The Legacy of Elden Ring When From Software launched Elden Ring in 2022, it immediately sparked a revolution in the action RPG space. A seamless blend of the studio’s signature Souls borne formula and a vast open-world concept, the game was the brainchild of Hidetaka Miyazaki in collaboration with renowned fantasy author George R.R. Martin. Together, they delivered a world both terrifying and beautiful—The Lands Between. Nearly three years later, Elden Ring remains a defining title in modern gaming, though it isn’t without imperfections.
This review dives deep into its highlights, critiques, and why it’s still worth playing in 2025.
World-Building and Exploration: An Immersive Experience One of Elden Ring’s standout achievements is its open-world design. The Lands Between is a masterclass in atmospheric world-building. Unlike many open-world titles where exploration is driven by map markers and linear quests, Elden Ring rewards genuine curiosity. Every cave, castle, and corner holds a secret—be it a hidden boss, an unexpected NPC encounter, or powerful loot.
From the golden fields of Limgrave to the scarlet-rot-infested Caelid and the ethereal majesty of Nokron, the environments are distinct, eerie, and unforgettable. Each zone tells a story, even without dialogue. Environmental storytelling is at its finest here.
Combat Mechanics and Build Diversity The depth and complexity of Elden Ring’s combat is staggering. The system builds upon the Soulsborne foundation but adds versatility:
- Use of magic, incantations, or ranged weapons
- Traditional melee with swords, spears, and greatshields
- Stealth mechanics for silent kills
- Mounted combat on Torrent
- Spirit Ashes that summon helpful companions
Customization options through Ashes of War allow players to tailor their playstyle. Whether you’re a magic-wielding glass cannon or a heavily armored tank, the game accommodates all approaches. The freedom to respect stats mid-game ensures you’re never locked into a single build.
Art Direction, Music, and Atmosphere Visually, Elden Ring is a masterpiece. The game’s haunting landscapes and grotesque creature designs invoke a constant sense of unease. The boss arenas—from ancient amphitheaters to fiery wastelands—are cinematic and often awe-inspiring. Add to this a minimal yet moving soundtrack that adapts to combat and exploration, and you have an immersive sensory experience.
Key areas worth mentioning:
- Stormveil Castle: A vertical, interconnected fortress
- Siofra River: A haunting underground realm
- Leyndell, Royal Capital: A decaying metropolis with layers of mystery
Narrative & Lore: Deep but Obscure FromSoftware sticks to its cryptic storytelling roots. The narrative is delivered through item descriptions, NPC dialogue, and environmental cues. While this method creates a sense of discovery, it can also alienate players who prefer more structured storytelling.
Notable quests like Ranni’s storyline offer emotional depth, but many others are easy to miss or incomplete without a guide. The lore is deep—sometimes too deep—but for those willing to dive in, it’s incredibly rewarding.
Weaknesses and Critiques
1. Repetitive Content: While major dungeons are unique and memorable, many side dungeons and minor bosses repeat assets and mechanics. The sense of discovery diminishes slightly as players progress.
2. Balancing Issues: The game’s early-to-mid difficulty curve feels fair and challenging, but late-game bosses like Malenia or the Elden Beast test player patience more than skill. Overuse of Spirit Ashes can either trivialize or break boss encounters.
3. Technical Performance: Initial PC performance issues included stutters, pop-ins, and FPS drops. Most of these have been patched, but occasional hiccups still occur.
4. UI and Quality of Life Limitations: The game lacks modern conveniences such as a robust quest log or clearer fast-travel options for newcomers. While veterans may appreciate the minimalism, it’s a learning curve for many.
DLC and the Future: Shadow of the Erdtree The upcoming expansion, Shadow of the Erdtree, is expected to introduce new bosses, weapons, regions, and lore. Anticipation is high, especially given FromSoftware’s track record with post-launch content (see: Artorias of the Abyss or The Old Hunters).
This DLC could add much-needed narrative closure and gameplay diversity for returning players.
Conclusion: Elden Ring in 2025 Elden Ring is more than a game—it’s an experience. It redefines the open-world action RPG, offers meaningful exploration, and rewards patience and curiosity. Yes, it has flaws—some intrinsic to its design, others more technical—but none are severe enough to overshadow its brilliance.
Whether you’re a veteran Soulsborne fan or a first-time adventurer, Elden Ring is a title that deserves your time. And with Shadow of the Erdtree on the horizon, there’s never been a better time to return to The Lands Between.
Final Score: 9.5/10