Enter the Madness – How to Access the Shivering Isles DLC in The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered

The eerie realm of Shivering Isles in The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered is ruled by the Daedric Prince of Madness, Sheogorath, and players can now enter the land without needing a separate DLC.

You can access it shortly after completing the tutorial, so here’s how to get to the Shivering Isles DLC and dive into the madness.

1. How to start the Shivering Isles DLC in Oblivion Remastered?

The Shivering Isles is the second major story expansion from the original Oblivion release, now fully integrated into Oblivion Remastered. Widely praised as one of the greatest DLCs in gaming history, it is considered a late-game adventure best tackled after completing the main storyline.

However, since DLCs are entirely optional, you can jump in whenever you’re ready. Whether you’re a newcomer exploring the Isles for the first time or a returning fan looking to relive the madness, this guide will help you get started with the Shivering Isles in Oblivion Remastered.

i. How to access the Shivering Isles DLC?

The only requirement to access the Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Shivering Isles expansion is finishing the game’s opening tutorial. Still, try waiting until your character is stronger and more equipped to tackle Sheogorath’s madness.

After 24 in-game hours have passed, you’ll receive a message prompting you to investigate strange rumors about a mysterious island that has appeared in the bay. This kicks off the quest “A Door in Niben Bay,” the starting point of the Shivering Isles storyline.

• Follow the quest marker in the middle of Niben Bay, just off the eastern coast of the Heartlands. The closest fast-travel point is the city of Bravil. Exit through Bravil’s eastern gates and swim out to the island.
• You’ll reach a distinctive head-shaped rock marking the entrance: a massive stone doorway carved in the image of Sheogorath, the Daedric Prince of Madness. You can visit this location any time after exiting the sewers at the end of the tutorial.

If you’re looking for earlier content, consider completing the Knights of the Nine DLC first—it’s better suited for early to mid-game characters.

ii. How to start the Shivering Isles DLC?

At the enchanted door, you’ll encounter two NPCs—Gaius Prentus, an Imperial guard assigned to the door, and S’fara, a Khajiit scout who’s already begun to feel the madness of Sheogorath’s realm.

• Interacting with the Strange Door transports you to the Shivering Isles. On the other side, you’ll find the Door to Cyrodiil and meet Haskill, Sheogorath’s ever-patient, enigmatic chamberlain.
• Speak with him to officially begin your journey through the Shivering Isles, where he will serve as your guide throughout the questline.
• He’ll explain what lies ahead and offer you the chance to become Sheogorath’s mortal champion. You can either accept immediately or return later when you’re ready.

When you agree, a stunning transformation scene unfolds as the structures around you vanish, marking the end of the “A Door in Niben Bay” quest and the true beginning of the Shivering Isles adventure.

May strength find you to brave all fights and survive the madness of the Shivering Isles!

2. About Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion

The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion is an open-world action role-playing game developed by Bethesda Game Studios and released on March 20, 2006. Set in the richly detailed fantasy world of Tamriel, players explore the province of Cyrodiil as they unravel a plot involving demonic portals known as Oblivion Gates.

Known for its expansive world, immersive storytelling, and groundbreaking graphics at the time, Oblivion built on the success of its predecessor, Morrowind, while introducing features like Radiant AI and fast travel. The game received widespread critical acclaim and is considered a landmark title in the role-playing genre.