Each weapon, armor, etc all have their own distinct noise. A large heavy battle axe makes a very satisfying noise when it knocks back an enemy. If you pull up your heavy metal shield to block an enemy strike then makes an appropriate sound. A Troll has the ground shaking when it runs straight for you, and those ghostly lichs always sound scary.

When you enter some of the larger scale battles you’ll really begin to appreciate the effect that went into the sound. Sometimes though it does go wonky, there is a particular beggar walking around in the imperial city whom when you walk past sounds like a young woman but when you speak to her in person she sounds like an old lady.

This game makes fantastic use of surround sound setups. In particular in battles where it can be easy to lose an enemy in tight spaces listening to where his attack is coming from will really help you out. The music is very soothing, the ambient music playing while you’re exploring the province will be in your head for awhile. The music does change pace when you enter battle mode but it does get repetitive. My favorite would have to be the introduction music just as you start playing suits the theme of the game very well again, top notch stuff.

Conclusion

To sum it up, if you like RPGS buy this game. If you already have Oblivion then buy the Shivering Isles Expansion pack. If you are looking for a very meaty, very fulfilling game play experience loaded with tons of options, storylines and just freedom to do whatever you want. Then look no further The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion is for you, it’s not called game of year edition for no reason.