Elden Ring Review

Written 20-03-2022

This game feels like the best elements of all From Software’s games with the best features of a few other games put together. You have the interconnected world of Dark Souls, the combat of Dark Souls 3, some stealth mechanics from Sekiro, a completely free open world like Zelda Breath of the Wild, and no pointers telling you exactly where to go in a similar way to Morrowind. These elements blend perfectly.

The world is a joy to explore with something interesting in every direction, and no matter what you do it feels worthwhile because you’re progressing still. You will usually find a unique item, spell, or weapon that can completely change how you play wherever you go.

When you get to the bigger dungeons they wrap round upon themselves creating these maze like places that feel very well designed. There are items hidden all over and I know I’ve missed a tonne.

The game is difficult like most of From Software’s games, but Elden Ring does this differently. Instead of often only having one way to go and one boss to fight, in Elden Ring you can turn around and look for something else to do if you get stuck and then come back when you’re stronger. I did this multiple times, and it made coming back and beating those bosses feel more rewarding. There’s also an optional tutorial, and much less vague explanations than previous From Software games which really help when you get started. This makes Elden Ring more accessible for new players.

I did have a few issues with performance though. I had four or five hard crashes. One in Godrick castle, a few in Volcano Manor and some in Farum. I also got stutters occasionally, but this seemed to improve after a patch. These didn’t make the game unplayable but it would be nice to see them fixed especially in such a reaction focused game.

All in all an amazing game. Probably one of the best open world RPGs I’ve ever played. I highly recommend it and I know I’ll come back and play more at some point.