Elden Ringis an upcoming open-world RPG by FromSoftware. New details have been released about key gameplay features, including some new innovations it brings to the Soulslike experience.
WhileDark Soulsoffers the player some flexibility in its map design,Elden Ringtakes this to the next level by being completely open world. Bydrawing inspiration from past FromSoftware games-and making plenty of changes on its own-it manages to shake up the formula while still retaining that classic Soulslike feel.
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New gameplay features abound inElden Ringthat have never been seen in theDark Soulsseries; for one, players can craft new items using gathered resources, rather than simply upgrading their existing equipment. Similarly, players can craft potions with unique effects, which could offer them a decisive advantage against the game’s many difficult bosses, the hallmark of any FromSoftwaretitle. Also new toElden Ringare Spirits, which are summonable NPCs that the player can call upon to aid them in battle. To top it all off,Elden Ringeven has a jump button, a feature that will feelfamiliar to fans of FromSoftware’sSekiro: Shadows Die Twice. Players can use this to dodge enemies and perform jump attacks, offering a new way to engage foes in combat.
WhereElden Ringshines, though, is in the quality of life it offers in exchange for the scale ofits open-world map. Fall damage has been drastically reduced, allowing players to dive from great heights with little punishment. In addition, players have unlimited stamina outside of combat, which makes traversing large distances less painful. The game also features a summonable horse mount, which will help players traverse the Lands Between with ease and even allows for mounted combat. Finally, the day/night cycle creates a lively, natural-feeling atmosphere, adding the sensation of time passing as the player explores.
The hype surroundingElden Ringis colossal, and it’s easy to see why. FromSoftware has a track record of making great games,whether it’sBloodborne,Sekiro, or theSoulsseries. An open-world title is a new challenge for the studio, and with the aid of George R.R. Martin’s staunch worldbuilding, it’s almost certain to be a hit with fans.
Still,Elden Ringhas yet to be released; fans and naysayers alike may want to reserve judgment until the game’s release day. WhetherElden Ringwill live up to the hype or not remains to be seen.
Elden Ringwill be available on February 25th for PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
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