Table of Contents

Elden Ring: A Tarnished Opportunity for Non-Souls Players?

Is Elden Ring good for non-Souls players? Absolutely. While the game certainly inherits the notorious difficulty and intricate mechanics that define FromSoftware’s “Souls” games (Dark Souls, Bloodborne, Sekiro), Elden Ring offers a much more accessible and forgiving entry point for newcomers. Its expansive open world, coupled with various gameplay mechanics designed to mitigate the brutal learning curve, makes it not only palatable but genuinely enjoyable for those who haven’t previously braved the challenges of the Soulsborne genre. Prepare to die, yes, but also prepare to explore, learn, and ultimately triumph in one of the most critically acclaimed games of recent years.

The Allure of the Lands Between for Souls Virgins

For years, the “Souls” series has held a reputation, often seen as a badge of honor, among gamers seeking a truly demanding and rewarding experience. The unforgiving combat, opaque lore, and constant threat of death have both attracted and repelled potential players. Elden Ring, however, attempts to bridge that gap. Here’s why it works for newcomers:

Open-World Freedom: Unlike the linear progression of Dark Souls, Elden Ring throws you into the vast Lands Between, a sprawling open world ripe for exploration. If you’re stuck on a difficult boss or area, you can simply ride off in another direction, level up, find new equipment, and return later with a significant advantage. This freedom alleviates the feeling of being trapped and allows players to learn at their own pace.
Spirit Ashes: These summonable allies are a game-changer for newcomers. Spirit Ashes provide valuable assistance in boss fights and challenging encounters, drawing enemy aggro, dealing extra damage, and generally making life much easier. They’re a powerful tool for overcoming hurdles and learning enemy attack patterns without constantly facing death screens.
More Accessible Build Options: Elden Ring offers a wider range of character builds and playstyles than previous Souls games. From magic-focused sorcerers to heavily armored knights, players can find a build that suits their preferred combat style. This versatility allows for more experimentation and personalization, making the game feel less punishing and more rewarding.
Asynchronous Multiplayer: The multiplayer system is another brilliant way From Software tries to make the game approachable to all types of player.
Less Punishing Death Mechanics: While death is still a constant companion, Elden Ring is more forgiving than its predecessors. In some areas, you can retrieve your lost runes (the game’s currency) even after dying multiple times. This reduces the frustration of losing progress and encourages experimentation.
Crafting and Exploration Rewards: The game rewards exploration with valuable crafting materials, powerful weapons, and hidden secrets. This encourages players to venture off the beaten path and discover new ways to enhance their character and overcome challenges.

Mastering the Basics: A Guide for New Tarnished

Even with its accessibility improvements, Elden Ring still requires players to learn some fundamental concepts. Here are a few tips for newcomers:

Embrace Death: Death is a learning experience in Elden Ring. Don’t get discouraged by repeated failures. Instead, analyze your mistakes, adjust your strategy, and try again.
Level Vigor Early: Vigor determines your health, and having a higher health pool will make a significant difference in your survivability, especially in the early game.
Explore Thoroughly: The Lands Between are filled with hidden treasures and valuable resources. Take your time to explore every nook and cranny, as you never know what you might find.
Learn Enemy Attack Patterns: Pay attention to enemy movements and telegraphs. Learning their attack patterns will help you dodge, block, and counter effectively.
Utilize Spirit Ashes: Don’t be afraid to summon Spirit Ashes for challenging encounters. They can provide a crucial edge in battle.
Experiment with Different Weapons and Skills: Elden Ring offers a vast array of weapons, spells, and skills. Experiment with different combinations to find what works best for you.
Don’t Be Afraid to Look Up Guides: If you’re truly stuck, there’s no shame in consulting online guides or communities for advice.

FAQs: Elden Ring for the Uninitiated

Here are some frequently asked questions to further alleviate any concerns about diving into Elden Ring as a non-Souls player:

1. Can I play Elden Ring if I’ve never played a Dark Souls game?

Yes, absolutely. Elden Ring is designed to be more approachable than previous Souls games, making it a good entry point for newcomers.

2. Is Elden Ring too hard for non-Souls players?

It can be challenging, but not insurmountable. The open-world structure and various gameplay mechanics provide ample opportunities to overcome difficulties.

3. Will I enjoy Elden Ring if I typically dislike challenging games?

Elden Ring offers more than just difficulty. Its captivating world, intricate lore, and rewarding exploration can appeal to a wider audience.

4. What’s the easiest class to start with in Elden Ring for a beginner?

The Confessor is often recommended for beginners due to its balanced stats and starting equipment. The Prisoner is also a good choice for its blend of melee and magic capabilities.

5. Do I need to memorize enemy attack patterns?

While memorization isn’t strictly necessary, learning enemy attack patterns will significantly improve your chances of survival.

6. Are Spirit Ashes considered “cheating” in Elden Ring?

No, Spirit Ashes are an intended game mechanic designed to assist players. There’s no shame in using them.

7. How long does it take to beat Elden Ring?

The main story can take around 50-60 hours to complete, but a completionist run can easily exceed 100 hours.

8. Is there an easy mode in Elden Ring?

No, Elden Ring doesn’t have a traditional difficulty setting. However, players can create their own “easy mode” by leveling up, exploring, and utilizing the game’s various mechanics.

9. What if I get completely stuck on a boss?

You can summon other players for assistance, explore different areas to level up, or consult online guides for strategies.

10. Does Elden Ring have a good story?

Yes, Elden Ring features a rich and intricate lore written in collaboration with George R.R. Martin. While the story is often told through environmental details and item descriptions, it’s compelling and rewarding to uncover.

11. Is Elden Ring scary?

While Elden Ring features some grotesque creatures and unsettling environments, it’s not primarily a horror game. It’s more focused on action, exploration, and challenging combat.

12. What is the benefit of multiplayer?

Multiplayer allows you to summon other players for assistance in boss fights and challenging areas. It also allows you to invade other players’ worlds for PvP combat.

13. How does the open world help players?

The open world allows players to explore at their own pace, discover new areas, and level up their character before tackling difficult challenges.

14. What if I don’t like dying repeatedly?

While death is inevitable in Elden Ring, it becomes less frequent as you improve your skills and understanding of the game. Focus on learning from your mistakes and celebrating your victories. Remember the Games Learning Society stresses the importance of resilience in games like these, where failure is a stepping stone to success. You can explore their website at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.

15. What is the most rewarding aspect of Elden Ring?

The sense of accomplishment after overcoming a difficult challenge is incredibly rewarding. Elden Ring provides a unique and satisfying experience that’s unlike any other game.

The Verdict: Embrace the Challenge, Tarnished!

Elden Ring is not a walk in the park, but it’s far from an insurmountable obstacle for non-Souls players. With its open-world freedom, forgiving mechanics, and diverse gameplay options, it offers a surprisingly accessible and rewarding experience. If you’re willing to embrace the challenge and learn from your mistakes, you’ll find yourself captivated by the vast and beautiful world of the Lands Between. So, grab your sword, summon your Spirit Ashes, and embark on an unforgettable adventure. The Elden Ring awaits!

Is Elden Ring good for non Souls players?