For many long-time fans of The Elder Scrolls, the original prison-start sequence in Oblivion has become more of a chore than an introduction — especially after nearly two decades since its 2006 debut. Recognizing this, modders have stepped in to revive one of the most popular customization traditions in Bethesda games: the Alternative Start mod.

Now available for Oblivion Remastered, this updated version of the mod was created by Nexus user cookiedoughnexus , who released it just days after the official remaster dropped. The mod offers a refreshing change by relocating the game’s beginning from the overfamiliar catacombs to the deck of a ship headed toward the province of Cyrodiil .

Players can still customize their character’s appearance, choose their class and birthsign, but now without battling rats, dodging traps, or navigating endless stone corridors. Instead, they arrive in the world through a reimagined narrative moment — the Emperor appears in a dream and hands them the Amulet of Kings, preserving key lore while modernizing the experience.

Fans on Nexus Mods have praised the mod for its quick release and respectful adaptation of the original concept. The creator continues to refine the project, enhancing immersion and adding small but meaningful details that bring the new start location to life.

With this mod now available, Oblivion Remastered feels not only visually refreshed but also newly accessible to veterans and newcomers alike.

Main image: reddit.com

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