that increases armor and 15% extra magic resistance.

  • Why it works: Perfect synergy with a shield-based fighter. Early-game defense skyrockets, and you stay alive longer without much effort.

• The Atronach

  • What it gives: 50% spell absorption and +150 magicka, but no magicka regeneration.

  • Why it works: You become a spell-absorbing wall. But managing your magicka gets tricky without regen, so it’s for experienced players.

• The Warrior

  • What it gives: Boosts Strength and Endurance, both crucial for melee damage and health.

  • Why it works: Straightforward and reliable. This is the “pure fighter” pick.

• The Lady

  • What it gives: Increases Willpower (better fatigue regen) and Endurance.

  • Why it works: Great if you want your stamina to bounce back quickly between blocks and bashes.

• The Thief

  • What it gives: Boosts Speed, Agility, and Luck.

  • Why it works: Decent secondary pick if you want faster movement and critical hits, but not a top-tier choice for tanking.

Best Overall Picks:

• Lord for balance and defense.

• Atronach for advanced tanking.

• Warrior for damage-focused melee.

Core Attributes to Prioritize for Maximum Effectiveness

In Oblivion Remastered, attributes directly influence your health, fatigue, and combat effectiveness. With a sword and shield build, some attributes are far more impactful than others.

Here’s the breakdown of what to focus on:

• Endurance (Top Priority)

  • Why it's critical: Endurance controls your maximum health and health regeneration. Increasing this early on lets you survive longer and heal faster passively.

  • Level it first: Max this out as early as possible for long-term survivability.

• Strength

  • Why it matters: Strength affects melee damage and carrying capacity. Hitting harder and hauling more loot makes gameplay smoother.

  • Combine it with Endurance for a balanced offensive-defensive combo.

• Willpower

  • What it does: Boosts magicka regeneration and fatigue recovery. Even if you don’t use many spells, faster fatigue recovery helps you block, bash, and stay mobile in combat.

  • Great for sustainability, especially in longer fights.

• Agility

  • Impact: Affects fatigue recovery and determines how often you stagger or resist staggering.

  • Secondary focus that supports your shield-heavy combat style.

• Speed

  • Why it’s nice to have: Boosts movement speed, which helps with positioning and avoiding hits when needed.

  • Not essential, but useful.

• Luck (Optional but Long-Term Beneficial)

  • Every action benefits slightly from higher Luck, and it’s hard to level. If you're min-maxing, putting points into Luck over time is smart.

Suggested Leveling Focus Order:

1. Max Endurance

2. Increase Strength

3. Balance Willpower and Agility

4. Add Speed or Luck as needed

---

Custom Class Setup for Sword and Shield Builds

Rather than choosing a pre-built class like Warrior, you’ll get much more flexibility and power by making a custom class tailored to this build.

Specialization:

• Combat

  • Gives you +5 to combat-related skills and faster growth in Strength and Endurance. Essential for any melee fighter.

Major Skills (Choose 7):
Here are the best choices for a tanky, sword-and-shield setup:

1. Blade – Your primary damage-dealing skill. Essential.

2. Block – Reduces damage while guarding and unlocks shield bash abilities.

3. Heavy Armor – Better protection and slower movement, but perfect for tanks.

4. Armorer – Lets you repair gear mid-dungeon, saving tons of gold and stress.

5. Restoration – Healing spells are lifesavers in tough battles.

6. Alchemy – Make your own fatigue, health, and buff potions to stay self-sufficient.

7. Conjuration – Summon allies to draw aggro and act as secondary shields.

Alternative Major Skills (Optional Swaps):

• Alteration – If you prefer magical shields over summons.

• Sneak – If you like to stealthily approach enemies before initiating tanky combat.

• Marksman – For players who want a bow for backup ranged attacks.

• Light Armor – Trade-off for speed and less fatigue drain if you don’t want to use heavy armor.

Playstyle Tip:
Mix defensive magic (Restoration, Conjuration, or Alteration) with your melee setup to gain a tactical edge in tougher fights. Summons or shield spells are game-changers on Expert and Master difficulties.

Best Skills in Action: What They Actually Do in Combat

Here’s how your major skills translate into reliable battlefield performance:

• Blade

  • Your go-to for offensive damage.

  • Leveling Tip: Use it consistently in combat. Get sneak attacks when possible for bonus XP and damage.

  • Impact: Increases damage output and unlocks better attack moves (like strong power slashes at higher skill levels).

• Block

  • One of your most important tools.

  • At 75 skill: Unlocks the shield bash, which staggers enemies, opening them up to counterattacks.

  • Bonus: Block uses stamina, not health, so it reduces incoming damage efficiently when managed well.

• Heavy Armor

  • Absorbs more physical damage than light armor.

  • Trade-off: You move slower and burn fatigue faster.

  • Synergy: Works well with Block to make you a front-line wall.

• Armorer

  • Lets you repair your own gear anywhere, avoiding costly repairs and broken armor mid-dungeon.

  • Pro Tip: Carry repair hammers and keep your gear in top shape—especially your shield.

• Restoration

  • Lets you heal in between fights and even during combat.

  • Tip: Level this early by casting low-cost healing spells after each fight.

• Alchemy

  • Create your own fatigue, health, and resistance potions.

  • Vital Role: Lets you recover fatigue fast after blocking or shield bashing.

  • Also gives you access to poisons for added blade damage.

• Conjuration

  • Summon creatures to draw enemy attention.

  • Why it matters: You’ll be tanking hits, but having a summoned ally means you take fewer. It’s like adding a second shield to your party.

---

Combat Strategy Tips for Sword and Shield Success

Sword and shield combat isn’t just about standing still and soaking hits. It’s dynamic, and mastering these strategies will help you breeze through higher difficulties:

1. Block Often, Bash When Needed

• Hold block as enemies attack. This uses fatigue instead of health, reducing damage taken.

• Once you hit Block 75, use shield bash to interrupt enemy attacks and stagger them.

2. Monitor Fatigue Carefully

• Fatigue governs your ability to block, bash, and even how effective your attacks are.

• Keep potions handy (made via Alchemy or bought) to refill fatigue in mid-combat.

• If you run out, you’ll get staggered more often and block less effectively.

3. Use Restoration Between and During Fights

• A low-cost healing spell is often better than waiting for health regen.

• Tip: Assign healing to a hotkey so you can react fast in battle.

4. Combine Summons with Shield Play

• Summon a skeleton or zombie before combat.

• Tactic: Let the summon take initial aggro while you flank or absorb damage with your shield.

• Great way to survive in Expert or Master difficulty.

5. Take Advantage of Terrain

• Fight in narrow hallways or doorways to limit enemy movement.

• Use your shield to hold enemies at bay while your summon or allies dish out damage.

6. Rotate Equipment Strategically

• Carry both a one-handed sword and backup shield in case durability drops.

• Spellbreaker (more on this later) is an ideal shield for its reflect spell effect.

Top Gear Recommendations for Sword and Shield Builds

What you wear and wield in Oblivion Remastered plays a major role in how well you perform in combat. These are the best weapons, shields, and armor options for this playstyle.

Best Shield: Spell Breaker

• Why it’s the top choice:

  • Reflect Spell (30%) on Self: Reflects a portion of incoming magic back at the caster, which is essential for survival, especially on higher difficulties.

  • High armor rating and good durability make it ideal for long fights.

• How to get it: Usually acquired through Daedric quests or mods depending on your version.

Recommended Weapon: One-Handed Sword (High Damage, Fast Strikes)

• Choose swords with:

  • High durability

  • Enchantments like fire damage, shock, or absorb health

• Look for blade speed over sheer power—it helps you interrupt enemies after shield bashes.

Heavy Armor Sets

• Daedric Armor (Late Game):

  • Best armor rating, heavy but very tanky.

• Ebony Armor (Mid Game):

  • Great middle option—good defense without the extreme weight of Daedric.

• Dwarven or Steel Armor (Early Game):

  • Easy to find early on and still offers solid protection.

Enchantments to Look For

• Fortify Fatigue: Helps sustain longer fights.

• Fortify Health: More cushion when enemies land hits.

• Reflect Damage or Resist Magic: Essential for enemies with strong spells.

---

Using Potions and Spells to Boost Combat Efficiency

You won’t always be able to out-damage or out-block everything. Here's how to supplement your build with consumables and magic.

Top Potions to Craft or Carry

• Restore Fatigue: Crucial after multiple blocks and shield bashes.

• Restore Health: Keep spamming them when Restoration isn't fast enough.

• Fortify Strength or Endurance: Temporarily increase your damage and survivability in tough fights.

• Resist Magic / Fire / Frost / Shock: Counter specific spellcasters or dungeons.

Key Spells to Learn

• Restoration:

  • Heal Major Wounds / Heal Serious Wounds – Mid-level healing spells that scale well.

  • Fortify Health or Fatigue: Prep before entering fights.

• Alteration (if chosen):

  • Shield Spells: Adds extra armor temporarily—can be cast before battle.

• Conjuration:

  • Summon Skeleton / Zombie / Scamp: Distraction and support while you tank.

Combat Combo Tip

• Enter combat with:

  1. Summon ally

  2. Cast shield spell (Alteration) or buff (Restoration)

  3. Engage with block > bash > counterattack

  4. Heal with potions or magic as needed

Sustainability is your strength. You don’t win fights fast—you win them smart and steady.

Choosing the Right Race for a Sword and Shield Warrior

Each race in Oblivion offers different bonuses, but some stand out more than others when your build relies on defense, stamina, and melee power.

Top Race Picks

• Breton

  • +50% Magic Resistance: Perfect for surviving against spellcasters.

  • Bonus Magicka: Not vital for this build, but helpful if you use Restoration or Conjuration.

  • Why Choose: Ideal for players who want strong defensive capabilities against both physical and magical threats.

• Dark Elf (Dunmer)

  • +75% Fire Resistance: Fire is the most common damage type in Oblivion.

  • Balanced Stat Boosts: Supports both melee and stealth/magic.

  • Why Choose: Great hybrid choice for players who want to dip into stealth or ranged.

• Orc

  • Berserk Power: Huge damage spike when used right.

  • Natural bonuses to Heavy Armor and Blade.

  • Why Choose: Excellent front-line brawler with strong survivability.

• Redguard

  • Adrenaline Rush: Restores stamina fast.

  • High natural fatigue regen and strong Blade/Block skills.

  • Why Choose: Great choice for stamina-focused builds and fast-paced melee fighting.

• Nord

  • Frost Resistance: Useful in northern dungeons and against frost mages.

  • Natural bonuses to Blade and Block.

  • Why Choose: Pure melee-focused race that thrives in direct combat.

Other Considerations

• Imperials have better speechcraft and some combat perks but aren’t optimal.

• If you want pure defense, Breton is your best pick. For aggressive melee, go Redguard or Orc.

---

Birthsigns That Boost This Build

Picking a birthsign tailors your strengths. Here are the top signs for your melee shield warrior:

Top Picks

• The Lord

  • +50% Weakness to Fire, but:

  • 15% Shield passive armor bonus

  • 15% Magic Resistance

  • Why Choose: Extra protection right from the start without needing magic.

• The Atronach

  • Absorbs 50% of incoming spells

  • +150 Magicka pool

  • Drawback: No natural magicka regen.

  • Why Choose: Best for tanking mages. Combine with Alchemy to recover magicka with potions.

• The Warrior

  • +10 Strength and Endurance

  • Why Choose: Boosts your damage and survivability early game.

• The Lady

  • +10 Willpower and Endurance

  • Why Choose: Faster fatigue regen and tankiness—solid support birthsign.

Avoid

• The Mage / The Apprentice unless your build leans heavily into casting.

• The Thief is decent but more suited to stealth builds.

---

Why Magic Matters Even for Melee Builds

Many players ignore magic in melee builds, but it can be game-changing in Oblivion Remastered. You don’t need to be a mage to benefit.

Restoration

• Heal yourself during or after fights.

• Fortify Fatigue or Health: Helps with stamina drain from blocking.

Alteration

• Shield Spells: Boost armor rating even without good gear.

Conjuration

• Summon Creatures: They distract enemies while you tank and kill.

• Bound Armor/Weapons: Can replace poor-quality gear early game.

Alchemy

• Craft fatigue and health potions.

• Poison your blade for opening damage.

Adding just one or two spells to your build drastically improves survivability. Think of them as support tools, not your primary playstyle.

Character Development Strategy: How to Level Up Efficiently

Leveling in Oblivion Remastered isn't just about grinding. To max your potential, you need to level smart—especially with custom builds.

1. Level Endurance First

• Why: Health increases are retroactive—meaning the earlier you boost Endurance, the more total health you get.

• How: Focus on using skills tied to Endurance (like Heavy Armor and Armorer).

2. Balance Strength and Willpower

• Strength improves damage and inventory space, while Willpower increases fatigue recovery.

• Keep your fatigue high to avoid getting staggered and ensure stronger blocks and attacks.

3. Avoid Over-Leveling Useless Skills

• Don’t use Athletics or Acrobatics as major skills; they level fast from movement and can force early level-ups before you're combat-ready.

• Pick controlled skills like Block, Blade, Restoration, and Alchemy that let you manage when to gain XP.

4. Rotate Skill Use for Balanced Stat Gains

• Spread out your actions to level different attributes simultaneously.

  • Example: Use Blade (Strength), Heavy Armor (Endurance), and Restoration (Willpower) during one play session.

5. Consider Luck Later

• It’s expensive to level (you need to spend 4 out of 12 points each level to increase it by just 1).

• After capping Endurance and Strength, consider adding Luck in small doses.

---

Gameplay Tips for Expert and Master Difficulty

Higher difficulties change everything. Enemies hit harder, survive longer, and punish mistakes. Here’s how to make this build thrive:

1. Use Shield Bash to Control the Fight

• At Block 75, the shield bash staggers enemies, letting you interrupt spellcasting or fast attacks.

• Use bash strategically—don’t spam it if you're low on fatigue.

2. Always Carry Fatigue Potions

• Block, bash, and even melee attacks all cost fatigue.

• Running out means you’ll miss attacks, fail to block, and get staggered yourself.

3. Start Each Battle with a Summon or Shield Spell

• Even if you’re not a magic user, casting a bound creature or temporary shield can swing the early momentum your way.

4. Choose Your Fights and Terrain

• Narrow corridors and doorways work to your advantage.

  • Use them to block line of sight or funnel enemies so you fight one at a time.

5. Play Defensively, Then Counter

• Don’t rush enemies on higher difficulties.

• Let them hit your shield, lose balance or fatigue, then punish with a strong counterattack.

6. Upgrade Gear Strategically

• Don’t just go for raw defense.

  • Prioritize gear with Reflect Damage, Fortify Fatigue, or Magic Resistance.

• Spellbreaker remains your best option in most cases.

7. Take Advantage of Alchemy and Conjuration Scaling

• These two don’t suffer from the harsh difficulty scaling that nerfs melee damage.

  • Use them to compensate when fights drag on or become overwhelming.

Conclusion

If you're looking to dominate in Oblivion Remastered, this sword and shield build offers a solid, tested, and flexible approach to melee combat. With strong defense, excellent crowd control through bashing and blocking, and just enough magic to stay alive or summon support, this setup can thrive in even the toughest dungeons or against the hardest bosses.

Choosing the right race and birthsign will give you a powerful edge from the start, and building out your major skills with proper attribute planning ensures you're scaling well into late-game content. Whether you’re blocking with Spellbreaker or staggering foes into submission, the power of this build is in its simplicity and strength.

With smart potion use, efficient leveling, and a strategic combat mindset, you'll handle Master difficulty like a pro. Now, go bash some Daedra.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What’s the best race for a sword and shield build in Oblivion Remastered?
A: Breton is ideal for its 50% magic resistance and extra magicka, but Redguards and Orcs are also excellent for pure melee and stamina-heavy playstyles.

Q2: Is Spellbreaker really the best shield?
A: Yes. Its 30% Reflect Spell enchantment and high armor rating make it perfect for surviving magical attacks and difficult encounters.

Q3: Which birthsign should I choose for this build?
A: The Lord is best for new players due to its passive bonuses. Advanced players may prefer The Atronach for powerful spell absorption, though it requires more micromanagement.

Q4: Should I use magic even if I’m a melee fighter?
A: Absolutely. Restoration for healing, Conjuration for distractions, and Alteration for defense all enhance survivability and control in combat.

Q5: What difficulty is this build best for?
A: It performs well at all levels, but it shines especially in Expert and Master modes due to its high sustainability and crowd control.

Q6: What skills should I prioritize early on?
A: Focus on leveling Block, Blade, and Heavy Armor first. Add Restoration and Alchemy early to sustain yourself in longer fights.

Q7: What armor should I aim for?
A: Start with Steel or Dwarven, move into Ebony mid-game, and aim for full Daedric in late-game content.

Read More