To pick locks in The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion , follow these key steps and tips:
Basic Lockpicking Mechanics
- When you attempt to pick a lock, you enter a mini-game where you control a lockpick and tumblers inside the lock.
- Move the lockpick horizontally to select a tumbler and vertically to push the tumbler up.
- The goal is to push each tumbler to the top and lock it in place without breaking your lockpick
Timing and Speed
- The critical part is timing your button press to lock the tumbler at its uppermost position.
- If you press too early or too late, the lockpick breaks and tumblers reset.
- Tumblers move at different speeds; you want to wait for the tumbler to rise slowly before locking it in place.
- If the tumbler moves up fast, do not try to lock it; let it fall and try again until it moves slowly
Sound Cues
- Listen for a distinct "click-cleek" sound when the tumbler is at the right spot.
- The "cleek" is a higher-pitched sound indicating the tumbler is ready to be set.
- Using sound can help especially if you have difficulty watching the tumblers closely
Additional Tips
- Equip a torch near the lock; heating the lock is said to make pins fall uniformly, making it easier
- Increasing your Security skill makes lockpicking easier by allowing more tumblers to stay set even if you make mistakes
- The Skeleton Key is an unbreakable lockpick that also boosts your Security skill, making lockpicking much easier once obtained (available after reaching level 10 and completing a quest)
- If you struggle, you can use spells or console commands to temporarily boost Security or unlock doors for roleplay or convenience
Summary
- Select a tumbler.
- Push it up and wait for it to rise slowly.
- When it moves slowly, press the button to lock it in place.
- Repeat for all tumblers.
- Use sound cues and patience to avoid breaking lockpicks.
- Level up Security skill and aim to get the Skeleton Key for easier lockpicking
This approach will help you pick locks efficiently and avoid wasting lockpicks in Oblivion.
