Is Guts in Elden Ring? Unpacking the Berserk Connection
No, Guts, the iconic Black Swordsman from the manga and anime series Berserk, is not a playable character or a non-player character (NPC) directly within Elden Ring. However, the influence of Berserk on Elden Ring is undeniable and pervasive, leading to a plethora of in-game items, armor sets, and even character poses that evoke the spirit of the dark fantasy series. While you won’t find a direct recreation of Guts wielding his Dragon Slayer, Elden Ring is a treasure trove of homages that allow players to craft their own version of the beloved character, making it possible to experience the game in the shoes of a Berserk-inspired warrior. This deliberate choice by FromSoftware to pay tribute rather than replicate creates a unique and satisfying experience for fans of both franchises.
The Spirit of Berserk in the Lands Between
The connection between Berserk and the Souls-like genre is well-documented, with Dark Souls being the most prominent example. Hidetaka Miyazaki, the mastermind behind FromSoftware’s hit titles, has openly acknowledged the significant inspiration he draws from Kentaro Miura’s masterpiece. Elden Ring, as the latest iteration, continues this tradition, embedding numerous Berserk easter eggs throughout its vast open world.
Guts’ Gear: Finding the Dragon Slayer Stand-in
One of the most compelling aspects of recreating Guts in Elden Ring is acquiring his iconic weapon, the Dragon Slayer. While you won’t find a direct replica, the Greatsword, found in a chest located in an abandoned treasure cart near the Smoldering Church, serves as an incredible stand-in. Its sheer size and brutal appearance perfectly capture the essence of the massive blade wielded by Guts. Coupled with a black armor set and a suitable character build, you can easily emulate the Black Swordsman’s presence.
Beyond the Sword: Other Berserk Touches
Beyond the weapon, other elements within Elden Ring resonate with the Berserk universe. Certain armor pieces, like the Night Cavalry Set, evoke the dark, imposing presence of the series. The way some enemies move, the brutal combat style, and even the overall atmosphere of dread and struggle are reminiscent of the brutal world Berserk presents. These elements, combined with the ability to dual-wield greatswords, further cement the ability to capture the essence of Guts in Elden Ring.
Direct References and Easter Eggs
The game goes beyond visual homages, including moments that are direct references to scenes or characters from Berserk. While they do not feature Guts directly, they contribute to an atmosphere of dark fantasy heavily influenced by the manga. This approach allows players to feel like they are experiencing a Berserk-inspired adventure while playing Elden Ring, creating a unique and satisfying experience for fans of the source material.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is there a direct character named Guts in Elden Ring?
No, there is no character directly named Guts in Elden Ring. However, the game contains numerous items and elements that allow players to create a character that strongly resembles him.
2. Can I find the Dragon Slayer sword in Elden Ring?
While not officially called “Dragon Slayer,” the Greatsword is the closest equivalent and is widely considered a tribute to Guts’ signature weapon.
3. Where is the Greatsword located in Elden Ring?
The Greatsword can be found in an abandoned treasure cart off the side of the road near the Smoldering Church in Caellid/northern Limgrave.
4. What other gear can be used to create a Guts cosplay in Elden Ring?
Armor sets like the Night Cavalry Set, and the Blackflame Monk Set provide the dark, imposing look that is consistent with Guts’ appearance. Players can also use a variety of greatswords and other heavy weapons to emulate Guts’ fighting style.
5. Has Hidetaka Miyazaki ever spoken about the influence of Berserk on his games?
Yes, Miyazaki has repeatedly cited Berserk as a significant inspiration for his games, including the Dark Souls series and Elden Ring. He has acknowledged that the manga sits on his shelf alongside his favorites, and mentioned the influence in interviews, especially regarding design aesthetics.
6. Are there any specific scenes or character poses in Elden Ring that reference Berserk?
Yes, a particular pose featured in the promotional art of Elden Ring bears a striking resemblance to Guts’ iconic pose when he wears the Berserker Armor. Additionally, characters and enemies often exhibit design cues reminiscent of Berserk.
7. Is the Hunter’s Mark in Bloodborne a reference to Berserk?
Yes, the Hunter’s Mark in Bloodborne is widely considered to be a reference to the Brand of Sacrifice from Berserk.
8. Are the Dark Souls games also inspired by Berserk?
Absolutely. The Dark Souls series is heavily influenced by Berserk, with numerous armor sets, weapons, and character designs that pay homage to the manga. Characters like Artorias were heavily influenced by Guts.
9. Is Elden Ring a remake of Berserk?
No, Elden Ring is not a remake of Berserk. It is an original game that draws heavily from Berserk‘s themes, aesthetics, and tone while creating its own unique world and story.
10. Did Berserk influence other video games?
Yes, Berserk has had a massive impact on the gaming industry, particularly on the action RPG genre. Many games draw inspiration from its art style, story, and brutal combat, particularly the Souls-like subgenre.
11. Is there DLC for Elden Ring and will it have more Berserk content?
Yes, Shadow of the Erdtree is the DLC for Elden Ring. While its direct relation to Berserk is yet to be seen, given FromSoftware’s track record, it is likely to feature additional homages to various influences, including Berserk.
12. How tall is Guts, the character in Berserk?
Guts’ height varies according to sources, but is generally understood to be between 6’3 and 6’8
13. How heavy is the Dragon Slayer?
The Dragon Slayer’s weight is often speculated to be around 440 lbs, with some fan calculations going as high as 660 lbs, while others go as low as 220 lbs.
14. What other works inspired Berserk?
Kentaro Miura stated that the 1982 film Conan the Barbarian and the Elric of Melniboné series were primary inspirations for Berserk. He mentioned Fist of the North Star, Dororo, and Mad Max, among others as other sources of influence.
15. How long does it take to complete Elden Ring?
Completing the main story of Elden Ring takes about 58 hours. However, players aiming for a 100% completion should expect to spend around 133 hours or more.
Conclusion: Embracing the Berserk Legacy in Elden Ring
While Guts himself doesn’t directly inhabit the world of Elden Ring, his presence is profoundly felt through the game’s meticulous design and countless references. The ability to piece together equipment and develop a play style that echoes the legendary Black Swordsman provides a unique and satisfying experience for Berserk fans. This fusion of dark fantasy aesthetics and challenging gameplay makes Elden Ring a must-play for anyone who appreciates the legacy and impact of Berserk. The game’s world allows players to live out their ultimate fan fantasy, stepping into the shoes of a powerful warrior inspired by their favorite manga character.