The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion
The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion

Magic & Spellcraft

Master magic and spellcraft in The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. Learn about the seven schools of magic, creating custom spells, and powerful arcane feats.

Magic & Spellcraft

Magic is a cornerstone of the Elder Scrolls universe, and Oblivion offers a deep and versatile magic system that allows players to wield powerful spells for offense, defense, and utility. Mastering the arcane arts is essential for many character builds and can open up a world of possibilities.

There are seven schools of magic in Oblivion, each with its own set of spells and effects:

  • Destruction: Focuses on offensive spells that deal direct damage, such as fireballs, frost bolts, and shock spells.
  • Alteration: Deals with manipulating the physical world, offering spells like Shield, Water Breathing, and Feather.
  • Illusion: Affects the minds of others, with spells like Calm, Fear, and Invisibility.
  • Restoration: Primarily focused on healing and protection, including spells for restoring Health, Magicka, and Fatigue, as well as wards against magic.
  • Conjuration: Allows players to summon creatures, weapons, and armor, as well as banish Daedra.
  • Mysticism: Offers spells that manipulate magical energies, such as Spell Absorption, Dispel, and Telekinesis.
  • Alchemy: While not a spell school in the traditional sense, Alchemy allows players to craft potions with various effects by combining ingredients.
Acquiring Spells:

Spells can be acquired in several ways:

  • Mages Guild: Purchasing spells from Mages Guild members in various cities.
  • Arcane University: Buying advanced spells from the Arch-Mage and other scholars at the Arcane University.
  • Quest Rewards: Some unique spells are awarded upon completion of specific quests, particularly those related to Daedric Princes or the Mages Guild.
  • Spellcrafting: At the Arcane University, You can learn to craft their own custom spells by combining effects from different schools of magic. This requires a sificant amount of Magicka and gold.
Spell School Primary Attribute Example Spells
Destruction Intelligence, Willpower Fireball, Frostbite, Shock Rune
Alteration Intelligence, Willpower Shield, Water Walking, Detect Life
Illusion Willpower, Charisma Calm Humanoid, Fear, Invisibility
Restoration Willpower, Endurance Heal Minor Wounds, Ward Lesser Magicka, Fortify Health
Conjuration Intelligence, Willpower Summon Familiar, Bound Sword, Banish Daedra
Mysticism Intelligence, Willpower Detect Enchantment, Dispel, Telekinesis

Managing your Magicka is crucial when using spells. Potions and enchanted items can help restore Magicka or increase your Magicka pool. Experimenting with different spell combinations and schools of magic is key to discovering powerful synergies and developing a formidable magical character.