If you’re playing The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion and your inventory is getting too heavy, you’re probably wondering how to drop items. Whether you’re over-encumbered from loot or just want to make room for better gear, knowing how to drop items in Oblivion is essential to managing your inventory and avoiding unnecessary slowdowns. Here’s everything you need to know about how to drop items in Elder Scrolls 4 Oblivion on PC, Xbox, and PlayStation.
How to Drop Items in Oblivion (PC)
On PC, dropping items in Oblivion is simple once you know the right keys:
- Open your inventory by pressing the Tab key and navigating to the inventory menu.
- Use your mouse to left-click and hold the item you want to drop.
- Drag the item out of the inventory window and release it. This will drop the item onto the ground.
This method works for weapons, armor, potions, scrolls, and pretty much anything in your backpack. If you’re trying to drop multiple items at once, you’ll need to repeat the drag-and-drop action for each individual item.
How to Drop Items in Oblivion (Xbox)
If you’re playing Oblivion on an Xbox console:
- Open your inventory by pressing B (default).
- Highlight the item you want to drop using the directional pad or left thumbstick.
- Press X to drop the selected item.
Keep in mind that dropping quest items will not work—you’ll receive a notification telling you the item cannot be removed.
How to Drop Items in Oblivion (PlayStation)
For PlayStation 3 users:
- Open the inventory with the Circle button.
- Use the analog stick to select the item you want to get rid of.
- Press Square to drop the item on the ground.
This is especially helpful if you’re over-encumbered and can’t move until you reduce your carry weight.
Why Can’t I Drop Certain Items?
If you’re trying to drop an item in Oblivion and nothing happens, there’s a good chance it’s a quest item. Quest items are locked in your inventory and cannot be dropped, sold, or stored until the related quest is complete.
Also, be sure you’re not in a menu where dragging or dropping is disabled (such as during dialogue or when trading with a merchant).
Pro Tips for Inventory Management
- Keep an eye on your encumbrance limit in the bottom-right corner of your inventory screen.
- Drop or store unused heavy items like iron armor or low-value weapons.
- Use containers in safe locations, like your house or the Arch-Mage’s quarters, to store excess loot.
- Potions, scrolls, and soul gems weigh less, so prioritize keeping those over bulky weapons.
Final Thoughts
Dropping items in Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion is a simple mechanic once you know which buttons to press. Whether you’re trying to shed weight to fast travel or make space for better loot, mastering this basic inventory management trick will help you explore Cyrodiil more efficiently. Now that you know how to drop items, you’ll never be stuck slow-walking through a dungeon again.