so ive gone almost halfway thru the game without problems...except for some sound issues. But logged on today and started getting crashes. cant open up inventory or change areas. i dont have a single mod, update or download so i dont understand where this problem could have started. I just downloaded oblivion straight from steam.

please help, thanks

That is strange, and I'm pretty sure the Steam version comes fully patched. Try this; backup your saves, then use the Steam menu to 'refresh cache/game files' and 'check for updates'. I've never heard of a faulty installation using Steam, but I guess it's possible. Since you've made zero changes to the game, this is likely something you'll have to contact Steam support about. Just make sure you keep a separate copy of your save folder.