Elden Ring review: breathtaking, challenging, and deeply rewarding

Elden Ring Review: Why This Open World Game is a Must-Play

When FromSoftware announced Elden Ring, expectations were sky-high. Known for titles like Dark Souls, Bloodborne, and Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, FromSoftware had already cemented its reputation as a developer that delivers challenging, atmospheric, and deeply rewarding experiences. Elden Ring promised to take the studio’s signature «soulslike» formula and bring it into an expansive open world. With its release, Elden Ring has proven to be a game that exceeds expectations. Let’s break down the gameplay, world, and story in this comprehensive Elden Ring review.

An Open World Like No Other

From the moment you step into Elden Ring, the vast and beautiful open world captures your attention. Where other open-world games may feel formulaic, Elden Ring thrives on organic exploration. Every corner of the Lands Between holds the promise of danger, mystery, and hidden treasures. Exploring crumbling ruins, eerie forests, or vast underground cities offers an unmatched sense of adventure.

FromSoftware masterfully blends its signature difficulty with open-world exploration. Exploring comes with the thrill of potentially running into deadly enemies or intimidating bosses. The mix of freedom and peril ensures that every discovery feels earned.

Gameplay That Balances Difficulty and Freedom

Fans of FromSoftware’s combat systems will feel right at home with Elden Ring. It blends the slow, strategic combat of Dark Souls with the faster mechanics seen in Sekiro. Players can choose from a variety of playstyles, including melee-focused builds like Strength and Dexterity, or magic-based builds like Intelligence, Faith, and Arcane. A unique addition is Spirit Ashes, which let players summon companions to assist during tough battles.

Elden Ring remains tough, but its open design gives players new ways to tackle challenges. Its open-world nature lets players progress however they see fit. Stuck on a boss like Godrick or Malenia? Explore elsewhere, gain power, and try again. The game’s design strikes a perfect balance between accessibility and difficulty.

Memorable Boss Fights and Challenging Encounters

FromSoftware has always excelled at creating memorable boss fights, and Elden Ring is no exception. The game is packed with unforgettable encounters that test players’ skill and perseverance. From the ferocious Morgott, the Omen King, to the awe-inspiring Radahn Festival, each boss is designed with meticulous attention to detail. These encounters showcase the game’s deep combat mechanics and the importance of preparation, timing, and strategy.

Some of the most notable battles include Malenia, whose graceful yet deadly attacks make her one of the most challenging bosses in the game, and Rykard, Lord of Blasphemy, whose grotesque design and unique mechanics leave a lasting impression. Each boss fight feels like a culmination of the player’s progress, offering a satisfying blend of frustration and triumph.

A Dark Fantasy World Rich in Lore

The lore of Elden Ring is as intricate and mysterious as fans have come to expect from FromSoftware. Written in collaboration with George R.R. Martin, the story of Elden Ring is steeped in dark fantasy themes and cryptic storytelling. Players piece together the narrative through item descriptions, NPC dialogue, and environmental storytelling.

The Lands Between is a world shaped by the shattered Elden Ring and the demigods who wield its power. Characters like Queen Marika the Eternal, Radagon of the Golden Order, and the Greater Will are central to the game’s mythology, but much of the story is left open to interpretation. This approach encourages players to dig deeper into the lore, fostering a sense of immersion and discovery.

Visuals and Performance Across Platforms

On all platforms, Elden Ring is a visual masterpiece. The game’s art direction is stunning, with hauntingly beautiful environments that range from the ethereal glow of the Academy of Raya Lucaria to the desolate wastelands of Caelid. Each region has its own distinct aesthetic, making exploration a visual treat.

On PC, Elden Ring performs well, though some players have reported minor stuttering issues. The PS5 and Xbox Series X versions offer smooth performance, with faster load times and higher frame rates compared to last-gen consoles. Regardless of the platform, the game’s visuals and atmosphere are nothing short of spectacular.

Why Elden Ring Is a Must-Play

In this Elden Ring review, it’s impossible to overstate how much FromSoftware has accomplished. The game combines the punishing combat and intricate design of Dark Souls with the freedom and exploration of an open-world RPG. The result is a game that feels both familiar and revolutionary.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of FromSoftware games or a newcomer to the soulslike genre, Elden Ring offers an experience like no other. Its challenging gameplay, rich lore, and breathtaking world make it one of the best games of its generation. If you’re looking for an open-world RPG that rewards curiosity, skill, and perseverance, Elden Ring is the game for you.