Why do people call Elden Ring a souls game?

It’s not just *similar* to Dark Souls; Elden Ring embodies the core DNA of the Soulsborne lineage. The combat’s fundamental rhythm – the deliberate pacing, the emphasis on precise timing and punishing enemy aggression – is identical. It’s not just about healing flasks; it’s about strategic flask management, mirroring the resource scarcity and demanding combat that defines the genre. Weapon upgrades aren’t just stat boosts; they fundamentally alter playstyles, forcing adaptation and mastery of different weapon arts, a key component carried over from Dark Souls 3. The boss weapons aren’t mere cosmetic choices; they often represent unique power fantasies, forcing you to re-evaluate your build around their strengths and weaknesses, a Souls hallmark. And while Sekiro deviated, Elden Ring’s stamina system, which directly governs both attack and defense, harkens back to the core Dark Souls stamina-based combat loop. Finally, the relatively simple, yet deeply impactful stat distribution system, while streamlined, still maintains the essential weight of every decision, mirroring the slow, methodical build crafting central to the Souls experience. The shared design philosophy permeates every aspect, from level design encouraging exploration and discovery to the punishing yet rewarding difficulty curve. It’s not an inspiration; it’s a spiritual successor, refining and expanding upon the established formula.

Did the creator of Elden Ring make Dark Souls?

Yes, Hidetaka Miyazaki, the mind behind the critically acclaimed Dark Souls trilogy, the visceral Bloodborne, the precise Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, and the sprawling Elden Ring, is the creative force behind all these titles. His consistent involvement underscores a recognizable design philosophy across these games: challenging yet rewarding gameplay built around intricate world design and a cryptic, yet compelling narrative. While each game offers a unique flavor, the core tenets of skillful combat, environmental storytelling, and a focus on player agency remain consistent.

Miyazaki’s influence extends beyond just the gameplay; the dark fantasy aesthetic and the often ambiguous lore, leaving room for extensive player interpretation, are hallmarks of his work. His recent interview with CNET, alongside other press outlets, preceding the release of Elden Ring’s Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, further cements his crucial role in shaping the future of this beloved franchise.

The upcoming DLC promises even more of the challenging yet rewarding gameplay that fans have come to expect, hinting at the expansion of the already vast world and deepening of its mysterious narrative. Miyazaki’s continued involvement guarantees a high level of quality and consistency for this highly anticipated addition to the Elden Ring experience.

What games inspired Dark Souls?

However, the story doesn’t end there. Demon’s Souls itself draws heavily from the King’s Field series. This older franchise, known for its challenging exploration and atmospheric dungeons, provided a crucial foundation in terms of gameplay mechanics and world design. Think of King’s Field as the great-grandparent of Dark Souls.

It’s important to note, though, that while Demon’s Souls inherited aspects from King’s Field, it wasn’t a direct copy. Developers consciously shifted core game design concepts, resulting in a unique experience. Here’s a breakdown of key differences and similarities:

Shared Elements:

First-person perspective (King’s Field) versus third-person (Demon’s Souls).
Emphasis on exploration and discovery within interconnected environments.
Difficult, demanding combat requiring careful planning and execution.

Key Differences:

World Design: King’s Field offered more linear level design, while Demon’s Souls introduced a more interconnected, non-linear world.
Combat: King’s Field focused more on slower, methodical combat, while Demon’s Souls emphasized faster-paced action with strategic use of stamina and item management.
Storytelling: Demon’s Souls improved upon environmental storytelling, making the narrative less direct and relying more on player discovery.

In short, while Demon’s Souls inherited the spirit of exploration and challenge from King’s Field, it refined and evolved these elements to create something truly distinct, setting the stage for the Dark Souls phenomenon.

Is Elden Ring Lore related to Dark Souls?

Elden Ring and Dark Souls share a common universe, belonging to the same fictional world, but Elden Ring is not a direct sequel. Think of it more as a spiritual successor, sharing similar themes, gameplay mechanics, and a universe rich with interconnected lore. While the surface details may seem distinct—different names, different eras—deeper exploration reveals subtle connections: similar architectural styles, recurring motifs like the Erdtree and the Lordran’s flame, and echoes of past events. The “worldbuilding” isn’t lazy; it’s a deliberate expansion, drawing on established themes while introducing new narratives and mysteries. The games build upon each other thematically, exploring overarching concepts like cyclical history, the nature of power and decay, and the burden of fate. The connections are often subtle, requiring careful attention to item descriptions, environmental storytelling, and the wider context of the FromSoftware universe to fully appreciate. The creative genius lies in weaving these threads together, presenting players with a sense of vast history while maintaining individual narratives within each title.

What is the closest thing to Elden Ring?

Elden Ring’s closest spiritual successors and contemporaries span a diverse range of titles, each offering a unique take on its core tenets. The most obvious comparisons lie within FromSoftware’s own catalog.

The Dark Souls Series: This is the foundational DNA of Elden Ring. The interconnected world, challenging combat emphasizing precise timing and pattern recognition, and cryptic lore are all directly inherited. Players expecting a similar level of difficulty and rewarding sense of accomplishment will find themselves right at home.
Demon’s Souls: The progenitor of the Soulslike genre, Demon’s Souls laid the groundwork for the atmosphere, level design, and core gameplay mechanics that Elden Ring refines. While technically less interconnected than Elden Ring, its world design and challenging boss fights resonate strongly.
Bloodborne: Though faster-paced and more gothic in tone, Bloodborne shares Elden Ring’s emphasis on skillful combat and a rewarding sense of exploration. The intricate level design and challenging boss encounters offer a similar sense of accomplishment.

Beyond FromSoftware’s works, several other games offer comparable experiences:

Rise Of The Ronin: This upcoming title promises a similar open-world setting with challenging combat, promising a samurai-themed equivalent to the fantasy experience of Elden Ring. Its open world and focus on deep combat mechanics are key similarities to watch out for.
The Legend Of Zelda: Breath Of The Wild & Tears Of The Kingdom: These games offer a comparable sense of open-world exploration and freedom, though with a vastly different combat system. The emphasis on player agency and discovery makes them appealing alternatives for those drawn to Elden Ring’s sprawling landscapes.
Stellar Blade: Another upcoming title featuring a compelling open-world structure and challenging combat, Stellar Blade offers a unique blend of action RPG mechanics with a sci-fi twist – offering a different thematic environment yet similar game play loop to Elden Ring.
Shadow Of The Colossus: While dramatically different in scale and scope, Shadow of the Colossus shares Elden Ring’s focus on epic boss encounters and a sense of lonely grandeur. Its evocative atmosphere and monumental scale provide a unique comparison.
Nioh Series: These games feature a similarly challenging combat system rooted in precise timing and strategic decision-making, emphasizing stamina management and demanding skillful play to overcome enemies. The heavy emphasis on combat mastery resonates with Elden Ring’s gameplay loop.

Ultimately, the “closest” game depends on which aspects of Elden Ring resonate most strongly with the player. Difficulty, exploration, combat mechanics, and narrative style all contribute to the overall experience, and these alternatives each offer compelling variations on that core formula.

Is Souls like a genre?

A Soulslike (also spelled Souls-like) is a subgenre of action role-playing games characterized by several distinctive features that have captivated a dedicated player base. These games are renowned for their high difficulty level, which demands precision, strategy, and patience from players. The emphasis on environmental storytelling allows narratives to unfold through exploration and discovery rather than explicit exposition.

Key elements that define the Soulslike genre include:

Dark Fantasy Setting: Most Soulslike games are set in worlds filled with gothic architecture, haunting atmospheres, and mythical creatures.
Challenging Combat Mechanics: Players must master timing and positioning to overcome formidable enemies. Combat often emphasizes stamina management and the careful observation of enemy patterns.
Punishing Difficulty: Frequent deaths are an integral part of the learning curve, encouraging players to learn from mistakes and adapt their strategies.
Interconnected World Design: Levels often feature intricate designs with shortcuts that create a sense of cohesion within the game world.
Lore-Driven Storytelling: Narrative elements are frequently conveyed through item descriptions, environmental details, and cryptic dialogue rather than direct storytelling techniques.

The appeal of Soulslike games extends beyond their mechanics; they challenge players’ perseverance while rewarding them with a profound sense of achievement upon overcoming obstacles. This subgenre has influenced numerous titles across various platforms since its inception by FromSoftware’s “Demon’s Souls” and “Dark Souls” series. As such, it continues to evolve as developers experiment with new ways to innovate within its established framework while maintaining its core principles.

What makes Elden Ring so special?

Elden Ring’s brilliance? It’s the world. Seriously, the sheer scope and depth are unlike anything I’ve experienced. We’re talking a truly breathtaking open world, not just some big map filled with filler. It’s meticulously crafted, drawing on a crazy cocktail of mythology – Celtic, Norse, Greek, Slavic, even Japanese influences all swirling together. You’ll find yourself constantly uncovering hidden lore, piecing together the fragmented history through item descriptions, environmental storytelling, and cryptic NPC conversations. The level design alone is masterful; each area feels distinct, with its own unique aesthetic and enemy types. Don’t expect a straightforward path either – exploration is heavily rewarded, with secrets tucked away in the most unexpected places. Prepare to lose yourself for hundreds of hours in this sprawling tapestry of myth and magic. This isn’t just a game world; it’s a living, breathing, believable world.

Seriously, the bosses alone… Each one’s a mini-boss fight in itself, not to mention the staggering variety in their designs and attack patterns. This game pushes you to the limit, forcing you to master every mechanic and adapt your playstyle constantly. And the sheer amount of build diversity you can achieve? Forget about linear progression – you can truly become whatever kind of warrior, sorcerer, or faith-based hero you want. This is the kind of freedom and depth that only a truly legendary game delivers.

Why are Elden Ring players called tarnished?

In Elden Ring, you play as a Tarnished, a character stripped of the Erdtree’s grace. This divine grace, a connection to the Greater Will, is crucial for life in the Lands Between. Queen Marika, driven by a desire for a new order, banished the Tarnished, deeming them unworthy. This banishment is the central premise of the game, setting you on a journey to reclaim your lost grace and potentially even claim the Elden Ring itself.

Being Tarnished isn’t just a label; it’s a gameplay mechanic. Your character’s starting stats reflect this loss of grace, often leaving them weaker and more vulnerable than other inhabitants. The absence of grace also explains why you are initially weaker than other creatures and why you rely on Runes for strength instead of the divine blessings enjoyed by many in the Lands Between.

Furthermore, the term “Tarnished” itself holds symbolic weight. The dull, almost decayed appearance of the Tarnished character models visually represent this loss of grace and the arduous journey they must undertake. This visual cue subtly communicates their diminished state and potential for greatness through overcoming hardship.

What did Miyazaki say about Elden Ring?

So, Miyazaki himself talked about Elden Ring‘s massive scope, and he nailed it. He said the core is that thrilling sense of exploration and adventure, coupled with unprecedented freedom. That’s exactly what makes it such a masterpiece.

The sheer scale is insane. It’s not just a bigger map; it’s the density of content. Every corner holds a potential secret, a hidden boss, or a fascinating lore snippet. Think about it:

The interconnected world: Unlike many open worlds that feel like a collection of isolated zones, Elden Ring’s map is beautifully interwoven. You can stumble upon entirely new areas just by following a winding path or exploring a seemingly insignificant cave.
Verticality: The game isn’t just sprawling horizontally; it utilizes verticality to create stunning vistas and hidden pathways. You’ll constantly be climbing cliffs, descending into crumbling ruins, and discovering shortcuts that dramatically change your approach to traversing the lands between.
Multiple builds and playstyles: This isn’t just lip service. You can really craft a character that fits your preferred combat style, whether you’re a faith-based warrior, a dextrous rogue, or a hulking strength-based tank. The freedom extends to the way you tackle challenges.

Miyazaki’s quote about meeting expectations explains the game’s size perfectly. To deliver on that promise of exploration, freedom, and adventure, they had to create something truly enormous. This isn’t just a game; it’s a world waiting to be uncovered. And let me tell you, the journey itself is as rewarding as finding the final boss.

Pro-tip: Don’t be afraid to get lost! Some of the best discoveries happen when you stray from the beaten path. And remember to check every nook and cranny; you never know what treasures await.

Explore thoroughly.
Experiment with builds.
Embrace the challenge.

Is Elden Ring the hardest game ever?

Elden Ring’s difficulty is legendary, a true test of skill that separates the wheat from the chaff. It’s not just hard; it’s strategically challenging. Mastering its intricate combat system demands precise timing, understanding of enemy attack patterns, and smart build crafting. Forget button-mashing; this is a game of calculated risk and reward.

Why is it so damn good despite the difficulty? The open world is a masterpiece of level design. The interconnectedness allows for multiple approaches to any given challenge. Want to grind levels? Explore! Discover hidden areas brimming with loot and powerful spells. Prefer a direct confrontation? Go for it. The choice is yours. That freedom, combined with the sheer scale, makes it addictive.

Key aspects elevating Elden Ring above other “hard” games:

Deep build customization: Hundreds of weapons, spells, and armor pieces allow for unique playstyles. Experimentation is key to finding your optimal build.
Meaningful choices: Every decision, from which path to take to which NPC to trust, has consequences shaping your playthrough.
A truly rewarding experience: Each boss victory feels monumental, a testament to your skill and perseverance. The sense of accomplishment is unmatched.

Think of it as a Souls-like esports title. The high skill ceiling creates a competitive environment even outside of structured tournaments. Mastering specific builds and strategies becomes a race to the top, showcasing individual prowess in a demanding and rewarding environment. The replayability is insane – different builds, different approaches, different outcomes. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.

Competitive aspects to consider:

Speedrunning: Minimizing playtime requires expert knowledge of the map, boss patterns, and optimal routes.
PvP combat: The intricate combat system lends itself to intense player-versus-player battles where skill and strategy reign supreme.
Build optimization: Crafting the most efficient and effective build for specific challenges is a continuous process of experimentation and refinement.

It’s not just hard; it’s a beautifully designed, incredibly challenging, and ultimately rewarding experience that deserves its place among the best games ever made.

Will there be Elden Ring 2?

While FromSoftware hasn’t announced Elden Ring 2, their silence is telling. Given the game’s massive success, a sequel is almost inevitable; it’s just a matter of when, not if. They’re likely focusing on other projects currently, strategically spreading their resources. This is standard practice for studios following a major hit – they need time to refine their engine, explore new ideas without rushing, and potentially even experiment with different game genres. Expect any sequel to build on the successes of Elden Ring while addressing potential criticisms. We might see improved NPC interactions, a more streamlined leveling system, or even a further expansion of the already impressive open world. Think of it like this: FromSoftware is currently ‘farming runes’ – building up experience and resources for an even more epic adventure. The Lands Between might be quiet for now, but the echoes of their success will reverberate for years to come. Patience, Tarnished, a worthy successor will come. Perhaps exploring their back catalog, like Demon’s Souls or Dark Souls, will ease the wait; the design DNA is quite clear.

Why did the tarnished return?

The Tarnished? Think of them as legacy players, kicked from the server – the Lands Between – for losing their divine buffs, their “grace,” courtesy of Queen Marika. A major server crash – the shattering of the Elden Ring – triggered a unique event. Fragmented grace, essentially glitched divine energy remnants, started broadcasting a comeback signal, a desperate call to arms from the Erdtree. This call, though weak, bypassed the ban, summoning the Tarnished back for a massive content update – the quest to repair the Elden Ring and reclaim their rightful place. It’s a high-stakes comeback story with insane loot drops and challenging boss encounters. The lore suggests that this “lost grace” wasn’t random; it was a calculated move by a faction or even the Erdtree itself, desperate to rebuild following the catastrophe. So, while seemingly banished, the Tarnished were ultimately essential to the game’s endgame meta, making their return a critical plot point, not just a random respawn.

Is Sekiro connected to Elden Ring?

So, the Sekiro/Elden Ring connection question… It’s a popular one, and the short answer is: no, not really. Both games are FromSoftware masterpieces, obviously, and they share some DNA – the punishing difficulty, the emphasis on precise combat, the cryptic lore. You’ve got that signature FromSoftware feel, the satisfying “git gud” moment when you finally nail that boss fight.

But the similarities are mostly genre conventions and the developer’s style. There’s no direct narrative connection, no shared characters or worlds. Think of it like this: both are amazing RPGs, but one’s a samurai action game focused on precise parrying and prosthetic tools, while the other is a sprawling open-world adventure with a massive build system. They share a lineage, sure, but they’re distinct experiences.

Here’s the thing that trips people up:

Similar Level Design Philosophy: Both games utilize cleverly designed levels with hidden paths and shortcuts that reward exploration. That’s a FromSoftware trademark, not a direct link between the games.
The “Souls-like” Genre: Both fall under the “Souls-like” umbrella, but that’s a broad genre encompassing many games with similar gameplay mechanics and difficulty. It doesn’t imply a direct connection.
Enemy Design Similarities: Some might point to similarities in enemy design, but those are likely due to the overall artistic direction and not a deliberate carry-over.

In short: People see similarities because they’re both great FromSoftware games, but don’t expect to find any hidden Easter eggs tying them together directly. They stand alone as exceptional titles in their own right.

One final note: While there’s no direct connection, appreciating the subtle nuances of the design elements across both games enhances your understanding of the developer’s unique approach to world-building and game design. Think of it as a shared artistic vision rather than a direct narrative link.