Oblivion Remastered: How To Rid Yourself Of Vampirism – A Complete Guide
Introduction
The sun beats down on Cyrodiil, casting long shadows across the rolling hills. In Oblivion Remastered, that same sun, rendered in glorious high definition, can be your greatest enemy if you’ve made the fateful mistake of becoming a vampire. The enhanced textures and lighting of this Remaster only serve to highlight the burning agony you’ll endure should you linger too long in its embrace. While the dark allure of vampirism – increased strength, speed, and arcane resistance – can be tempting, the drawbacks, including that crippling weakness to sunlight and the growing distrust of ordinary citizens, can quickly outweigh the benefits. Maybe you regret your hasty alliance with the denizens of the night, or perhaps you’re simply looking for a return to normalcy. Whatever your reasons, this guide will walk you through the often-perilous journey of curing vampirism in Oblivion Remastered, covering everything from recognizing the initial symptoms to navigating the quest that can save your soul (and your skin).
This comprehensive guide will detail every step of the process, highlighting any changes or improvements introduced in Oblivion Remastered, from updated visual cues to potential alterations in gameplay. Whether you’re a seasoned Oblivion veteran or a newcomer experiencing Cyrodiil for the first time, this guide will equip you with the knowledge needed to cast off the shackles of vampirism and once again walk freely beneath the sun.
Understanding Vampirism in Oblivion Remastered
First, let’s delve into the specifics of how you become afflicted with this dreaded condition. Vampirism, in the world of Oblivion, is contracted through a disease known as Sanguinare Vampiris. This malady isn’t simply caught from the air; it’s transmitted through the attacks of vampires. Every time you engage in combat with these creatures of the night, you run the risk of contracting this disease.
How You Contract Vampirism (Sanguinare Vampiris)
The initial stages of Sanguinare Vampiris are deceptively mild. For the first few days after infection, you may notice only minor symptoms, such as increased fatigue or a slight sensitivity to sunlight. You may even dismiss these symptoms as mere exhaustion from your adventures. However, don’t be fooled. This is merely the calm before the storm.
The Stages of Vampirism
The progression of vampirism unfolds over a period of seventy-two in-game hours. If left untreated, the disease will gradually transform you into a full-fledged vampire, with each stage bringing new powers and, more importantly, escalating weaknesses. The stages of vampirism determine the severity of your abilities and vulnerabilities. As you progress further into vampirism, your strength, speed, and magical resistance will increase dramatically. You’ll become a formidable opponent in the shadows, capable of feats of agility and power that would be impossible for ordinary mortals. However, this power comes at a steep price.
The most significant drawback of vampirism is the debilitating weakness to sunlight. As you progress through the stages, your vulnerability to the sun intensifies. During the day, your attributes will decrease, and you’ll find yourself taking continuous damage, making outdoor exploration and combat exceedingly difficult. This is especially noticeable in Oblivion Remastered, where the enhanced lighting and shadow effects vividly portray the agonizing burn you experience under the sun’s rays. In addition to sunlight sensitivity, vampires face increasing hostility from the general population. Many NPCs will react negatively to your presence, refusing to trade with you or even attacking you on sight. The higher your stage of vampirism, the more pronounced this negative reaction becomes, making it difficult to interact with civilized society.
Identifying Vampirism
Identifying vampirism early is crucial for swift treatment. Keep an eye out for the initial symptoms, such as fatigue, sunlight sensitivity, and subtle changes in your appearance. If you suspect you may be infected, seek out a shrine or utilize a “Detect Life” spell. These methods can help you confirm your suspicions and take prompt action before the disease progresses too far.
Preventing Vampirism
Prevention, as they say, is better than cure. The best way to avoid the hassles of curing vampirism is to avoid contracting it in the first place. Fortunately, several methods exist to prevent the disease from taking hold. Potions and spells are the answer.
Potions and Spells
The Potion of Cure Disease is a readily available remedy that can effectively combat Sanguinare Vampiris. You can purchase these potions from alchemists throughout Cyrodiil, or you can craft them yourself if you have the necessary alchemy skill and ingredients. Be sure to stock up on these potions before venturing into vampire-infested areas, as they can be a lifesaver in a pinch.
Another option is the Cure Disease spell. This spell, available to those with sufficient magical ability, can instantly eliminate Sanguinare Vampiris. You can purchase the spell from mages at the arcane university or find it as a reward for completing certain quests. If you prefer a more proactive approach, the Cure Disease spell is an excellent tool for preventing vampirism.
Regardless of your chosen method, the key to preventing vampirism is to act quickly. Sanguinare Vampiris must be cured within three in-game days of infection. After this time, the disease will progress too far, and you’ll be forced to undertake the much more arduous quest to cure full-blown vampirism. So, stay vigilant, stock up on remedies, and be prepared to act swiftly if you suspect you’ve been infected.
The Cure for Vampirism Quest: A Journey to Redemption
Now, let’s assume you’ve failed to prevent the disease, and you’re now a full-fledged vampire. Fear not, for all is not lost. A challenging but ultimately rewarding quest exists to cure vampirism and restore you to your former self. This quest, aptly named “Cure for Vampirism,” will take you on a perilous journey across Cyrodiil, testing your skills and your resolve.
Starting the Quest
Your first step is to find a knowledgeable quest giver who can set you on the path to redemption. Seek out a mystical individual, known as a Witch, residing in a remote hut nestled deep within the forests of Cyrodiil. Finding this individual is your initial step to the quest. This person has researched obscure lore and knows the rituals to deal with the undead. This witch is the only person who can guide you through the process of curing vampirism.
Gathering the Ingredients
The witch will task you with gathering a collection of rare and unusual ingredients. These ingredients are essential for performing the ritual that will cleanse you of the vampiric curse. The journey to find them will be one of patience and commitment.
Garlic
Firstly, you will need to collect garlic. Garlic is a common ingredient found in many homes and inns throughout Cyrodiil. It should be fairly easy to acquire.
Bloodgrass
Secondly, you will need to get bloodgrass. Bloodgrass is a rare type of plant found only in the Oblivion planes. It is difficult to get because you have to travel to another realm in order to get it.
Nightshade
Thirdly, you will need to collect nightshade. Nightshade is a poisonous plant that grows in dark and secluded areas. Be careful when handling this ingredient, as it can be harmful if ingested.
Argonian Blood
Fourthly, you will need Argonian Blood. This is one of the most difficult ingredients to acquire. The Witch will require you to go into a dungeon filled with traps and monsters to get.
Ashes of a Powerful Vampire
Finally, the ingredient that you have to gather to complete the quest to cure your vampirism is the ashes of a powerful vampire. This is by far the most difficult of the ingredients to acquire. To get the ashes, you will need to find and slay one of the most powerful vampires in the game. These vampires are often found in ancient ruins or secluded crypts, surrounded by hordes of lesser undead. Be prepared for a challenging battle, as these master vampires are formidable opponents. Oblivion Remastered has enhanced the visual fidelity of these creatures, making their terrifying appearance even more impressive. Defeating these vampires requires careful planning and a well-equipped character. Exploit their weaknesses to sunlight and fire, and be prepared to use all your skills and abilities to emerge victorious.
Completing the Ritual
Once you’ve gathered all the necessary ingredients, return to the witch with your collection. The witch will use these ingredients to perform a complex ritual that will cleanse you of the vampiric curse. Be patient during the ritual, as it may take some time to complete.
Receiving the Cure
After the ritual is complete, you will receive the cure for vampirism. Take the cure and consume it to rid yourself of the vampiric curse forever. Congratulations, you are now free from the shackles of vampirism.
Troubleshooting and Common Issues
The “Cure for Vampirism” quest is notoriously complex, and players may encounter various issues along the way. One common problem is encountering quest bugs that can prevent you from progressing. If you encounter a bug, try reloading an earlier save or consulting online forums for potential workarounds. Oblivion Remastered aims to address many of the bugs present in the original game, but new issues may arise. Staying informed about potential problems can help you avoid frustration.
Locating the necessary ingredients can also be challenging, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the world of Cyrodiil. If you’re having trouble finding a particular ingredient, consult online resources or ask other players for help. The Oblivion community is generally helpful and willing to share their knowledge.
Combat difficulties can also arise, particularly when facing the master vampire needed for the quest. If you’re struggling to defeat this powerful foe, consider leveling up your character, improving your equipment, or seeking assistance from a companion. Remember to exploit the vampire’s weaknesses to sunlight and fire to gain an advantage.
Vampirism After the Cure (Optional)
After completing the quest, you’ll likely want to avoid becoming a vampire again. The best way to do this is to continue practicing preventative measures. Keep a supply of Cure Disease potions on hand, and be cautious when exploring vampire-infested areas.
Oblivion Remastered Specifics
Oblivion Remastered offers a host of visual and gameplay enhancements that impact the experience of being a vampire. The updated graphics and visual changes bring the world of Cyrodiil to life in stunning detail, making the experience of playing as a vampire even more immersive. The enhanced lighting and shadow effects vividly portray the effects of sunlight on your character, while the improved character models showcase the subtle changes in your appearance as you progress through the stages of vampirism.
Gameplay adjustments in Oblivion Remastered may also affect the balance of vampire abilities and weaknesses. Be sure to familiarize yourself with these changes to adapt your gameplay accordingly. Some rumors have circulated about rebalancing the Vampire system to be less penalizing to players. We see a minor reduction in negative reactions from NPCs during the daytime, but the weakness to the sun is still potent.
Conclusion
Curing vampirism in Oblivion Remastered is a challenging but ultimately rewarding experience. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can rid yourself of the vampiric curse and return to the world of the living. Remember to be patient, persistent, and prepared for a long and arduous journey. The enhanced visuals and gameplay of Oblivion Remastered make the quest even more immersive and rewarding, offering a truly unforgettable experience. Share your own experiences with curing vampirism in the comments below, and let us know if you have any further questions. Good luck, adventurer, and may the sun shine brightly upon your face!