After rave reviews and impressive videos, screenshots, and Game of the Year hype I decided to try this game out especially seeing it was on sale. Having beaten Dark Souls II about 6 years previously I felt right at home with the combat but the world around was a whole new experience. Massive world and incredible visuals. The most gigantic and terrifying bosses you have ever seen. It's all a dream come true for serious gamers. As soon as I started with the character creation all I could think of was how I was going to regret it later. Afterall you know that in a souls game you want to explore and experiment before taking a character too seriously. You want to create the ultimate build or end up in the dog house. This is all part of the fun. No longer are we playing ... MoreAfter rave reviews and impressive videos, screenshots, and Game of the Year hype I decided to try this game out especially seeing it was on sale. Having beaten Dark Souls II about 6 years previously I felt right at home with the combat but the world around was a whole new experience. Massive world and incredible visuals. The most gigantic and terrifying bosses you have ever seen. It's all a dream come true for serious gamers. As soon as I started with the character creation all I could think of was how I was going to regret it later. Afterall you know that in a souls game you want to explore and experiment before taking a character too seriously. You want to create the ultimate build or end up in the dog house. This is all part of the fun. No longer are we playing Adventure on the Atari 2600 where your character is a block. Did not take long to see my face kicked in and my ego bruised just in the first few minutes. I'm having a blast. The open world, gameplay, and everything you wanted in a souls game that could make it perfect.Being a gamer for over 40 decades this is an exciting time to be alive. I was expecting a good souls game and instead I am witnessing the ultimate gaming experience. From Ultima to Baldurs Gate to Final Fantasy VII to Morrowind to every RPG I have ever played I think this is the most mind blowing experience yet!

For people new to the genre of Soulsbornering, I would say this is the best place to start; never has a FromSoft game been so friendly to the user experience, WITHOUT compromising on the core appeals of the game in challenge and variety.For people who are already familiar with the series, Elden Ring has a lot of the DNA from Dark Souls 3 in how it's constructed, except this game does what is present in DS3 in a much better manner.Spells actually hit hard, all of the different diciplines feel usable, and all of them are given a greater amount of mechanically interesting spells, even if some are a bit fiddly.The open world design of 1 and 2 has returned like a rubberbanding kart-racer, and the world of Elden Ring has the freeform spark of 1 and 2 again, but with ... MoreFor people new to the genre of Soulsbornering, I would say this is the best place to start; never has a FromSoft game been so friendly to the user experience, WITHOUT compromising on the core appeals of the game in challenge and variety.For people who are already familiar with the series, Elden Ring has a lot of the DNA from Dark Souls 3 in how it's constructed, except this game does what is present in DS3 in a much better manner.Spells actually hit hard, all of the different diciplines feel usable, and all of them are given a greater amount of mechanically interesting spells, even if some are a bit fiddly.The open world design of 1 and 2 has returned like a rubberbanding kart-racer, and the world of Elden Ring has the freeform spark of 1 and 2 again, but with the emphasis on visual fidelity that 3, BB and Sekiro brought to the table. I would say this has both the sharpest visuals of the series, and some of the most striking aesthetics as well.Jumping and crouching has made the level designers at FromSoft froth at the mouth with Artistic Rage and the exploration has improved significantly as a result. Whilst not every corner and divot in the map has something to behold as a reward, they do their darnedest to seem like it. Ways to get around the map feel much more freeform in both the macro of field traversal and the micro of dungeon-crawling.These abilities enhance combat as well by allowing for extra moves that you can perform with every weapon, which is always a good thing. Another combat enhancement comes in the form of Posture, courtesy of Sekiro development experience; hit someone in general enough, or hard enough, and they'll be posture-broken, allowing for riposte and counter damage opportunities. Damn near everyone is vulnerable to a bad back.Ashes of War, formerly Weapon Arts, add special abilities to your weapon, and can be applied freely, at any time or place, to the majority of weapons. Most importantly, you actually might want to use them this time! They don't suck! In fact, they've been treated as nicely as the magic options, allowing for tons of mechanical variance, AND simultaneously serve to infuse your weapons with elements and scaling. Tasty.Horse. Goat-horse, rather. For a first shot at horseback combat, I feel like FromSoft just got it nearly completely right in one. Nimble, manoeuvrable, speedy, has a double jump, has a separate health pool that is healed both by his horse-berries AND your flask, and most importantly he believes in your merits. Completely serious, he would probably actively cheer you on in combat if not for being a goat-horse.There are so many good qualities about ER that make it something I'll always come back to, like 1 and 2 (I don't hate 3, but I replay it the same way I replay Mass Effect 1: mainly out of respect for the series rather than it being uniquely good at something). Even the character creation feels like it's been improved, making good looking characters of any sort is really easy, if a little unintuitive by FromSoft tradition.I will say that the one gripe that I will not let slide is the armour. FromSoft games are well-known to some degree as having armour that operates somewhat equally as fashion as well as protection. Looking good above all else is the name of the game, and Elden Eing is no slouch in this legacy. However, like DS3, Elden Ring has also forgotten that armour is meant to provide protection. Sure, it technically does provide damage reduction, but if you go back to DS1, heavy armours in that game make you genuinely feel like you're hewn from stone and as resilient as the earth itself. Here, and in DS3, you get roughly the same experience with heavy and light armours: Flinch City, wtch your footing.This wouldn't be so bad if the damage reduction was substantial, or proportional to the damage dealt across the game. It is not. If you aren't using heavy armour by the endgame areas, you're going to feel severely disadvantaged. Even then, enemies do so much damage at that point that heavy armours don't feel as tanky as they should be. If you roll like a champion, this doesn't really affect you, but then why have heavy armour if you're only meant to roll, right?DS1 and 2 had some dresses and robes as an option for armour, yet I don't have complaints with how the armor holds up in those games. You know the biggest reason? Upgrades. You could upgrade your armour. That meant light armours could have comparable defence to heavier armours, at least their less upgraded forms. That's good! It's part of the fun that you can invest into your dumb loincloth so that it deflects hits like it was a steel plate. It also meant heavy armour would become super powerful in the same vein.Despite my gripes with FromSoft and their decision to remove positive complexity from armour, that is a minor gripe about an otherwise gorgeous and delicious cake. One of the strawberries atop tastes funky, but it won't give you food poisoning. Please dig in.

Starting with what I did NOT like. I cleared most of the bosses in the game and they ended up getting repetitive, some bosses feel like they were used at least 5 if not more times. Open world in general isn't something I really care about so I didn't like that very much either. I found myself wandering around finding nothing and having no idea where to go. At least previous games you only had so many paths so this wasn't an issue. Horse was meh. It was neat to be able to climb up things, but a ladder would have been just fine. Also to me it controlled horribly and even in situations where I was probably supposed to use the horse in a fight I found myself avoiding it.What I did like. The main bosses and the first time you encountered bosses was usually a great ... MoreStarting with what I did NOT like. I cleared most of the bosses in the game and they ended up getting repetitive, some bosses feel like they were used at least 5 if not more times. Open world in general isn't something I really care about so I didn't like that very much either. I found myself wandering around finding nothing and having no idea where to go. At least previous games you only had so many paths so this wasn't an issue. Horse was meh. It was neat to be able to climb up things, but a ladder would have been just fine. Also to me it controlled horribly and even in situations where I was probably supposed to use the horse in a fight I found myself avoiding it.What I did like. The main bosses and the first time you encountered bosses was usually a great experience. Having played DS1 and DS3 it was expected that I would get destroyed on my first attempts at a boss, but steadily saw myself improve. Toward the end of the game I was really in the swing of things and most bosses only took about 5 tries, but they were always fun to see. This actually does bring up a negative, I one shot multiple bosses so the whole experience of improving was gone, not to mention missing some of the crazy fights I saw other people do. I understand not being able to repeat bosses, but for me one shotting a boss is actually pretty disappointing knowing you won't be able to see the whole fight unless you play ng+ or start a new character.

A Masterpiece Unleashed: Elden Ring Shines Bright is the highly anticipated collaboration between FromSoftware and George R.R. Martin, has triumphantly arrived, delivering an awe-inspiring and unforgettable experience that redefines the boundaries of the action role-playing genre. From its intricate world-building to its exhilarating gameplay, Elden Ring radiates brilliance at every turn. Visually, the game is a feast for the eyes. Its sprawling landscapes are meticulously crafted, showcasing a harmonious blend of hauntingly beautiful environments and a haunting atmosphere that engulfs players in its embrace. The attention to detail is remarkable, as every nook and cranny is infused with a sense of purpose and mystery. The combat mechanics in Elden Ring are nothing ... MoreA Masterpiece Unleashed: Elden Ring Shines Bright is the highly anticipated collaboration between FromSoftware and George R.R. Martin, has triumphantly arrived, delivering an awe-inspiring and unforgettable experience that redefines the boundaries of the action role-playing genre. From its intricate world-building to its exhilarating gameplay, Elden Ring radiates brilliance at every turn. Visually, the game is a feast for the eyes. Its sprawling landscapes are meticulously crafted, showcasing a harmonious blend of hauntingly beautiful environments and a haunting atmosphere that engulfs players in its embrace. The attention to detail is remarkable, as every nook and cranny is infused with a sense of purpose and mystery. The combat mechanics in Elden Ring are nothing short of sublime. Each battle is a ballet of swordplay, magic, and skill, demanding precise timing and strategic thinking. The variety of weapons and abilities provide an array of play styles, ensuring that no two encounters feel the same. And the challenging difficulty curve constantly pushes players to their limits, rewarding perseverance with a triumphant sense of accomplishment. But it's the captivating narrative that truly sets Elden Ring apart. George R.R. Martin's contribution shines through, weaving a rich tapestry of lore and characters that captivate the imagination. The intricate plot unravels with every step, urging players to explore deeper and uncover the mysteries hidden within this enthralling universe. In conclusion, Elden Ring is a magnum opus that surpasses expectations, standing as a testament to the mastery of its creators. With its breathtaking visuals, exhilarating combat, and engrossing storytelling, it shines as one of the most remarkable and unforgettable gaming experiences of our time. Prepare to embark on a journey like no other and be forever enthralled by the brilliance of Elden Ring.

10/10 GOTY Does Not Dissapont

Although Elden Ring appears challenging and is in fact that it overall reward and satisfaction in completion mixed with wonderful gameplay graphics and a spectacular story all point to why it was awarded Game of the year. Souls games always pose a challenge and this one is no different whether it be the range of difficult bosses like Malenia or Maliketh, or it's lack of guidance as quest and overall exploration is left up to the player, Elden Ring is certainly a difficult game. However resources are available to make this game easier and more manageable. The ability to summon and level up your character to become over powered opens up a easier path to this difficult game. As well as game features, many walkthroughs are present to help guide new souls players. My ... MoreAlthough Elden Ring appears challenging and is in fact that it overall reward and satisfaction in completion mixed with wonderful gameplay graphics and a spectacular story all point to why it was awarded Game of the year. Souls games always pose a challenge and this one is no different whether it be the range of difficult bosses like Malenia or Maliketh, or it's lack of guidance as quest and overall exploration is left up to the player, Elden Ring is certainly a difficult game. However resources are available to make this game easier and more manageable. The ability to summon and level up your character to become over powered opens up a easier path to this difficult game. As well as game features, many walkthroughs are present to help guide new souls players. My personal favorite is the Walkthrough by FightingCowboy that helped lead me to platinum the game. Elden Ring offers a healthy challenge while also maintaining a wonderful story of the path to become Elden Lord over the lands between.

Didn't think this was my cup of tea, I was wrong

I avoided playing Souls-like games for a very long time after a brief, confusing and frustrating foray into the original Dark Souls. But with a new PS5 for Father's Day and Starfield not coming out until September, I decided I needed a new, challenging game that would keep me occupied over the summer, even if the game killed me again and again and again. Which it does, repeatedly, but not in the way I expected. It's a challenging game to be sure and doesn't hold your hand in the slightest, but the massive open world doesn't force you into impossible boss fights if you aren't ready. The opening areas are large enough to be a game in their own right and there's plenty to explore as you carefully develop your character and learn the game's mechanics. So 20 hours in, ... MoreI avoided playing Souls-like games for a very long time after a brief, confusing and frustrating foray into the original Dark Souls. But with a new PS5 for Father's Day and Starfield not coming out until September, I decided I needed a new, challenging game that would keep me occupied over the summer, even if the game killed me again and again and again. Which it does, repeatedly, but not in the way I expected. It's a challenging game to be sure and doesn't hold your hand in the slightest, but the massive open world doesn't force you into impossible boss fights if you aren't ready. The opening areas are large enough to be a game in their own right and there's plenty to explore as you carefully develop your character and learn the game's mechanics. So 20 hours in, the game has me hooked and I'm plotting how to get ready to take on the boss who so effortlessly crushed me ten levels ago. Don't be too proud to consult online guides, there are hidden wonders in every nook and cranny. Aside from that, the graphics and visual design are fantastic, there are a ton of RPG elements and although I'm starting with standard hack and slash, there are lots of magic user options as well. TLDR: Great game, broad and deep, it will make you a smarter player.

Elden Ring - A Masterpiece

Elden ring is a top tier game. Very deserving of its game of the year award. I spent hundreds of hours on this game and none of it felt wasted. Every minute was spent absorbing the world and honing my ability to find success against some of the most challenging encounters of any video game.With such a large world my only criticisms involve the reuse of boss assets. Occasional bosses would just be the same as a previous boss, and sometimes early bosses would show up later as regular enemies. With the amount of enemy diversity you can’t blame them, but just something that stood out in an otherwise flawless gaming experience.My only other criticism is that the game almost felt TOO long. At about 100 hours I thought I was close to the end and found out that I ... MoreElden ring is a top tier game. Very deserving of its game of the year award. I spent hundreds of hours on this game and none of it felt wasted. Every minute was spent absorbing the world and honing my ability to find success against some of the most challenging encounters of any video game.With such a large world my only criticisms involve the reuse of boss assets. Occasional bosses would just be the same as a previous boss, and sometimes early bosses would show up later as regular enemies. With the amount of enemy diversity you can’t blame them, but just something that stood out in an otherwise flawless gaming experience.My only other criticism is that the game almost felt TOO long. At about 100 hours I thought I was close to the end and found out that I instead was only about 2/3 of the way through. It took me over a month of playing every night to get through it, which is a task in itself to just find the time.Anyways, play this game. It has a high skill curve, which starts early, but if you stick it out you will be rewarded with a gaming experience that will be talked about for the next decade, easy.

Elden Ring is bad, actually

I don't understand the hype. This is a bad game—and that's not something I'd say lightly. I don't just mean it's not perfect for me, personally, although I realize the gritty aesthetic is part of what some people like; it straight-up comes across unfinished! In the few hours I played, these qualities stood out:1. This game HATES the player. It doesn't even try to hide its antagonism—and, no, I don't mean difficulty. Every bit of text serves to do anything BUT help, from the startup message harassing you for not quitting the game properly to the grumpy tone of the admonishment you have to read through every time you start the game without an active PlayStation Plus subscription.2. Utter lack of narrative. There is no clear purpose to undertake, nor any reason to ... MoreI don't understand the hype. This is a bad game—and that's not something I'd say lightly. I don't just mean it's not perfect for me, personally, although I realize the gritty aesthetic is part of what some people like; it straight-up comes across unfinished! In the few hours I played, these qualities stood out:1. This game HATES the player. It doesn't even try to hide its antagonism—and, no, I don't mean difficulty. Every bit of text serves to do anything BUT help, from the startup message harassing you for not quitting the game properly to the grumpy tone of the admonishment you have to read through every time you start the game without an active PlayStation Plus subscription.2. Utter lack of narrative. There is no clear purpose to undertake, nor any reason to relate to the protagonist. You get an ancient-history cut scene to start, and are told to "seek the ring." That's it. I'm fine with having no map markers or other basic QOL features that have become ubiquitous to make games feel less like work, but NOTHING here compels the player to play, other than that they can push buttons and watch corresponding effects on screen, as if that should be entirely enough.3. Every facet is noticeably sloppy. For example, the background music loop of the first area audibly ends and restarts abrasively. They could've smoothed that out, but NAH. That type of blatant disregard for quality everywhere: graphics, audio, "narrative," mechanics, etc.. This is what I mean about the game seeming unfinished. For $70, all these elements together seem to laugh in the player's face. Gotcha!I probably would've ignored it entirely if a friend didn't talk me into getting a copy. But now I'm out that money, salty, unfulfilled, and THAT, to me, is the only compelling aspect of Elden Ring. What a letdown!

Game of The Year for sure

What can I say about Elden Ri g that people haven't already said. It's epic, mysterious, challenging and absolutely engrossing. There's always a way to overcome the challenges and enemies in this masterpiece of a game. There are so many weapon types, builds options and statehies you can find that there really isn't a wrong way to play or a set playstyle you have need to stick to. Out of the Fromsoft games I've played, this is the most versatile and gives players the most freedom to find their way through The Lands Between. If you're put off by the reputation for Soulsborne games being really hsrd, try this anyway. I'd also suggest if you enjoy it, pick up the other From games because they're amazing and the challenges are hard, but not unfair, there's always a way ... MoreWhat can I say about Elden Ri g that people haven't already said. It's epic, mysterious, challenging and absolutely engrossing. There's always a way to overcome the challenges and enemies in this masterpiece of a game. There are so many weapon types, builds options and statehies you can find that there really isn't a wrong way to play or a set playstyle you have need to stick to. Out of the Fromsoft games I've played, this is the most versatile and gives players the most freedom to find their way through The Lands Between. If you're put off by the reputation for Soulsborne games being really hsrd, try this anyway. I'd also suggest if you enjoy it, pick up the other From games because they're amazing and the challenges are hard, but not unfair, there's always a way to overcome and people are actually really helpful in the community, so don't get put off by the 'git gud' stuff. Anyway, the characters in Elden Ring are so well done and the lore is so deep. Miyazaki and co do environmental storytelling like nobodies business.

One of the best games of all time

FROM Software has shown how open world games should be done in creating yet another masterpiece. Not since the legend of Zelda breath of the wild has an open world video game inspired curiosity and wonderment like this. You never know what you will see next and the map keeps going and going. Entire massive areas could be skipped if you aren’t careful. Scouring the map is rewarded as there is an abundance of content unlike any other game. Everything is immaculate: the level design, the enemy design, the art, the music, the feel of combat. There are a million ways to play with different weapons, armor sets, magical abilities. You really make this game your own, and everybody’s experience will be a little different. George RR Martin’s world building creates an engaging ... MoreFROM Software has shown how open world games should be done in creating yet another masterpiece. Not since the legend of Zelda breath of the wild has an open world video game inspired curiosity and wonderment like this. You never know what you will see next and the map keeps going and going. Entire massive areas could be skipped if you aren’t careful. Scouring the map is rewarded as there is an abundance of content unlike any other game. Everything is immaculate: the level design, the enemy design, the art, the music, the feel of combat. There are a million ways to play with different weapons, armor sets, magical abilities. You really make this game your own, and everybody’s experience will be a little different. George RR Martin’s world building creates an engaging story with history that can be felt. When you play this game, you are transported into his and Miyazaki’s imagination, and can easily be lost for hours. Elden ring is loaded to the brim with secrets and discovery that will make you feel more rewarded than any other video game. The learning curve is steep but breaking through that difficulty or frustration is oh so satisfying. While still very challenging, this game is more accessible than other Souls like games in that you don’t have to face every enemy at a given time. You can simply explore elsewhere and come back even stronger and easily whup the foul beast that was giving you trouble earlier. The plenitude of magic in this game also provides an easier route to tackling some of the more difficult foes in the game. If you’re even slightly curious, give this game a shot because there’s nothing else like it.