A Revelation in Gaming
Elden Ring is a masterpiece that has completely redefined my perspective on gaming. Despite my initial hesitation and struggles, I’ve come to realize the immense depth and beauty of this game. This is not merely a game; it is an experience that resonates deeply with those who embrace its challenges and marvel at its world-building.
Rediscovering the Genre
Since the release of the first Dark Souls, I had little interest in the “Souls-like” genre. The complexity and brutal difficulty seemed more like a chore than entertainment. However, games like Hollow Knight and Dead Cells rekindled my appreciation for challenging gameplay. These titles showed me that complexity, when executed well, could be incredibly rewarding.
Completing Hollow Knight was a turning point. It instilled a sense of accomplishment and opened my eyes to the joy of mastering difficult mechanics. Yet, my previous attempts at games like Dark Souls 3 and Bloodborne were less successful. The steep learning curve, unclear mechanics, and perplexing interfaces often left me frustrated. I abandoned them after a few failed encounters with early bosses.
The Turning Point: The Monkey
Everything changed when I encountered the “monkey” in Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice. This was the first time I truly understood my primary mistake in boss fights: recklessly charging in without maintaining proper distance. By adopting a more calculated approach and referring to guides, I managed to progress halfway through the second chapter, defeating numerous bosses along the way. Although I set the game aside for a while, it laid the foundation for my eventual appreciation of Elden Ring.
Initial Struggles with Elden Ring
When I first tried Elden Ring on PlayStation, I found myself overwhelmed. The sheer variety of items, lack of clear direction, and the formidable enemies at every turn left me discouraged. Mini-bosses were difficult, and even regular mobs proved to be a challenge. The vast open world, teeming with dragons, trolls, and other intimidating creatures, felt more like an obstacle than an invitation to explore.
I set the game aside, thinking it might not be for me. However, during the holidays, I decided to give it another shot. I watched several episodes of Kuplinov’s let’s play, which reignited my interest and provided some much-needed insights into the game’s mechanics.
Falling in Love with the Game
With renewed determination, I returned to Elden Ring. This time, I managed to defeat Margit and Godrick, two bosses that had previously seemed insurmountable. Exploring the game’s massive world became a joy rather than a chore. The game isn’t just about defeating bosses; it’s about immersing yourself in a richly detailed universe.
The Joy of Exploration
Contrary to my initial impression, the open world is far from empty. Every corner is filled with meaningful content. The loot is often genuinely useful, and the catacombs are packed with surprises. For instance:
- The Chariot: In the first fog-covered location, the chariot is a unique challenge that stands out.
- Morne Castle: The initial demon crowd and the jumping puzzle to reach the beach with jellyfish were both unexpected and delightful.
- Mini-Bosses: Defeating the mini-boss in Morne Castle on my first try was an exhilarating moment.
Each area presents its own visual and mechanical surprises, such as the fire-sniping enemies in Stormveil Castle. The progression through these challenges feels organic and rewarding.
Visuals and Atmosphere
At first glance, the graphics on console seemed underwhelming, with occasional frame drops. However, as I ventured deeper into the world, I was captivated by the stunning artistry. The mix of desolation and grandeur evokes a unique atmosphere reminiscent of Game of Thrones. Each location tells its own story, drawing you further into the lore and the world’s intricate design.
Embracing the Learning Curve
One of the game’s most rewarding aspects is its accessibility to players willing to learn. Although I often referred to online guides for basic pointers, I avoided over-relying on them. Discovering strategies and solutions independently added to the satisfaction.
For newcomers, I recommend studying some fundamental mechanics to ease into the experience. While the purist approach of learning solely through trial and error is admirable, it can be intimidating for many players.
My Build and Playstyle
I’ve settled on a build focusing on dual two-handed swords and jump attacks. While this setup leaves me vulnerable at times, it has been effective against most enemies, except for the challenging spider fingers. The ability to customize and adapt your build adds another layer of depth and personalization to the gameplay.
Comparing Elden Ring to Other Favorites
In recent years, only a few games have impacted me as profoundly as Elden Ring. Titles like Zelda and Hades come close, but they lack the same combination of exploration, challenge, and sheer scale. Even the much-anticipated Hades II didn’t resonate with me as strongly as the first installment.
Conclusion: A True Masterpiece
Elden Ring is an extraordinary achievement in gaming. Its world, mechanics, and artistic vision make it a game that demands to be experienced. For those willing to embrace its challenges, it offers an unparalleled journey filled with discovery, triumph, and awe.
I look forward to uncovering more of its content, exploring its replayability, and even dabbling in multiplayer. This game is a testament to what gaming can achieve and has set a new benchmark for the industry.