Is Gostoc Evil? A Deep Dive into Elden Ring’s Shady Gatekeeper

No, Gostoc is not inherently evil, but he operates firmly in a moral grey area. His actions, motivated by a desire for revenge and survival within the brutal world of the Lands Between, certainly paint him as untrustworthy and opportunistic. While his thievery and treacherous acts are undeniably harmful, understanding his backstory and the circumstances that shaped him provides a more nuanced perspective than simply labeling him “evil.” He’s a product of a harsh world, trying to claw his way to some semblance of power and security, even if it means stepping on others along the way.

Understanding Gostoc: More Than Just a Rune Thief

Gostoc, the gatekeeper of Stormveil Castle, is one of the first NPCs players encounter in Elden Ring. His initial demeanor is deceptive, appearing helpful as he directs players to a less-guarded entrance to the castle. However, his true nature quickly becomes apparent as you discover he’s stealing your runes upon death and locking you in confined spaces with formidable enemies. This behavior naturally leads players to question his morality and motives.

To truly understand Gostoc, we need to consider the following:

• His Desire for Revenge: Gostoc claims to be a rightful heir stripped of his position and land. He sees Godrick the Grafted as a usurper and seeks to undermine him in any way possible. His actions against the Tarnished are, in part, driven by a desire to weaken Godrick’s forces and claim what he believes is rightfully his.

• Survival in Stormveil: Stormveil Castle is a dangerous place filled with grotesque creatures and treacherous individuals. Survival is paramount, and Gostoc likely believes that his underhanded tactics are necessary to stay alive. His ruthlessness is a reflection of the brutal environment he inhabits.

• Potential for Redemption: Depending on the player’s choices, Gostoc’s story can have a slightly more positive resolution. If the player chooses to advance Nepheli Loux and Kenneth Haight’s questline, Gostoc can be found kneeling before Nepheli in the throne room. He can even be turned into an Ancient Dragon Smithing Stone, suggesting he is a loyal subject. This shows a glimmer of humanity and a capacity for growth beyond his initial deceitful behavior.

The Spectrum of Morality in Elden Ring

Elden Ring is filled with characters who operate within shades of grey. There are few purely “good” or “evil” figures. Even seemingly benevolent characters often have hidden agendas or questionable motivations. Considering Gostoc within this context allows for a more comprehensive understanding.

His actions, while reprehensible, are not entirely out of line with the behavior of many other characters in the game. He is a survivor, shaped by the harsh realities of the Lands Between. Judging him solely on his initial acts of treachery ignores the complex factors that contribute to his behavior.

The Player’s Role in Shaping Gostoc’s Fate

Ultimately, the player determines Gostoc’s fate. You can choose to kill him early on, effectively ending his story and claiming his bell bearing. Alternatively, you can allow him to live and potentially witness his growth and eventual role in Nepheli Loux’s questline.

This choice highlights the player’s role as a moral arbiter within the game world. Elden Ring encourages players to consider the consequences of their actions and to make choices that align with their own moral compass.

Studying the morality found in video games like Elden Ring can offer valuable insights into player behavior and narrative design. More information can be found at GamesLearningSociety.org.

FAQs About Gostoc

Is it worth killing Gostoc?

Killing Gostoc early will prevent him from stealing your runes but will lock you out of obtaining an Ancient Dragon Smithing Stone from him later in the game. Completing Nepheli Loux’s questline allows you to purchase this powerful upgrade material from Gostoc (after he becomes a merchant). Weigh the benefits of immediate revenge against the potential loss of a valuable item.

Does Gostoc steal all my runes?

No, Gostoc steals 30% of your runes each time you die within Stormveil Castle before defeating Godrick.

How do I stop Gostoc from stealing my runes?

Talking to Gostoc at his various stalking locations throughout Stormveil Castle and then speaking to him again at the gatehouse will stop him from stealing runes.

Does killing Gostoc give me my runes back?

Killing Gostoc will only give you back the runes he possesses at the time of his death; it won’t retroactively return all the runes he stole previously. You must kill him before you beat Godrick to get your runes back.

Does Gostoc need to be alive for Nepheli’s quest?

No, Gostoc’s presence is not required to complete Nepheli Loux’s questline. However, his survival is necessary to obtain the Ancient Dragon Smithing Stone that he sells after the quest is completed.

What does Gostoc sell?

After opening the main gate of Stormveil Castle and after the completion of Nepheli Loux’s quest, Gostoc sells:

• Silver-Pickled Fowl Foot (200 runes)
• Ruin Fragment (100 runes)
• Furicalling Finger Remedy (1000 runes)
• Ancient Dragon Smithing Stone (20000 runes)

Is Gostoc related to Godrick?

While not explicitly stated, the dialogue suggests that Gostoc believes he has a legitimate claim to the Stormveil throne, implying a connection to the castle’s original lineage before Godrick’s arrival.

Where does Gostoc stalk you in Stormveil Castle?

Gostoc can be found in the following locations, observing the player:

• On the ruined watchtower near the main gate.
• Inside the rampart tower.
• On the roof of the cathedral where Rogier resides.

What happens if I kill Godrick before killing Gostoc?

If you defeat Godrick before killing Gostoc, he will no longer drop the runes he has stolen from you. He will, however, move on to the next stage of his questline.

What is Gostoc’s bell bearing for?

Gostoc’s Bell Bearing can be given to the Twin Maiden Husks at the Roundtable Hold. This will allow you to purchase the items he sells directly from them, but you won’t be able to purchase the Ancient Dragon Smithing Stone.

Why is Gostoc locking me in rooms?

Gostoc locks the player in rooms with enemies to weaken them and to potentially acquire their runes upon their death. This is part of his overall strategy to undermine Godrick’s control over Stormveil Castle.

Does Gostoc have any dialogue changes based on my actions?

Yes, Gostoc’s dialogue changes depending on your progress in the game and your interactions with other NPCs, particularly Nepheli Loux and Kenneth Haight.

Is Gostoc a necessary part of any ending?

No, Gostoc is not required for any of Elden Ring’s multiple endings. His involvement is primarily tied to side quests and obtaining specific items.

Can I resurrect Gostoc if I kill him?

No, Gostoc cannot be resurrected using Celestial Dew or any other in-game mechanic once he is killed.

What is Gostoc’s backstory?

Gostoc’s backstory is never fully explained, leaving much open to interpretation. He implies he was robbed of his birthright and that he hates Godrick.