Elden Ring review: the new gold standard for RPGs

Elden Ring Review: FromSoftware’s Best Game Yet

FromSoftware’s announcement of Elden Ring had fans eagerly anticipating its release. 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. With Elden Ring, the studio aimed to combine its challenging «soulslike» gameplay with the freedom of an open-world setting. Now that the game is out, it’s clear that Elden Ring not only lives up to the hype but surpasses it in almost every way. Let’s break down the gameplay, world, and story in this comprehensive Elden Ring review.

An Open World Like No Other

One of the first things players notice in Elden Ring is its breathtaking open world. Unlike many open-world games that rely on repetitive tasks and map markers, Elden Ring encourages organic exploration. Every corner of the Lands Between holds the promise of danger, mystery, and hidden treasures. Whether you’re scaling a crumbling castle, venturing into eerie forests, or descending into a hidden underground city, the sense of discovery is unparalleled.

The open-world design is seamlessly integrated with FromSoftware’s trademark difficulty. While you’re free to roam, danger lurks in every new area, with powerful enemies and bosses waiting to challenge you. The game’s balance of risk and reward enhances the satisfaction of exploration.

Gameplay That Balances Difficulty and Freedom

At its core, Elden Ring retains the challenging combat mechanics that FromSoftware is known for. It blends the slow, strategic combat of Dark Souls with the faster mechanics seen in Sekiro. The game offers flexibility in playstyles, including melee and magic builds, allowing players to customize their combat approach. Spirit Ashes, a new feature, let players summon allies in combat, introducing fresh tactical options.

Although Elden Ring is undeniably difficult, it offers more options for players to tailor their experience. Its open-world nature lets players progress however they see fit. Challenging bosses like Godrick or Malenia encourage players to explore and grow before returning to fight them. 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.