Does the Game End in Leyndell? A Comprehensive Guide to Elden Ring’s Endgame
No, the game does not end in Leyndell. While Leyndell, Royal Capital, and later Leyndell, Ashen Capital, are pivotal locations in Elden Ring, serving as the setting for significant boss fights and story developments, they are not the ultimate culmination of your journey. Defeating bosses in Leyndell unlocks further areas and continues the narrative toward the true final encounter and the game’s conclusion. Players progress beyond Leyndell to locations like the Mountaintops of the Giants and Crumbling Farum Azula before confronting the final boss.
Understanding Leyndell’s Role in Elden Ring
Leyndell’s transformation from the Royal Capital to the Ashen Capital signifies a major turning point in the game. This shift occurs after defeating Maliketh, the Black Blade in Crumbling Farum Azula, a consequence that has significant implications for the world and the player’s progression. Understanding the changes that occur and the paths that open up after Leyndell is crucial for navigating the endgame.
The Significance of Leyndell’s Transformation
The change to Leyndell, Ashen Capital, dramatically alters the landscape and some of the accessible areas within the city. This event is not merely cosmetic; it affects item acquisition and the overall atmosphere of the game. While some items around the Erdtree Sanctuary remain accessible, many others become unobtainable, emphasizing the importance of thorough exploration before triggering this change.
Progression Beyond Leyndell
After completing the objectives in Leyndell, you are directed to the Mountaintops of the Giants. This area represents a significant increase in difficulty, preparing you for the challenges ahead. From the Mountaintops, the path leads to Crumbling Farum Azula, a visually stunning and strategically important location where key boss battles take place, eventually paving the way to the final confrontation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Elden Ring’s Endgame
Here are 15 frequently asked questions providing further insights into the endgame progression after reaching Leyndell in Elden Ring:
1. What should I do immediately after reaching Leyndell, Royal Capital?
Upon arriving in Leyndell, Royal Capital, your immediate goal should be to explore thoroughly. Make sure to locate key Sites of Grace, collect valuable items, and engage with the available NPCs. Be aware that some areas and items will become inaccessible after transforming Leyndell into the Ashen Capital. Use the Capital Rampart Site of Grace as a starting point and work your way through the city.
2. Where do I go after defeating Morgott, the Omen King, in Leyndell?
Defeating Morgott opens up the path to the Forbidden Lands and ultimately the Mountaintops of the Giants. A red marker will appear on your map, guiding you towards the northeast. You need to interact with the thorns blocking the entrance to the Erdtree, which requires a specific item or event trigger depending on your progress.
3. Is it possible to return to Leyndell, Royal Capital, after it becomes the Ashen Capital?
Yes, you can return to Leyndell after it becomes the Ashen Capital. However, the environment will be drastically changed, and certain areas will be altered or inaccessible. Some items and NPCs that were present in the Royal Capital will no longer be available.
4. What level should I be before entering Leyndell?
Ideally, you should be around level 80-90 before entering Leyndell. This range ensures you have sufficient stats and weapon upgrades to handle the enemies and bosses within the city. However, skill and strategy can compensate for lower levels if you’re feeling confident.
5. What missable items should I collect in Leyndell before progressing too far?
The most notable missable item in Leyndell is the Bolt of Gransax, a unique lightning-based weapon. This weapon can only be obtained before burning the Erdtree. Once Leyndell transforms into the Ashen Capital, the Bolt of Gransax becomes permanently unavailable until your next playthrough.
6. How does defeating Maliketh, the Black Blade, impact the game?
Defeating Maliketh triggers the burning of the Erdtree and transforms Leyndell, Royal Capital, into Leyndell, Ashen Capital. This event significantly alters the game world and affects the availability of certain areas and items. It also marks a point of no return for some questlines.
7. Are there any optional bosses in Leyndell?
Yes, there are several optional bosses and mini-bosses in Leyndell, including enemies like the Black Knife Assassin and various knight-type enemies. These bosses often guard valuable items or provide significant rune rewards, making them worthwhile to seek out.
8. What are the key differences between Leyndell, Royal Capital, and Leyndell, Ashen Capital?
The primary difference is the environmental change: the Royal Capital is a vibrant, bustling city, while the Ashen Capital is covered in ash and debris, reflecting the consequences of the Flame of Ruin. This transformation impacts enemy types, item locations, and overall atmosphere.
9. What quests are affected by the transformation of Leyndell?
Several quests are affected, particularly those involving NPCs located within Leyndell. Progressing to the Ashen Capital can prematurely end or alter the outcomes of these quests. It’s advisable to complete any relevant quests before defeating Maliketh.
10. What level should I be for the Mountaintops of the Giants?
The Mountaintops of the Giants are a late-game area, and you should ideally be around level 90-110 before venturing there. This will ensure you can withstand the high damage output of enemies and bosses in the area.
11. How important is it to explore Leyndell thoroughly before transforming it?
Thorough exploration of Leyndell before the transformation is crucial. Many valuable items, weapons, and armor pieces can only be obtained in the Royal Capital. Missing these can impact your build and combat capabilities for the rest of the game.
12. What happens if I miss the Bolt of Gransax?
If you miss the Bolt of Gransax, it becomes permanently unavailable for that playthrough. You will need to start a New Game Plus to obtain it. Since it is one of the Legendary Armaments, missing it prevents you from getting the associated achievement.
13. What is the recommended order for tackling areas after Leyndell?
After Leyndell, the recommended order is usually Mountaintops of the Giants, then Crumbling Farum Azula. From Farum Azula, you return to the Ashen Capital to face the final challenges of the game.
14. Does the game end immediately after defeating the final boss?
No, the game doesn’t end immediately after defeating the final boss. You are given the option to start a New Game Plus or remain in the world to complete any remaining tasks. This allows you to explore further, complete optional content, or prepare for your next playthrough.
15. What are some good things to do after beating Elden Ring?
After completing Elden Ring, you can engage in various activities, such as:
- Starting a New Game Plus.
- Completing any missed quests or dungeons.
- Defeating optional bosses.
- Experimenting with different builds.
- Participating in PvP or co-op multiplayer.
- Collecting any remaining weapons or armor sets.
- Achievement hunting to unlock all trophies.
- Exploring different ending paths.
- Delving into the lore and discovering hidden secrets.
Understanding the progression and changes that occur after reaching Leyndell is vital for maximizing your Elden Ring experience. Remember to explore thoroughly, complete quests, and prepare for the challenges that lie ahead as you continue your journey to become the Elden Lord.
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