ELDEN RING REVIEW

Elden Ring Review: A Masterpiece of Pain, Beauty, and Open-World Glory

Ah, Elden Ring, the latest brainchild of FromSoftware, and the game that has left countless players whispering “just one more try” at 3 AM (only to be sucker-punched by a boss for the hundredth time). Released in February 2022, this collaboration between Hidetaka Miyazaki and George R.R. Martin (yes, that George) takes the tried-and-true Soulsborne formula and chucks it into a sprawling open world. But does it stand tall among its predecessors, or does it crumble under the weight of its own ambition?

Let’s dive into the punishing beauty that is Elden Ring.

Gameplay: If Dark Souls Had a Baby With Breath of the Wild

At its core, Elden Ring plays like a classic Dark Souls game – unforgiving combat, cryptic lore, and that sense of achievement after conquering a tough boss – but it’s set in an open-world environment this time around. The Lands Between (the world of Elden Ring) isn’t just vast, it’s alive – filled with hidden caves, towering castles, and of course, enemies that will gleefully send you back to the last bonfire (or Site of Grace, as they're called here) faster than you can scream "why?!"

But the game’s genius lies in how it encourages exploration. There’s no hand-holding here. The map is enormous, and you’re left to discover its secrets on your own. You could find a hidden cave filled with treasure... or stumble into a dragon’s lair by accident. Either way, it’s exhilarating.

Oh, and let’s talk about Torrent, your ghostly steed. Riding across the map feels smooth and natural, giving a great sense of speed and freedom – until you realize that jumping into a fight on horseback doesn’t make it any easier. Expect to get unceremoniously knocked off your horse multiple times by enemies that seem to be aware of your overconfidence.

Mechanics: Praise the Flasks

Combat in Elden Ring is still as tight and precise as ever, with a variety of playstyles available to suit different players. Fancy sword and board? Sure. Want to summon magic to vaporize enemies? Go for it. Or maybe you want to roll around like a crazy person, throwing bombs and praying you don’t get hit – that’s cool too. The build variety is staggering, thanks to the addition of new mechanics like Ashes of War (which let you customize your weapon’s skills) and a robust summoning system that allows you to call upon ghostly allies to help in a pinch.

Speaking of summoning, the multiplayer elements return, letting you either summon players for help or invade their world to ruin their day. It’s chaotic, hilarious, and very on brand for the Soulsborne experience.

The game also introduces some quality-of-life improvements. Fast travel is available right from the start, and the stakes of dying are slightly lower since you can reclaim your lost runes (the currency/experience of the game) more easily. And while bosses are still difficult – some brutally so – the open-world design gives you the option to retreat, level up, and come back later when you're ready to deliver a proper beatdown.

Game Glitch Top Tens:  Elden Ring OP Weapons

Graphics: A Gritty, Gorgeous Apocalypse

If Dark Souls was bleak and Bloodborne was gothic horror, Elden Ring is a twisted fantasy. The world is both hauntingly beautiful and terrifying. One minute you’re riding across a picturesque field with golden sunlight streaming through the trees, and the next, a gigantic hand-spider (yes, it’s as unsettling as it sounds) is barreling toward you. The game’s environments are diverse – from lush forests and crumbling ruins to creepy swamps and volcano-filled wastelands.

The level of detail is nothing short of breathtaking. There’s always something catching your eye on the horizon, pulling you toward it, whether it’s a glowing tree, a distant castle, or a really, really angry dragon. Character and enemy design are equally impressive. Bosses are larger than life, each more grotesque and awe-inspiring than the last.

And let’s not forget the sound design. From the soft whistle of wind through ancient ruins to the booming orchestral soundtrack that kicks in when a boss fight starts, the audio perfectly complements the game’s visual spectacle.

Value: Pain Never Felt So Worth It

If you’re asking whether Elden Ring is worth the price, the answer is a resounding “yes.” There’s an absurd amount of content here. Between the main story, side quests (which, in true FromSoftware fashion, are as cryptic as ever), and just the sheer joy of exploring every nook and cranny of the map, this is a game that could easily swallow 100+ hours of your life.

But be warned: Elden Ring isn’t for the faint of heart. Its difficulty is as much a part of its identity as its beautiful world and deep lore. It will frustrate you, taunt you, and break you down – but every victory feels earned. And when you finally conquer that one boss that’s been tormenting you for hours? Pure bliss.

For & Against

For:

  • Vast, stunning open world with endless exploration.

  • Deep, satisfying combat and character customization.

  • Epic boss fights that will have you on the edge of your seat.

  • Smooth multiplayer integration, whether you want to co-op or invade.

  • Incredibly atmospheric soundtrack and sound design.

Against:

  • The difficulty will turn some players away – not everyone enjoys getting wrecked repeatedly.

  • The story is often unclear unless you really dig into the lore.

  • Some minor performance issues, especially on PC (though patches have improved this).

Final Verdict: 9.5/10

Elden Ring is a brutal, beautiful masterpiece that offers a staggering amount of content for players who are willing to push through its challenges. Its open-world design feels fresh and exciting while still staying true to the punishing combat and mysterious lore FromSoftware fans crave. It’s a game that will both frustrate and enthrall you – but in the best way possible.

So, grab your controller, summon your courage (and maybe some friends), and prepare to die. Again and again. But trust me, it’s worth every death.