Jenny FordFrom the minds at FromSoftware, the developers who brought us critically acclaimed titles like Dark Souls and Bloodborne, comes Elden Ring, a game that has not only redefined the action RPG genre but has also set new standards for open-world gaming. It is a title that blends the intricate design and deep lore of traditional FromSoftware games with the vast exploration and freedom of an open-world experience. This review dives into what makes Elden Ring a masterpiece, exploring its gameplay, world design, story, and what makes it essential for any RPG fan.
The World of The Lands Between: An Epic Open-World Experience
Elden Ring takes place in a sprawling land called the Lands Between, a realm brimming with danger, mystery, and beauty. The game world is vast and diverse, consisting of rolling fields, dense forests, towering mountains, ancient ruins, and treacherous dungeons. What sets Elden Ring apart from previous FromSoftware games is the sense of scale and freedom offered to the player. Unlike the more linear paths of Dark Souls or Bloodborne, this game allows players to explore at their own pace, choosing their path, and engaging with the world on their terms.
The map of the Lands Between is dotted with castles, underground catacombs, and hidden paths that encourage players to roam and discover. One of the most impressive aspects of Elden Ring is its dynamic world-building. Every area is packed with lore, from environmental storytelling in the form of old ruins to cryptic NPC interactions that hint at deep, interconnected narratives. This attention to detail invites players to immerse themselves in the world and become part of its haunting story.
Gameplay: A Refined Combat System with Unmatched Depth
Combat in Elden Ring is where the game truly shines, combining the challenging mechanics of Dark Souls with the fluidity and freedom of a more open-world experience. The game offers an array of weapons, spells, and combat styles that cater to different playstyles, whether you prefer a tanky melee approach, a nimble dual-wielding strategy, or a magic-focused build.
The inclusion of horseback combat adds a new layer of depth to fights, allowing players to engage in fast-paced battles against large enemies or even other players in PvP (player versus player) modes. The mounted combat feels seamless and natural, a testament to the development team’s dedication to integrating this feature without compromising the game’s core mechanics.
One of the most notable aspects of Elden Ring is the ability to customize your character through the Ashes of War system. This feature enables players to modify their weapons and add unique skills that cater to different combat preferences. Whether you want to wield a flaming sword, launch shockwaves with your greatsword, or infuse your bow with magic, Ashes of War provide an impressive degree of flexibility.
The combat in Elden Ring is punishing but fair, with each encounter demanding precise timing and strategic thinking. Unlike more forgiving RPGs, Elden Ring rewards patience and observation, encouraging players to learn enemy attack patterns and adapt their tactics accordingly. The difficulty of the game makes each victory feel earned, creating a sense of accomplishment that is hard to replicate in other RPGs.
Exploration and Freedom: Discovering the Secrets of the Lands Between
One of the most significant achievements of Elden Ring is its emphasis on exploration. FromSoftware has taken the best elements of their previous games and expanded upon them, giving players a world that feels alive and waiting to be discovered. Whether it’s finding a hidden cave, stumbling upon a secret boss, or navigating through the dense woods only to be ambushed by a horde of creatures, Elden Ring constantly encourages you to step off the beaten path and explore.
Unlike more traditional RPGs, Elden Ring doesn’t hold your hand. There’s no quest marker telling you where to go; instead, it relies on subtle cues, environmental hints, and your own intuition to guide you. This can be daunting for new players but also incredibly rewarding. It’s in these moments of pure exploration that the game reveals its brilliance. The feeling of discovering a hidden area, defeating a tough boss, or finding a rare piece of loot makes every journey feel significant.
To aid in exploration, players can use the Site of Grace system, which functions as checkpoints and allows fast travel between different locations. While resting at a Site of Grace, players can level up, allocate skill points, and heal, making strategic planning essential for longer expeditions. These Sites of Grace also provide hints and lore that deepen your understanding of the story and the world.
The Story: An Intricate Tapestry of Lore
At first glance, Elden Ring might seem like an enigmatic and esoteric game, with its cryptic dialogue and subtle storytelling. However, those who delve into the narrative will find a rich and complex tale woven into the fabric of its world. The story centers around the Elden Ring, a powerful artifact that has shattered, resulting in a world filled with chaos and corruption. As the Tarnished, a group of exiles seeking to become the Elden Lord, you journey across the Lands Between to restore the Elden Ring and claim your destiny.
The lore of Elden Ring is masterfully crafted by Hidetaka Miyazaki, the visionary behind the Dark Souls series, and George R. R. Martin, who contributed to the world-building and backstory. This collaboration brings a unique depth to the game’s narrative, blending Miyazaki’s dark, existential themes with Martin’s intricate and epic storytelling. The game’s lore is not handed to the player on a silver platter; instead, it’s discovered through cryptic dialogue, item descriptions, and environmental clues.
The cast of characters in Elden Ring is as diverse and intriguing as the world itself. NPCs have their own motivations, quests, and stories, and interacting with them can lead to various outcomes, including unique endings. From the enigmatic merchants and the wise sorcerers to the tragic knights and fallen demigods, every character adds depth to the lore and gives you a reason to seek them out.
Graphics and Sound Design: Bringing the World to Life
Visually, Elden Ring is breathtaking. The game strikes a perfect balance between realism and dark fantasy, creating an atmospheric experience that pulls you into its world. The lighting effects, especially during the golden hour or in dungeons with flickering torches, are particularly striking. The dynamic weather system adds another layer of realism, with rainstorms, fog, and thunderstorms that impact gameplay and enhance the immersion.
The soundtrack, composed by Tsukasa Saitoh and others, is another standout feature. The music shifts seamlessly between subtle ambient tracks that accompany your exploration and intense, dramatic compositions that play during boss fights. This blend of music enhances the tension and emotional weight of the game, making victories feel triumphant and defeats sting all the more.
Advanced Strategies and Tips for Success
For those looking to master Elden Ring and truly thrive in the Lands Between, employing advanced strategies can make a significant difference. Understanding the importance of stamina management, using the environment to your advantage, and perfecting your timing in combat are essential to overcoming the game’s toughest challenges.
One of the most critical tips is to learn to parry and block effectively. The timing and placement of your attacks and defenses can determine the outcome of a battle. Additionally, exploring how different weapons interact with different enemy types can give you an edge. Don’t be afraid to experiment with various builds, as Elden Ring’s flexible skill system allows you to adjust your playstyle as you go.
The game reviews of Elden Ring often praise its depth and the level of detail that FromSoftware has incorporated into the gameplay. Reading these reviews can provide you with insights and strategies that can aid you in your quest to become the Elden Lord.
Conclusion
Elden Ring is more than just a game; it’s an experience that transcends the typical boundaries of the action RPG genre. With its challenging gameplay, deep lore, and boundless freedom, it has captured the attention of both veterans of FromSoftware’s previous titles and newcomers to the genre. It’s a game that will test your patience, skill, and curiosity, rewarding you with moments of unparalleled satisfaction. Whether you’re exploring hidden corners of the Lands Between, battling ferocious enemies, or piecing together the fragmented story, Elden Ring is a testament to the art of game design. If you’re a fan of action RPGs, Elden Ring is not just a must-play—it’s a must-experience.