How to Kill Will-o-the-Wisps in Oblivion Remastered

If you’ve wandered through the misty forests of Cyrodiil in Oblivion Remastered, chances are you’ve already encountered the dreaded Will-o-the-Wisps. At first glance, these glowing apparitions might seem harmless—until your attacks pass right through them, and your health starts draining before you even realize what’s happening.

Let me be honest: the first time I faced these ethereal nightmares, I panicked. Why wasn’t my trusty sword doing anything? Why was I suddenly out of stamina and watching my health bar evaporate? If you’re here, you’ve probably asked yourself the same questions.

Luckily, once you know how to kill Will-o-the-Wisps in Oblivion Remastered, these spectral foes become far less intimidating. It’s all about using the right tools and tactics. So, let’s break down exactly how to send these ghosts back to whatever plane they came from.

Why Standard Weapons Don’t Work Against Will-o-the-Wisps

One of the biggest mistakes new players make is charging into battle with a basic steel sword or iron dagger, only to realize that standard weapons are completely useless against ghost-type enemies in Oblivion Remastered.

Will-o-the-Wisps, like all spectral foes, are immune to non-magical attacks. Swinging a regular blade at them is like trying to cut fog with a knife—it looks dramatic but achieves nothing. Understanding this immunity is the first step to survival.

The Best Weapons to Kill Will-o-the-Wisps

To effectively deal with these floating menaces, you’ll need to equip yourself properly. Here’s a list of weapons and methods that actually damage Will-o-the-Wisps and other ghost types in Oblivion Remastered:

Each of these options bypasses the spectral immunity, allowing you to actually harm Will-o-the-Wisps. If you don’t have access to enchanted or Daedric weapons yet, a Silver Sword is your best early-game solution.

Using Magic to Defeat Will-o-the-Wisps

For those who favor magic, you’re in luck. Destruction spells are highly effective against ghostly enemies. Fire, frost, shock—pick your element, as any direct damage spell will hit its mark.

My personal tip? Always keep a ranged spell equipped when exploring areas known for undead or spirits. This way, even if you’re primarily a warrior or rogue, you won’t be left defenseless.

Surviving Their Deadly Touch Attacks

Even with the right weapon, Will-o-the-Wisps are far from harmless. These enemies specialize in draining health, magicka, and stamina through their touch-based spells. If you’re not careful, they’ll whittle you down before you can land enough blows.

Here’s how to stay alive:

• Stock up on Healing Potions: Always carry a healthy supply. These enemies will sap your health quickly.

• Use Strong Power Attacks: The faster you bring them down, the less time they have to drain you.

• Buff Yourself: Use fortify health or resist magic potions before combat.

• Kite When Necessary: Don’t stand still—keep moving to avoid constant contact.

Why You Should Hunt Will-o-the-Wisps

You might be wondering, “Why not just avoid them altogether?” Well, aside from survival, there’s a solid reason to take these spirits down: Glow Dust.

Glow Dust is a valuable alchemical ingredient dropped exclusively by Will-o-the-Wisps. It’s used in crafting powerful potions, particularly those involving invisibility and light effects. Whether you’re an alchemy enthusiast or just looking to make some gold, farming Glow Dust is worth the effort—if you’re prepared.

Dealing with Groups of Will-o-the-Wisps

One Will-o-the-Wisp is manageable, but stumbling upon a cluster can spell disaster. These creatures often appear in numbers, and their combined draining abilities can overwhelm even seasoned adventurers.

Here’s my advice:

• Use Area-of-Effect (AoE) Spells: If you have access to AoE magic, this can thin their numbers fast.

• Lure Them One by One: Use terrain to your advantage and separate them if possible.

• Summon Allies: Conjuration spells can distract them while you focus on offense.

Prepare Before Entering Haunted Areas

Certain regions in Cyrodiil are notorious for ghost encounters. If you’re heading into ancient ruins, swamps, or known cursed sites, always check your inventory:

• Do you have a silver or enchanted weapon?

• Are your spells ready?

• Do you have enough potions?

• Is your armor enchanted with resist magic?

If not, turn back and gear up. Facing Will-o-the-Wisps unprepared is a rookie mistake—trust me, I’ve learned the hard way.

Final Thoughts on Killing Will-o-the-Wisps in Oblivion Remastered

Mastering how to kill Will-o-the-Wisps in Oblivion Remastered transforms them from terrifying foes into manageable targets. It all comes down to knowledge, preparation, and having the right gear. Once you adjust your strategy, these once-feared spirits become just another source of valuable loot.

I’ll admit, they gave me nightmares during my first few playthroughs. But now? I see that eerie glow in the distance, and I’m already reaching for my enchanted blade with a grin. With these tips, you’ll be doing the same.

FAQs

Why can’t I damage Will-o-the-Wisps in Oblivion Remastered?
Standard weapons don’t affect ghost-type enemies. You need enchanted, silver, or Daedric weapons, or use magic.

Where can I buy silver weapons in Oblivion Remastered?
Visit A Fighting Chance in the Imperial City Market District for silver weaponry.

Do Will-o-the-Wisps drop anything valuable?
Yes, they drop Glow Dust, a useful ingredient for alchemy.

Is magic effective against Will-o-the-Wisps?
Absolutely. Any direct damage spell will work against them.

Can I use hand-to-hand combat to kill Will-o-the-Wisps?
Yes, but only if you’ve reached Journeyman level in Hand-to-Hand.

How do I survive their draining attacks?
Keep moving, use healing potions, and try to end the fight quickly with powerful attacks.