User Score
7.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 12214 Ratings

User score distribution:
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  1. Feb 26, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is the best game of all my life, sorry Dark Souls 1, but your little brother won my heart. Expand
  2. Feb 26, 2022
    10
    Incomparable masterpiece, relaxing and more fun to play
  3. Mar 2, 2022
    10
    I'm only 40-50 hours in but this might be one of the greatest games ever made, and is definitely From Software's greatest achievement to date!
  4. Feb 26, 2022
    10
    I like it sooo much. This game is gigantic and interesting! Can't stop playing it
  5. Feb 26, 2022
    10
    One of the best games I have played. Don’t listen to all the stupid people talking trash about this game.
  6. Feb 28, 2022
    10
    This game seems to have the community split in half,
    just like Dark Souls 2 and Sekiro before it. And I am glad to be on the side of the community that enjoys it.So far it’s the best souls game I’ve played,and I’ve played all of them. The open world, the OST , the weapons , the everything. Also the sheer quality of the bosses.I think I’m in love But you’ve already read lots of praises so
    This game seems to have the community split in half,
    just like Dark Souls 2 and Sekiro before it. And I am glad to be on the side of the community that enjoys it.So far it’s the best souls game I’ve played,and I’ve played all of them. The open world, the OST , the weapons , the everything. Also the sheer quality of the bosses.I think I’m in love But you’ve already read lots of praises so let’s talk about the downsides of the game. So far it’s optimization is not perfect on ps5(I hear it’s a lot worse on pc) but I am sure it will be fixed. I don’t get people who give bad ratings to the game just because it stutters. Jeez it’s been two days until release ,have some patience. It’s graphics are mediocre for a GOTY contender. I’d give it 6/10 or 7/10 . TBH i didn’t really expect this game to be the best looking game, but it doesn’t by any means look bad. People saying it looks like a ps3 game are simply ridiculous.

    The part that left me with a sour taste in my mouth( I wouldn’t say dissapointed because I already suspected it might be this way) is that it didn’t really bring too many changes on the previous combat sytems of the game. I would be nice if the combat had more touches of sekiro and bloodborne,not just dark souls, and also add the three types of dodging( rolling like dark souls,sidestepping like sekiro and dashing like bloodborne) and make them depend on equip burden and armor
    The combat system is still a masterpiece ,but maybe it’s mechanics are perhaps a bit,old?

    Otherwise the world is great , the bosses are masterpieces and the combat system is still fun and addictive and the lore is fabulous.
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  7. Apr 19, 2022
    10
    Good gameplay i loved the experience from the first playtrough. Even with the broken pvp builds i still manage to have good experience. Didnt encounter any major bugs and glitches to ruin something. And overall i loved the gorgeous views and fights.
  8. Jun 5, 2022
    10
    Masterpiece in every conceivable way. One of the few instances in video game history where a game is deserving of critics’ 10/10 perfect scores.
  9. Nov 25, 2022
    9
    Fantastic game, with a few performance issues even on PS5 (which various DF type analysis show is the best console version of this game). A bit overrated by some but would be GOTY if not for Ragnarok.
  10. Nov 26, 2022
    9
    um jogo de mundo aberto inovador, com um combate soulslike aprimorado, tem coisa melhor ?
  11. Nov 26, 2022
    10
    BEST GAME EVER PERIOD. If you a gamer and skip this you are truly dumbo...
  12. Nov 27, 2022
    10
    Perfect Combat, explore as much or as little as you want. Great if you like a challenge. Best game of the last few years and one of the greatest of all time, though it may not be for everyone I urge any potential buyer to research if you have never played a FromSoft game or if you like a good challenge a fun and deep combat system and a mysterious open world filled with stuff you canPerfect Combat, explore as much or as little as you want. Great if you like a challenge. Best game of the last few years and one of the greatest of all time, though it may not be for everyone I urge any potential buyer to research if you have never played a FromSoft game or if you like a good challenge a fun and deep combat system and a mysterious open world filled with stuff you can choose to engage with or not, go into this knowing just the bare minimum. Expand
  13. Dec 9, 2022
    10
    Loved this game, was sad to complete it. Played it three times too. Hope there is a DLC or sequel
  14. Mar 18, 2022
    9
    Mega wielka gra. Wszystko super, nie 10 a 9 za leciwą już grafikę i FPS'y. Demon Souls to to nie jest.
  15. Nov 24, 2022
    10
    Do you rate a game 10/10 if nothing else is as good but it still have flaws? After all nothing is perfect but something has to be The Best Game. This is it: Not perfect but better than anything else released in quite awhile.
  16. Mar 18, 2022
    10
    Maior RPG que já joguei, não esperava menos do From software.
    Jogue é simplesmente uma combinação de todos os jogos da série Soulsboornekiro
  17. Mar 11, 2022
    9
    Elden Ring is if Dark Souls had a really huge map, which is superb
  18. May 17, 2022
    9
    Absolutely in my top 5 games of all time. I platinumed this game, but only reason it is not a 10/10 is because I think they should still have a difficulty setting. A buddy of mine does not like souls like games because of the difficulty and it would have been nice to play with him. Had there been some sort of difficulty setting then maybe the game becomes more accessible for others
  19. May 12, 2022
    10
    Finished it twice, both on standard and NG+

    Best game in a long time. To the naysayers, just git gud
  20. Mar 22, 2022
    10
    10/10 for the anti-shills review bombing this game over petty issues (thanks guys and gals.....for totally and completely contaminating the user review process to the point that it is utterly pointless and utterly useless) that are far and away outshined by absolutely epic Souls-style gameplay, hide and seek open world design with quests that must be uncovered to be discovered and followed10/10 for the anti-shills review bombing this game over petty issues (thanks guys and gals.....for totally and completely contaminating the user review process to the point that it is utterly pointless and utterly useless) that are far and away outshined by absolutely epic Souls-style gameplay, hide and seek open world design with quests that must be uncovered to be discovered and followed through to completion, intelligent diversification of the previously at times claustrophobic interlace corridor layout of prior Souls games, into one of the most unique and satisfying open world experiences ever crafted. User reviewers who are dropping 0's, 1's, 2's, 3's , 4's have completely lost perspective....and worse, think they're being honorable in doing so. Quite the opposite, in fact. As for the minor graphical/performance hiccups....the age old adage "gameplay trumps graphics" is absolutely hammered home in Elden Ring. And, in spite of the ridiculously low scores trying to prove a point not worth proving, the graphics are very good. They aren't "the best"...it's not Ghosts of Tsushima....but they are good. But any Souls player worth his or her salt, won't care about Ghosts style/level graphics/performance. That's never been what these games are about. It's about the art style.....the cryptic lore.....the fantastical dark fantasy elements and entities that are straight out of a Salvador Dali fever dream. It's about the build and the weapons and the magic....for a world beyond one's conception. For those of us Souls lovers who have also been pining for something.....anything....to bring in something fresh and challenging into the worn and thread-bare open world quasi-RPG adventure game genre.....Elden Ring is a colossal, shining-with-dark-light beacon.....a colossal, over-arching gold-white tree......to orient oneself around, wherever one might travel looking for hidden wonders in this perennially and compulsively wonderful and extremely dangerous world.

    Forget the embittered sad-sack, ne'er do wells spraying rectal gas all over everything because they think their activists. They are pests. The hype for this game is planted in good soil. This is a great game. Period
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  21. Apr 1, 2022
    9
    Some of the complaints from "Souls veterans" can be easily debunked.
    The graphics are maybe a 7/10 at best but the way FromSoft displays their art style that's been developed over the years, in this colossal world, really shines brightly. I found myself stopping at times looking around at the gorgeous view especially on top of large cliffs or mountains. The time of day changes can create
    Some of the complaints from "Souls veterans" can be easily debunked.
    The graphics are maybe a 7/10 at best but the way FromSoft displays their art style that's been developed over the years, in this colossal world, really shines brightly. I found myself stopping at times looking around at the gorgeous view especially on top of large cliffs or mountains. The time of day changes can create different shots as well.
    The open world in Elden Ring is done better than most open world games today. That's what's considered "Revolutionary". They kept the souls-like feel despite going open-world which is more than what most game devs are able to do with their games when going in that direction. The way they reuse assets in this game is done properly. The world isn't littered with garbage and utterly useless items making the game feel repetitive (*cough cough Ubisoft games). Some of the bosses you fight early in the game become tough regular enemies later in the game making you as the player feel stronger and accomplished with the knowledge of how to defeat such enemies. The catacombs/dungeons are structured in a way that feel the same but each have their own set of enemies, traps, secrets, rewards and items. There's a reason to go into a specific dungeon because you may want that talisman, weapon, or ash. The recycling of assets in Elden Ring is done in a way that other developers should look at as an example of how to make a game feel fresh for 100 hours. The only other game that has done this well that I've played is Batman Arkham Knight

    I wouldn't call the combat boring in any way even if you've been playing Souls games from the beginning. I mean, maybe you're just bored of it? I'm not a souls veteran by any means but I have played Souls 1, Sekiro and now this game. There is a clear difference in scale and choices in Elden Ring. The amount of different builds you can design lets the player choose from literally 50+ options of how to play the game. You can look up builds on youtube as there are many literally just making builds for this game. I think this was FromSoft's way of adding more variety but it may have also added an "easy mode" as there are some builds/weapons that are considered by the community OP and an easy way of running through Elden Ring. (ie. Moonveil, Magic, etc)

    Overall, I highly recommend this game to any gamer. It is still difficult compared to your average RPG but will be worth the time and effort if you stick through it.
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  22. Dec 5, 2022
    8
    "Potential realized but with some recycling."

    World: Elden Ring takes book straight out of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild with a very content rich open world that rewards players for exploring every nook and cranny the environments have to offer. I rarely found a section of the world that did not have some sort of secret or item within it's vicinity. Every scale and section
    "Potential realized but with some recycling."

    World:
    Elden Ring takes book straight out of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild with a very content rich open world that rewards players for exploring every nook and cranny the environments have to offer. I rarely found a section of the world that did not have some sort of secret or item within it's vicinity. Every scale and section have been crafted to encourage the players curiosity.

    Combat
    Everything you can expect from the souls formula and more! There are so many weapons, items, armor, consumables, summons, magic, enchantments that contribute to an almost endless level of combat customization that it at times can be overwhelming. However, the game is still as rewarding even with a simple sword and shield combo. Punishing yet rewarding is still present in the combat system.

    Story
    Just like every bother souls game, uncovering the mystery about the world you are dropped into and learning more about the inhabitants are still a strong staple in this game. You are going to still have to work hard to learn more about the lore and history of Elden Ring so be prepared.

    Recycling
    Almost every aspect of the game is perfect however, due to the size and scale of the game Fromsoft clearly had to reuse a lot of the same sub-bosses/bosses for many of the open world encounters. This is no fault by them but by the end of the game I found myself getting tired of seeing the same floating cat boss over and over again.

    In closing, Elden Ring makes a great lol "Beginner Friendly" entry to those looking into to finally making the leap into a souls like game. The difficulty is still very much as punishing as expected from a souls game however, the addition of spectral summons and the massive amount of weapons and magic you can learn provide ways for players to help level the field just a tiny bit.
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  23. May 18, 2022
    10
    God tier game. The best FromSoft product to date though certainly not my favorite
  24. May 14, 2022
    10
    One of my few 10/10 games. It takes the best of these amazing DS/Borne games and perfectly meshes it with a huge open world. Can spend hundreds of hours in this game. I really enjoy this game. I’m amazed that they maintained the challenging aspects while giving us such a huge world.
  25. Mar 24, 2022
    10
    I haven't played many games in the past few years. I wasn't motivated though I used to play every day when I was younger.
    But this game makes me looking forward to play again every day, when I am at work. I cant't really tell why, but for me this is the best game in years, even better than witcher 3.
    And kids, don't whine on the graphics. Art style is wonderful. All in all 10/10 points
    I haven't played many games in the past few years. I wasn't motivated though I used to play every day when I was younger.
    But this game makes me looking forward to play again every day, when I am at work. I cant't really tell why, but for me this is the best game in years, even better than witcher 3.

    And kids, don't whine on the graphics. Art style is wonderful. All in all 10/10 points in my opinion.
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  26. Mar 3, 2022
    9
    One os the best openworld game ever made
    this game is the kind of game that every owner of PS5, PS4, XBOX, XBOX SERIES, PC
    must have in your collection . Pros : history, gameplay, music, atmosphere, sidequests , everting related to the core game is amazing . cons : Bad grafics for next gen consoles, instable fps, lacked a less aggressive difficulty mode for new players . MY
    One os the best openworld game ever made
    this game is the kind of game that every owner of PS5, PS4, XBOX, XBOX SERIES, PC
    must have in your collection .

    Pros : history, gameplay, music, atmosphere, sidequests , everting related to the core game is amazing .

    cons : Bad grafics for next gen consoles, instable fps, lacked a less aggressive difficulty mode for new players .

    MY FINAL NOTE IS 9.5/10
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  27. Mar 21, 2022
    10
    So glad i got to be born in a time to experience this masterpiece, makes all the bad stuff going on around the worth truly bare-able. Although FromSoft had had a good track record, i was low key afraid that it would not live up to the hype due to the sheer amount of hype surrounding it, but FromSoft knocked it out of the park and more yet again with this one.
  28. Mar 4, 2022
    10
    FOR ALL YOU HATERS!! THE GAME WILL DEFINITELY BE GOTY AND PROBABLY GOAT SO GET READY TO GET SOME PAIN TABLET TO CURE YOU TUMMY IT'S GONNA KEEP HURTING VERY BADLY FOR A LONG WHILE
    Stop saying that the game as no story or it's too hard.
    The story and lore is there, you need to understand and unfold the story. FromSofware is famous for challenging game so stop complaining or stop trying if
    FOR ALL YOU HATERS!! THE GAME WILL DEFINITELY BE GOTY AND PROBABLY GOAT SO GET READY TO GET SOME PAIN TABLET TO CURE YOU TUMMY IT'S GONNA KEEP HURTING VERY BADLY FOR A LONG WHILE
    Stop saying that the game as no story or it's too hard.
    The story and lore is there, you need to understand and unfold the story. FromSofware is famous for challenging game so stop complaining or stop trying if you don't like difficult games.
    This game is for people who's sick of open world with ? ! and crap like that on open world maps.
    If you don't get it keep playing call of of duty and assassin creed ( I did like Odyssey)where they dumbly take you by the end and explain you what to do.
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  29. Jun 14, 2022
    10
    Almost on par with Bloodborne. My only issue is that it feels a bit overstuffed, and the re-used boss designs can add to this feeling. Still a pretty perfect game and have a hard time giving it anything but a 10 regardless.
  30. Feb 27, 2022
    10
    The game combines the best things from Dark souls and Sekiro, it's more accessible but still very hard.
  31. Feb 27, 2022
    10
    Don't trust the user score, some no lifes review bombed this game. it's a masterpiece, one of the greatest games ever made. Absolutely worth a playthrough, on any platform you choose.
  32. Apr 17, 2022
    9
    For me, the best From Software game. Not a 10 just because of the many copies of bosses that you fight again and again in the dungeons
  33. Mar 17, 2022
    10
    Such a great game! Big and full of open world awaits for you! I can highly recommend
  34. Feb 28, 2022
    10
    Dark souls 3 but open world, the rune economy could be better but still 10/10
  35. Feb 27, 2022
    10
    As an older player (the big 50) who has put countless hours into Demon Souls, Darks Souls Remastered and Dark Souls 3 and who considers Dark Souls 3 to be my favourite game of all time I have to say after about 20 hours into Elden Ring that this game is highly likely to claim the throne from Dark Souls 3. I appreciate if you are not into the Souls series as much as me you may want to comeAs an older player (the big 50) who has put countless hours into Demon Souls, Darks Souls Remastered and Dark Souls 3 and who considers Dark Souls 3 to be my favourite game of all time I have to say after about 20 hours into Elden Ring that this game is highly likely to claim the throne from Dark Souls 3. I appreciate if you are not into the Souls series as much as me you may want to come on here and give it a negative review especially if you are new to having a game not hold your hand and funnel you down a map full of quests in a logical order. This game expects you to be brave, explore, die (many times) and learn. It is not a game for some but, unlike being burnt by professional reviewers in the past for games such as Cyberpunk I can confirm they are spot on with their reviews for Elden Ring. This is a game changer for the Souls series and my definite GOTY unless I get blindsided by something else truly amazing though I highly doubt that is likely to happen. Anyway, a perfect 10 from me and just ignore the haters who probably played for a few hours and dismissed the game because the systems are purposely not as intuitive as mainstream games and they got their asses beaten before rage quitting. The only negatives are perhaps the frame rate issues I experienced on PC but on the console, I'm very happy with it and I'm sure there will still be patches there in time. Certainly no major bugs like other open world games on release.... I think FromSoftware have released an amazing well polished product that I'm sure will only get better with time... other developers should take note! Expand
  36. Feb 28, 2022
    10
    Dark Souls & Skyrim had a lovechild after a wild night, and Elden Ring was born.
  37. Mar 3, 2022
    10
    Todos os Souls games lançados até este dia, fazem com que este Elden Ring seja épico, maior, mais bonito e melhor!
  38. Mar 12, 2022
    9
    General Radhan ruins an otherwise great game. Will update review once I eventually beat this stupid boss.
  39. Mar 7, 2022
    10
    The least useful user score you'll ever find. This is one of the best games that have ever been made for so many reasons. And I can only be sorry for those who think this is fanatism, because they are the same that didn't enjoy BOTW for the weapon breaking or avoided Death Stranding because they thought it was a game about walking that only hardcore Kojima fans would defend. Really, reallyThe least useful user score you'll ever find. This is one of the best games that have ever been made for so many reasons. And I can only be sorry for those who think this is fanatism, because they are the same that didn't enjoy BOTW for the weapon breaking or avoided Death Stranding because they thought it was a game about walking that only hardcore Kojima fans would defend. Really, really sorry for you, seriously. You are missing a big part of videogame history for the stupiddiest reasons I can think of. Expand
  40. Feb 27, 2022
    10
    This game is everything I've ever wanted in a souls experience. Thank you From Soft.
  41. Feb 28, 2022
    10
    This game is going to be the best game of this year, I strongly recommend playing it on Xbox Series X, the only platform where it does not give problems with lag or fps, from software did it again but this time better than ever, it brought together the best of all the video games they have released to date in one, with a beautiful open world as well.
  42. May 19, 2022
    10
    Best game of 9th generation so far, there is only one problem, the game is not balanced in many cases, other things just perfect especially gameplay and art design.
  43. Mar 6, 2022
    10
    Masterpiece Best open world game in history Best gameplay Best souls like game ever
  44. Feb 27, 2022
    10
    Just for all the shills putting 0/10 reviews because “it feels like a dark souls game” lmao. This is more like a high 8 or 9 out of 10 everything about the game is amazing awesome loot, countless enemy types, countless bosses with all unique move sets. Rewarding loot, excellent lore. Only thing I wish it had was like a more of a main story quest which is missing here. I played this on ps5Just for all the shills putting 0/10 reviews because “it feels like a dark souls game” lmao. This is more like a high 8 or 9 out of 10 everything about the game is amazing awesome loot, countless enemy types, countless bosses with all unique move sets. Rewarding loot, excellent lore. Only thing I wish it had was like a more of a main story quest which is missing here. I played this on ps5 performs great, loading times unmatched on any other console, important to note since you’ll be dying a lot. Expand
  45. May 3, 2022
    10
    Best From Software Game so far. A Masterpiece in Open World and Action Role Play Genre!
  46. Mar 4, 2022
    10
    This is a game that will be remembered for ages to come a benchmark for open world Games and definitely goty for 2022 also just here to laugh at these normies Or casuals who couldn't beat one boss and gave this game a 0 lol
  47. Mar 1, 2022
    10
    Rare 10 out of 10 for me. It is still a FromSoftware Souls-like, so if don't expect something EASY even if it's EASIER than others.
  48. Apr 25, 2022
    10
    Elden Ring is Fromsoftware's best game so far.
    GOTY 2022 without a doubt ;)
  49. Mar 11, 2022
    10
    I know 20 hours is not that much game time considering the biggest soulslike game to date, but even so I was able to explore, and die a lot. I started with the Samurai Class thinking I could be like the Starving wolf from Sekiro, but man i was wrong... I had my ass whooped, but the problem was not the game it was my mind set.
    I got frustrated and decided to start all over as Vagabond and
    I know 20 hours is not that much game time considering the biggest soulslike game to date, but even so I was able to explore, and die a lot. I started with the Samurai Class thinking I could be like the Starving wolf from Sekiro, but man i was wrong... I had my ass whooped, but the problem was not the game it was my mind set.
    I got frustrated and decided to start all over as Vagabond and changed the play style to the one I used back in 2009 with my soldier class in Demon's Souls, ho boy, what a difference, I rearranged my equip and my weapons to a melee play style based on strength and I was able to smooth the things up.
    So if you are struggling, don't be ashamed in starting over with a new class, Elden ring brought to Soulslike genre all we needed in past games, it's less punishing but that doesn't mean it's easier, some enemies and bosses are quite challenging but very satisfying when once overcame. I haven't had any performance issues or bugs so far, only some render delays but nothing much. Overall it's a great game, maybe a new starting point for the Soulslike genre, a sample of what Fromsoftware can provide from now on, and this is something interesting about them they know how to balance between new and old ideas. This is the passion we need from more devs. For newcomers keeping up, it might be a game that suits you, if it still doesn't, well let it go!
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  50. Mar 19, 2022
    10
    I have waited patiently for the next game from FROMSOFT, but especially this one being a Dark Souls game in an open world. This game has not disappointed in the least, rather has exceeded ever expectation. It is an enormous game and it is a world filled with amazing bosses, NPCs, enemies, spells and wonders at every turn. It is worth your time and your money. You won’t regret it. My GameI have waited patiently for the next game from FROMSOFT, but especially this one being a Dark Souls game in an open world. This game has not disappointed in the least, rather has exceeded ever expectation. It is an enormous game and it is a world filled with amazing bosses, NPCs, enemies, spells and wonders at every turn. It is worth your time and your money. You won’t regret it. My Game of the Year for certain. One of the best games I’ve ever played. Expand
  51. Feb 27, 2022
    10
    Absolute masterpiece. If you have played and liked any souls game this is the magnum opus. If you have never, then you are in for a treat. Not a game that holds your hand but rewards you deeply.
  52. Feb 28, 2022
    10
    Before getting started, let it be known that I have played every FromSoftware game since Demon's Souls. I did not play King's Field or Armored Core. So in this review, when I am talking about the Soulsborne series, know it begins with Demon's Souls and ends with Sekiro.

    I was saddened when Miyazaki said he wouldn't be making any more games in the Dark Souls franchise. From Demon's Souls
    Before getting started, let it be known that I have played every FromSoftware game since Demon's Souls. I did not play King's Field or Armored Core. So in this review, when I am talking about the Soulsborne series, know it begins with Demon's Souls and ends with Sekiro.

    I was saddened when Miyazaki said he wouldn't be making any more games in the Dark Souls franchise. From Demon's Souls to Dark Souls 3, I felt that these games were just fantastic. I loved going in and out of different areas, using different builds, summoning other players/NPCs, and even doing a spot of PvP. I didn't know how I would move on not being able to play such a great series.

    Fast forward a little to Sekiro. I have not beaten Sekiro, but I do enjoy it. It is still installed, and I give it a shot every few weeks. The main issue with that game, or mainly myself, is that I am simply not good at parrying. Sekiro requires A LOT of parrying. That is not to say that it is a bad game by any means. Eventually, I will overcome the challenge of beating it. Still, it definitely did not bring me in like Bloodborne, and Dark Souls 3 did.

    Bloodborne and Dark Souls 3 are by far two of my favorite games to come out on PS4. I think I went through the entire system's life cycle with both of those games still installed to this day. People do their own prerogative with their money, but these games are not meant for one-time play-throughs. I encourage players to play through them even today with a different build than before and explore what these games really have to offer. Because that is where the love for these games lie.

    Now we move to Friday, February 25th, 2022. I did not know what to expect from Elden Ring. After being out of the FromSoftware games for a while now, since I did not play a lot of Sekiro, I was skeptical of even buying it on day one. As the release day got closer, I would see new videos showing what the game had to offer. I started to see a resemblance to Dark Souls 3, giving me the go-ahead to pick it up and play another Soulsborne game. I am glad I did this very thing.

    I didn't know how they would put a Soulsborne game into an open-world genre, but man, have they delivered. FromSoftware shows gamers that they can make an excellent, open, and unending game set in this genre. Reading the tutorial messages on the ground and fighting the weak enemy battles through the tutorial zone, I was definitely back in the saddle again (settle down, Steven Tyler). You open the final door and are revealed the gloriousness of Limgrave.

    Many reviews say this game looks like "PS3 graphics" or "no accessibility" for new players. I'm sorry, you must be new here. FromSoftware has always stuck to its guns on delivering challenging games. No one seemed to be this upset about Dark Souls 3 or Sekiro. Maybe this game had more hype than a usual FromSoftware game, but to say it is "not welcoming to new players" is such a waste of breath. All games are not made for everybody. For instance, Fortnite/Apex Legends are not accessible because every week, there is something new and garbage in my book. However, I am not going around making a big stink about it. The slogan, "mad cause bad," definitely sticks here, and to review bomb something because you keep dying is not a good discussion for anyone.

    Does Elden Ring have some flaws? Absolutely it does, but they have also doubled up on the quality of life things, like fast travel and the abundance of fast travel spots, or Sites of Grace. Do you know how nice it would have been to have a bonfire 10 steps from a boss door? Me neither.

    Another complaint I am seeing is the lack of hidden secrets on corners of the map. I watched a video of a popular streamer rage at there not being something on the corner of a map. I don't recall Breath of the Wild or Skyrim doing that either. This is exploration in a nutshell. If you find something in every nook and cranny, then the items you do find are not going to be as worth it.

    Am I biased to this series? Absolutely, but I call out bad things in games I enjoy too. I have not even started the PvP side of things yet. That could lead to the "2-second" lag that the PvP in these games has always had, which drives me nuts and is why I do not play it competitively. If you swing your weapons at me and roll, I shouldn't take damage from that swing two seconds later. We will see how that side of things plays out, as I won't dive into PvP until usually on my second play-through.

    In summary, FromSoftware delivers on an open-world Soulsborne game, especially when many games coming out cannot capitalize on the open-world aspect.

    It would be a 9 out of 10, but I found two greatswords and have dual-wielded them now, and that in itself is worth another point.

    Thanks for reading
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  53. Mar 9, 2022
    10
    Probably the best souls game only gripe and it’s a minor one is the crafting system. Feels like it lessened the rewards but as my two favorite games are BotW and Dark Souls, this game feels like a personal love letter to me (even though it feels like a letter to Tolkien, Berserk, and BotW itself). In short, if you like souls series you’ll love this.
  54. Mar 3, 2022
    10
    Finally, the true successor to Dark Souls. Elden Ring is to Dark Souls what Dark Souls was to Demon Souls. It’s a masterpiece that renders Dark Souls 2 & 3 as somewhat redundant. Don’t expect fast-paced gameplay like Bloodborne and Sekiro; while Elden Ring retains some elements from those games, it’s ultimately about taking a careful and measured approach to combat. For those who lovedFinally, the true successor to Dark Souls. Elden Ring is to Dark Souls what Dark Souls was to Demon Souls. It’s a masterpiece that renders Dark Souls 2 & 3 as somewhat redundant. Don’t expect fast-paced gameplay like Bloodborne and Sekiro; while Elden Ring retains some elements from those games, it’s ultimately about taking a careful and measured approach to combat. For those who loved Dark Souls for its sense of mystery and unparalleled loot, Elden Ring is unbelievably rich and diverse. I doubt any other RPGs exist with as many unique weapons, armor sets, spells, and abilities as Elden Ring. It cranks everything up to 11 and achieves the same level of excellence as From Soft’s greatest (Dark Soul 1, Bloodborne, Sekiro). Expand
  55. Mar 3, 2022
    10
    Great game. I’ll be playing for hundreds of hours. I don’t even know how long it will take me to platinum
  56. Mar 18, 2022
    10
    If you beat Malenia with a mimic tear or spells... no you didn't, go back and do that fight like an adult.

    Joking aside this game does what I thought to be nearly impossible - it makes a truly open world game with relatively minimal repetition, amazing level design, and consistently engaging content, all while not completely destroying the balancing (Unlike Breath of the Wild). Art
    If you beat Malenia with a mimic tear or spells... no you didn't, go back and do that fight like an adult.

    Joking aside this game does what I thought to be nearly impossible - it makes a truly open world game with relatively minimal repetition, amazing level design, and consistently engaging content, all while not completely destroying the balancing (Unlike Breath of the Wild). Art direction is dope as always, enemies are goddamn hell-nightmares as always, and this has some insanely cool looking boss fights. BOTW 2 better do something crazy because it's boutta feel DRY AS **** after Elden Ring. The existance of this game should yeet BOTW from every "best of" list from here on out. I don't wanna hear about that game any more. Elden Ring does what Zeldon't. There's more variety in Limgrave than there is in the entirety of BOTW.
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  57. Feb 28, 2022
    10
    A love letter to souls fans. One of the best games I've ever played. If you're at all a fan of Souls/Borne games you have to give this one a whirl.
  58. Feb 27, 2022
    10
    Bad reviews they are complaining are written by scrubs, we all know it. Go play something simple that holds your hand instead. I’m 47 hours in.
    Im 43 years old and been playing video games since 1983. My favorite game of all time was original Demon’s Souls. I never liked open works games because they felt empty of good design and memorable moments. To me, this is the best game ever
    Bad reviews they are complaining are written by scrubs, we all know it. Go play something simple that holds your hand instead. I’m 47 hours in.
    Im 43 years old and been playing video games since 1983. My favorite game of all time was original Demon’s Souls. I never liked open works games because they felt empty of good design and memorable moments. To me, this is the best game ever created. Wow! It’s like the best moments of Demon’s Souls over and over and over again. But new?! How do they come up with all this. Seriously, all other open world games - play this and learn from the masters. Answers to some weird bad reviews: No problem with frame drops on my PS5. You can choose between FPS or quality mode!

    The graphics isn’t all next gen like Demon’s Souls because it’s made for last gen like PS4 and Xbox. That’s also the reason why they haven’t implemented duel sense controller options
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  59. Mar 2, 2022
    10
    A true atmospheric masterpiece. A huge and interesting open world that begs to be explored. So many bosses and beautiful looking areas. This is a massive game that any Souls fan should love. I've noticed a little grass pop-in in one small area but it barely takes away from how great this game is. Listen to the professional reviewers. This game is amazing and is definitely a must play.
  60. Mar 4, 2022
    10
    If you are a souls veteran, this is a must play. This game recipe is the best anyone has to offer and until someone comes up with a better game recipe, this game will dominate. And now, back to the game.....
  61. Feb 27, 2022
    10
    Incredible adventure.
    Perfect souls

    I'm 20h and haven't even killed Godric yet
  62. Mar 2, 2022
    10
    Elden ring is a masterpiece and the fromsoftware's best entry in soulsborne series yet. If you like soulsborne, you'll absolutely love this. The open world is gorgeous and sprawling, full of a ridiculous number of interesting and unique nooks and crannies. This continues the trend of souls games having unbeliable ambiance and unique storytelling. The worldbuilding here is excellent.Elden ring is a masterpiece and the fromsoftware's best entry in soulsborne series yet. If you like soulsborne, you'll absolutely love this. The open world is gorgeous and sprawling, full of a ridiculous number of interesting and unique nooks and crannies. This continues the trend of souls games having unbeliable ambiance and unique storytelling. The worldbuilding here is excellent.

    This game is not for everyone, if you don't like souls games, this is definitely a souls experience. If you like souls this will be your game of the year.
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  63. Mar 1, 2022
    10
    Video games are my greatest passion. My #1 hobby. For 20 years I have loved and cherished and immersed myself in gaming: It is my favorite thing to do, it is a huge part of who I am as a person. Elden Ring feels like the culmination of all those 20 years. Elden Ring is the very definition of adventure, curiosity, risk, reward, failure and success. Every square inch of it begs to beVideo games are my greatest passion. My #1 hobby. For 20 years I have loved and cherished and immersed myself in gaming: It is my favorite thing to do, it is a huge part of who I am as a person. Elden Ring feels like the culmination of all those 20 years. Elden Ring is the very definition of adventure, curiosity, risk, reward, failure and success. Every square inch of it begs to be investigated, pursued, clawed at and uncovered. It is the essence of what makes video games worth playing. It defines the medium in such a way I've never seen or felt before.

    I don't say it lightly: Elden Ring is the finest video game ever made. It is everything this form of art can provide to someone willing to take it on. An unrivalled masterpiece of action, adventure, RPG structure, level design and enemy design. It is perfect.
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  64. Mar 23, 2022
    10
    Zero microtransactions. £/$49.99 on release. Huge open world, scaling difficulty. Fantastic gameplay. Single player heaven. Multiplayer incorporated, genius in design, balanced, fun. Addictive gameplay loops, top grade high fantasy characters and npc's. Distinctly different character builds. Elaborate enemies. Secrets. Crafting. Intelligent level design. Balanced gameplay. Zero egoZero microtransactions. £/$49.99 on release. Huge open world, scaling difficulty. Fantastic gameplay. Single player heaven. Multiplayer incorporated, genius in design, balanced, fun. Addictive gameplay loops, top grade high fantasy characters and npc's. Distinctly different character builds. Elaborate enemies. Secrets. Crafting. Intelligent level design. Balanced gameplay. Zero ego massaging. Intrigue, wonder, mysterious storyline. Sidequests galore. Tough but fair difficulty scaling. What the hell else do you want from a game ? Sony are you watching ? Gt7 is a disaster, this is how you make a game.

    Genre defining game 10/10
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  65. Mar 9, 2022
    10
    By far the best open world RPG I have played in a decade. From Soft has really set the bar high for any game that comes after this master piece.

    Game Play 10 Graphics 10 Fun Factor 10 Quest Lines 10 Hell its all a 10 imo I play on the PS5 so I didn't have the frame rate drops like the PC did. If you like punishing but not to punishing open world RPGs you will get lost in this
    By far the best open world RPG I have played in a decade. From Soft has really set the bar high for any game that comes after this master piece.

    Game Play 10
    Graphics 10
    Fun Factor 10
    Quest Lines 10
    Hell its all a 10 imo

    I play on the PS5 so I didn't have the frame rate drops like the PC did. If you like punishing but not to punishing open world RPGs you will get lost in this game, and not come out till it is finished....which is a very long time.
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  66. Mar 2, 2022
    10
    I managed to keep myself spoilerfree (very difficult to do), but it was so worth it! Exploration is amazing and the sense of accomplishemnt of finding hidden parts and beating so many differnet bosses is great! Game has a subtle way guiding your way if you find yourself lost. Game is difficult, but not in way I find frustrating. Game has lots of items and ways to use if help is needed.
    I
    I managed to keep myself spoilerfree (very difficult to do), but it was so worth it! Exploration is amazing and the sense of accomplishemnt of finding hidden parts and beating so many differnet bosses is great! Game has a subtle way guiding your way if you find yourself lost. Game is difficult, but not in way I find frustrating. Game has lots of items and ways to use if help is needed.
    I had some little technical hicups, but nothing major. 9.5/10
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  67. Dec 3, 2022
    10
    Absolute perfection- this is a souls borne game so if you’re not familiar with the difficulty and gameplay watch videos as these kinds of games aren’t for everyone, however, Elden Ring is the closest to a game for everyone that From Soft gas have gotten. Beautiful graphics and storyline full of nuanced lore. I’ve put in hundreds of hours and still plan to keep playing; making newAbsolute perfection- this is a souls borne game so if you’re not familiar with the difficulty and gameplay watch videos as these kinds of games aren’t for everyone, however, Elden Ring is the closest to a game for everyone that From Soft gas have gotten. Beautiful graphics and storyline full of nuanced lore. I’ve put in hundreds of hours and still plan to keep playing; making new character builds, experimenting with new weapons and ashes of war, etc…. Expand
  68. Mar 11, 2022
    10
    The open world is dense, combat is better than ever, and the story and world are engrossing with a lot to discover. This is my first FS game and it is probably one of my favorite games of all time!
  69. Mar 13, 2022
    10
    My first Souls game and I love it. Yes, it is hard and I gave up many times on random bosses. But I'm always back the other day, killing them and moving forward. I love the world and exporation. I'm going to buy and play more souls games. Because I really enjoy this one. 10/10
  70. Mar 18, 2022
    10
    Одно из лучших творений Господина Миядзаки, и пока что лучшая игра поколения.
  71. Mar 22, 2022
    10
    Very fun, better performance than pc

    Gameplay is tried and true, only improves on a fantastic formula
  72. Feb 27, 2022
    10
    simply the best game I've ever played, doubt it's gonna be surpassed in years to come
  73. Nov 22, 2022
    8
    Elden Ring é um jogo excelente, mas caso você seja já veterano em jogos estilo Souls, pode ser que dê uma esgotada de ânimo da metade pro final. Até a metade é um jogo nota 10, mas com a constante repetição de chefes, espalhados pelo exagerado mundo aberto, a vontade era só de terminar o game. Outro ponto que em pleno 2022, a Fromsoftware mantém os mesmos erros de armas atravessandoElden Ring é um jogo excelente, mas caso você seja já veterano em jogos estilo Souls, pode ser que dê uma esgotada de ânimo da metade pro final. Até a metade é um jogo nota 10, mas com a constante repetição de chefes, espalhados pelo exagerado mundo aberto, a vontade era só de terminar o game. Outro ponto que em pleno 2022, a Fromsoftware mantém os mesmos erros de armas atravessando paredes e a movimentação ruim de seus jogos. Definitivamente existe uma proteção em volta da Fromsoftware, pois já vi jogos recebendo duras criticas por conta desses problemas.

    No mais, é um jogo que vale a pena ser jogado, principalmente se voce curte os games dessa empresa.
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  74. Mar 7, 2022
    10
    The best souls game ever. Giant map, much bosses and the difficult i here like the others. Congratulations From software for this masterpiece.
  75. Mar 6, 2022
    10
    I gave up because Sekiro was also difficult. However, after playing the Elden Ring for 6 hours, I am very satisfied. This is because, despite the extreme difficulty, it provides various alternatives by taking advantage of the open world.
  76. Mar 5, 2022
    10
    Masterpiece! Can't see myself playing anything else from now on. Just get it!
  77. Mar 6, 2022
    10
    A masterpiece in gaming that will never be forgotten. This is generation defining.
  78. Feb 28, 2022
    10
    Good game! Only had frame rate issues once so far. Just as much fun as Bloodborne but more accessible since there are fewer bosses that you are required to defeat before proceeding with the game. If you can’t pass through a particular area, there are plenty of other places to explore before taking another crack at it.
  79. Mar 21, 2022
    10
    I can live in this world! The level design of this game is suppa-awesome with all of the legacy (which is good for me) from previous game series.
  80. Jan 29, 2023
    10
    You only get it when you play it. When you force yourself to grow better and stronger
  81. Feb 28, 2022
    10
    The gameplay is amazing, the world is HUGE but filled with new content at every turn. This is by far the best open world design I have seen, it's impossible to guess what will come up at the next corner unlike mist open world games where it's always rinse and repeat. Just for these reasons and the fact that I am addicted, I rate this game 10/10. The PS5 optimization is poor and theThe gameplay is amazing, the world is HUGE but filled with new content at every turn. This is by far the best open world design I have seen, it's impossible to guess what will come up at the next corner unlike mist open world games where it's always rinse and repeat. Just for these reasons and the fact that I am addicted, I rate this game 10/10. The PS5 optimization is poor and the graphics are nothing exceptional, I hope PS5 optimization gets patched (even in framerate priorisation mode, there are many framerate drops and graphics often popup, such as grass). The game is so good that I can easily give 10/10 even with these optimisation issues :) Expand
  82. Feb 27, 2022
    10
    Most of the time when game studios try to innovate and improve their perfectly working game, they burn and crash. But in this case, From Software has improved every aspect of previous Souls games.
  83. Mar 10, 2022
    10
    On my second playthrough. Definitely not a game for everyone, but personally I think it's near perfection. Definitely the best game I've played this year, and possibly the best game I've played in the last 10 years.
  84. Feb 28, 2022
    10
    An absolutely fantastic game. Immersive world. Every corner has something to explore and it doesn't feel bloated. This feat will be hard to beat and i doubt fromsoftware will be able to pull it off again. The game is a perfect fit for what's missing in gaming 2022
  85. Feb 28, 2022
    10
    Best game ever (after Bloodborne). Mastery of the soulsborne genre. I have spend a considerable amount of time with this game and sm hooked…
  86. Mar 1, 2022
    10
    People who are hating on the graphics in this game are missing the point. The world building and aesthetic are amazing, so many reasons to explore every corner, and the combat is the best it's ever been. Too many newcomers to the souls series going in expecting breath of the wild, getting killed over and over and deciding to review bomb the game because they're not capable of putting inPeople who are hating on the graphics in this game are missing the point. The world building and aesthetic are amazing, so many reasons to explore every corner, and the combat is the best it's ever been. Too many newcomers to the souls series going in expecting breath of the wild, getting killed over and over and deciding to review bomb the game because they're not capable of putting in the effort to find the payout. It's a bummer, honestly. I'm loving it, and am extremely satisfied, especially given the hype. Expand
  87. Feb 27, 2022
    10
    This isn’t just the best Souls game ever. It’s the best game ever made period! For those that had been scared off by FromSoftwares previous offerings, this game is for you as it’s easily the most approachable Souls game ever as it offers numerous save points and it allows you to play as you wish.
  88. Mar 5, 2022
    10
    Top notch game.one of the best game ever.This is the ultimate version of Dark Souls thanks to its vast and gigantic open world.
  89. Mar 5, 2022
    10
    Most epic Dark Souls ever! Ignore those bad ratings, it's all the same whimpering mob it's always been... they can't take challenges, can't take failure, disappointments, being lost or other "unjoyments" and mock around about everything they can find, just to ignore the most important part: THEY SUCK! ;)

    This is the greatest adventure with REAL emotions I've ever played so far. It's
    Most epic Dark Souls ever! Ignore those bad ratings, it's all the same whimpering mob it's always been... they can't take challenges, can't take failure, disappointments, being lost or other "unjoyments" and mock around about everything they can find, just to ignore the most important part: THEY SUCK! ;)

    This is the greatest adventure with REAL emotions I've ever played so far. It's gigantic and you will find the best of Dark Souls, Demon Souls, Bloodborne AND an living open world combined. If you seek out a true adventure, with all it's ups and downs you'll love it. If you wanna indulge your lack of perseverance or just be a constant loosing winner, go play Assassin's Creed, Far Cry or anything alike. You will NOT earn a place at the table of Soul-Seekers.....
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  90. Mar 12, 2022
    10
    Probably my favourite game of all time, or top 3 at least..................
  91. Mar 1, 2022
    10
    OoooooOOoooh Elden Ring!

    Hot tamales what an awesome game. Greatest game I’ve ever played. Playing on PS5. Does the frame rate drop by a couple frames here and there? Sure. Does it at all impact my experience or enjoyment of the game? Hell no.
  92. May 16, 2022
    10
    The best game of soulsborne sereies and probably the best game I have ever played. Open world fits this game like an good old shues. Must play for all Fromsoft fans, very good (if not the best one) entering to this franchise for others. My friend did not play any of soulsborne game before, now he is 100 hours in and can’t stop playing.
  93. Mar 7, 2022
    10
    Everything i wanted and more. Ultimate souls game. Only problem is (like in every from software game) droping fps, but that is fixable and it does not ruin the experience. Absolutely love it!!
  94. Feb 26, 2022
    10
    The best game ever!! **** game is awesome!! The ponpit herb in nothing about the game. You are **** sensible!!
  95. Feb 27, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Замечательная игра выдержанная в духе мастера Миядзаки с интересным открытым миром Expand
  96. Feb 27, 2022
    10
    Absolute 10/10 game. An absolute artistic masterpiece, that also happens to play brilliantly. I've never been huge into the souls games until PS5 era, and I'm so happy I have been able to get into it and have fun. The exploration aspect is just so cool, and the boss designs so far have been perfect for me- challenging but not overly so where I feel like I am getting stuck.
  97. Mar 3, 2022
    10
    I've been playing video games since 23 years and this is literally the best game I've ever played!
  98. Feb 26, 2022
    10
    The game is everything that I was waiting for as a fan of the series. The story looks more understandable and the gameplay is great! The world is massive. I am giving it a 10 even with the fps instability in some scenarios, because that is not critical and doesn’t ruined the experience. I am in love with this game and will play many many hours, the replay factor is incredible. This game isThe game is everything that I was waiting for as a fan of the series. The story looks more understandable and the gameplay is great! The world is massive. I am giving it a 10 even with the fps instability in some scenarios, because that is not critical and doesn’t ruined the experience. I am in love with this game and will play many many hours, the replay factor is incredible. This game is awesome! Expand
  99. Mar 21, 2022
    10
    Exact the „Souls“ we all wanted. Masterpiece and Game of the Year '22 so far.
  100. Mar 5, 2022
    10
    Its a world with obscene polish given its level of density, combat is visceral and satisfying, and checkpoints are plentiful. The people complaining either live in the SEA region(very valid complaint) or haven't beaten margit and want to try to make a comparison to cyberpunk to seem like its a game problem
Metascore
96

Universal acclaim - based on 86 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 86 out of 86
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 86
  3. Negative: 0 out of 86
  1. LEVEL (Czech Republic)
    Jan 30, 2024
    100
    Elden Ring is simply a game that the player naturally adapts to their own style of play. Challenging at times, vicious at others, but mostly incredibly fun. The enjoyable pace makes the hours of play pass by like water, and each path opens up a few more, only to come together again after a fair amount of exploration before the next big reveal. [Issue#318]
  2. Jun 2, 2023
    90
    Elden Ring serves as a testament to open world video game design. There is a true sense of accomplishment once that rock-hard enemy has been slain and, something that compels a player to relentlessly do it over and over again until they succeed is truly rewarding. The world is humongous and an epitome of how exploration should be encouraged, by intriguing players to see what is over the hill. Elden Ring is an unmissable, must-play, gaming experience with surprises galore.
  3. Aug 11, 2022
    80
    Elden Ring's engaging combat, mythology and dynamite orchestral soundtrack goes a long way to overshadow an aggressive open world that punishes exploration from the beaten path. Fans of the Souls genre are in for a treat, while newcomers will need to persist to reap the benefits.