Bethesda's Howard: Oblivion "sacrificed some of what made Morrowind special"

Bethesda's Todd Howard has said Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion "sacrificed" what was so key to making Morrowind the legendary game it's become today.

"It should feel alien, kind of 'stranger in a strange' land, with familiar looking elements only rooting you early in the game. The whole tone ends up being one of 'I'm an outsider, I'm uncomfortable," Skyrim director Howard told OXM.

"With Oblivion, we're dealing with the capital province, and we wanted to get back to the more classic Arena and Daggerfall feel of a fantasy world that felt more refined and welcoming," he continued to add.

"But in that, we sacrificed some of what made Morrowind special; the wonder of discovery."

Howard admits now it's looking to find the middle ground between Morrowind and Oblivion with Skyrim.

Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim releases worldwide on November 11 for PS3, 360 and PC.