What is Elden Ring Based In? Exploring the Influences Behind the Lands Between
Elden Ring doesn’t draw inspiration from a single, easily identifiable source. Instead, it’s a rich tapestry woven from threads of Norse mythology, Celtic folklore, high fantasy literature (particularly the works of J.R.R. Tolkien), and even elements of darker fantasy like the works of H.P. Lovecraft. This fusion, blended with Hidetaka Miyazaki’s signature worldbuilding style and George R.R. Martin’s intricate lore, results in a unique and compelling setting called the Lands Between. It’s a world that feels both familiar and utterly alien, echoing archetypal fantasy tropes while simultaneously subverting and reinventing them.
A Deep Dive into Elden Ring’s Influences
The Lands Between are far more than just a collection of fantasy clichés. Miyazaki and Martin have skillfully layered diverse influences to create a world that feels both cohesive and deeply mysterious. Let’s explore some key aspects:
Norse Mythology: The Shattering and the Greater Will
The most overt influence is undoubtedly Norse mythology. The Shattering, a cataclysmic event that shattered the Elden Ring, is a clear parallel to Ragnarök, the twilight of the gods in Norse lore. Powerful figures vying for control after a devastating event is a common theme.
Furthermore, the concept of the Greater Will, an outer god influencing the Lands Between, mirrors the influence of fate and destiny as depicted in Norse sagas. Characters are often caught between free will and the dictates of a higher power, a recurring theme in Norse mythology.
Celtic Folklore: Grace, Spirits, and Ancient Powers
While less obvious than the Norse influence, Celtic folklore subtly permeates Elden Ring. The concept of Grace, guiding the Tarnished, echoes the Celtic idea of spiritual guidance and the power of ancestors. The game is also full of spirits, ethereal beings, and ancient powers tied to the land, reminiscent of Celtic beliefs in the interconnectedness of the physical and spiritual realms.
The emphasis on nature, ancient forests, and hidden pathways also connects to the Celtic reverence for the natural world. Places like the Erdtree, an immense, glowing tree that serves as the game’s central landmark, are reminiscent of the sacred groves central to Celtic paganism.
High Fantasy Literature: Tolkien’s Influence and Beyond
J.R.R. Tolkien’s influence is undeniable in the broad strokes of Elden Ring’s worldbuilding. The concept of a vast, interconnected world with diverse races, ancient kingdoms, and powerful artifacts is a hallmark of Tolkienian fantasy. However, Elden Ring departs from Tolkien’s more straightforward morality. The Lands Between are a morally ambiguous place, where even the “good” guys have questionable motives and the “bad” guys often have compelling reasons for their actions.
Beyond Tolkien, Elden Ring draws on other high fantasy staples, such as epic quests, powerful magic systems, and the struggle against overwhelming odds. However, it subverts these tropes by presenting a world that is decaying and corrupted, where the heroes are flawed and the outcome is uncertain.
Dark Fantasy and Cosmic Horror: Lovecraftian Echoes
While not as prevalent as the other influences, elements of dark fantasy and cosmic horror, particularly the works of H.P. Lovecraft, are present in Elden Ring. The existence of outer gods like the Greater Will hints at vast, unknowable forces beyond human comprehension, a central theme in Lovecraftian horror.
Certain enemies and locations, particularly those associated with the Frenzied Flame or the Formless Mother, evoke a sense of unease and cosmic dread. The idea that humanity is insignificant in the face of these ancient, alien powers is a recurring theme in these darker corners of the Lands Between.
George R.R. Martin’s Contribution: History, Politics, and Intrigue
George R.R. Martin’s involvement is crucial in shaping the lore and backstory of Elden Ring. He provided the foundation for the world’s history, its political factions, and the complex relationships between its key figures. His influence is evident in the morally grey characters, the intricate political maneuvering, and the sense of a long and bloody history that permeates the Lands Between.
Martin’s writing brings a grounded realism to the fantasy setting, making the characters and their motivations feel believable, even in the midst of fantastical events. This contrasts with the more abstract and symbolic elements of Miyazaki’s worldbuilding, creating a unique and compelling blend.
The Unique Blend: Miyazaki’s Vision
Ultimately, Elden Ring is more than just the sum of its influences. Hidetaka Miyazaki’s unique vision is what truly sets the game apart. He takes these disparate elements and weaves them together into a cohesive and compelling whole, adding his own signature touches of ambiguity, challenging gameplay, and haunting beauty.
Miyazaki’s worldbuilding philosophy emphasizes exploration and discovery. He trusts the player to piece together the story through environmental clues, item descriptions, and cryptic dialogue. This creates a sense of mystery and encourages players to delve deeper into the lore of the Lands Between.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Elden Ring’s Influences
Here are 15 frequently asked questions that will help you understand the inspirations behind Elden Ring:
1. Is Elden Ring directly based on any specific mythology?
No, Elden Ring isn’t directly based on a single mythology. It draws inspiration from various sources, including Norse, Celtic, and Lovecraftian mythologies, creating a unique blend.
2. How much did George R.R. Martin contribute to Elden Ring?
George R.R. Martin created the backstory, history, and foundational lore of the Lands Between, including the key characters and their relationships.
3. Does Elden Ring take place in the same universe as Dark Souls?
No, Elden Ring is a completely separate entity and does not share a universe or lore with the Dark Souls series.
4. What are some specific examples of Norse influence in Elden Ring?
Examples include the Shattering mirroring Ragnarök, the Greater Will echoing the concept of fate, and the Valkyrie-like design of certain enemies.
5. How is Celtic folklore represented in the game?
Celtic influences are seen in the concept of Grace, the presence of spirits and ethereal beings, and the reverence for nature and ancient forests.
6. What Lovecraftian elements are present in Elden Ring?
Lovecraftian elements manifest in the presence of outer gods, cosmic dread, and the insignificance of humanity in the face of ancient, unknowable forces.
7. What is the Erdtree, and what does it symbolize?
The Erdtree is a giant, luminous tree that serves as the game’s central landmark. It symbolizes life, power, and the connection between the physical and spiritual realms.
8. How does Elden Ring differ from traditional high fantasy?
Elden Ring differs by presenting a morally ambiguous world, where the heroes are flawed, the outcome is uncertain, and the “good” and “evil” sides are often blurred.
9. What is the Shattering, and why is it important?
The Shattering is a cataclysmic event that shattered the Elden Ring. It is important because it sets the stage for the game’s conflict and the Tarnished’s quest.
10. What is the role of Grace in Elden Ring?
Grace is a guiding force that directs the Tarnished on their quest. It represents spiritual guidance and the power of ancestry.
11. Are there different races or species in the Lands Between?
Yes, the Lands Between are populated by various races and species, including humans, demi-gods, monsters, and other fantastical creatures.
12. How does the game encourage exploration and discovery?
The game encourages exploration by providing little explicit direction and relying on environmental clues, item descriptions, and cryptic dialogue to reveal the story.
13. What is the significance of the outer gods in Elden Ring?
The outer gods represent vast, unknowable forces beyond human comprehension, influencing the Lands Between and shaping its destiny.
14. How did Miyazaki’s vision shape the game’s final form?
Miyazaki’s vision brought together disparate influences into a cohesive whole, adding his signature ambiguity, challenging gameplay, and haunting beauty.
15. Where can I learn more about Elden Ring’s lore and backstory?
You can learn more by playing the game, exploring the environment, reading item descriptions, engaging with the community, and watching lore videos on platforms like YouTube.
By understanding these influences and design philosophies, players can gain a deeper appreciation for the richness and complexity of Elden Ring’s world. The Lands Between are a testament to the power of creative collaboration and the enduring appeal of myth, fantasy, and the unknown.