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Elden Ring

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Elden Ring
Item: Elden Ring
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2022

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Open World, RPG, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableFeb 25, 2022

PlatformPC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X

DeveloperFrom Software

Overview

Elden Ring is a fantasy, action and open world game with RPG elements such as stats, weapons and spells. Rise, Tarnished, and be guided by grace to brandish the power of the Elden Ring and become an Elden Lord in the Lands Between.

Elsewhere

9.4

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

"Elden Ring" garners largely positive reviews for its rich lore and complex narrative, praised for its depth and character interactions, notably influenced by George R.R. Martin. Critics celebrate its fragmented storytelling that invites exploration but also highlight issues with clarity and coherence, with some finding the lore overwhelming. Despite these criticisms, the game's unique narrative style captivates many, creating an immersive world that intrigues players, even if it may alienate those who prefer straightforward storytelling.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

82%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

18%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The overall sentiment regarding the story of "Elden Ring" among critics is largely positive, with many praising its rich lore and complex narrative. Critics like Game Rant and IGN Adria highlight the depth of the game's mythology, noting how it intricately weaves themes of power struggles and character relationships into the fabric of its world. The collaboration with George R.R. Martin is acknowledged as a significant influence, adding layers of intrigue and depth to the narrative. Critics such as Everyeye.it and Gamer.no emphasize the fragmented storytelling style, which encourages players to engage deeply with the lore and piece together the narrative through exploration and interactions with NPCs. This indirect approach to storytelling is seen as a hallmark of FromSoftware's style, enhancing the immersive experience. However, several critics also point out notable shortcomings in the narrative structure. Reviews from The Enemy and TierraGamer express disappointment in the clarity and coherence of the story, describing it as confusing and lacking clear exposition. Some critics, like JeuxActu and PC Gamer, mention that while the lore is rich, the main narrative often feels secondary to the gameplay, which can detract from the overall experience. Additionally, the reliance on cryptic item descriptions and environmental storytelling, while engaging for some, can be overwhelming for others, as noted by Video Chums and GameSkinny. This complexity can lead to a sense of disconnect from the narrative for players who prefer more straightforward storytelling. Despite the criticisms, the overall consensus among critics leans towards a favorable view of "Elden Ring's" story. Many reviewers appreciate the depth and richness of the lore, with critics like MondoXbox and Hardcore Gamer acknowledging the game's unique narrative style and engaging character interactions. While some aspects of the storytelling may alienate certain players, the majority of critics agree that the game successfully creates a captivating world filled with mysteries and challenges. The intricate blend of character-driven narratives and environmental storytelling has resonated with many, leading to a compelling experience that encourages exploration and engagement with the game's lore.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Elden Ring impresses with a captivating open world, fluid combat, and extensive character customization, winning over critics with its rich mechanics and innovative features. However, some point to issues like lack of direction, repetitive enemies, and frustrating difficulty spikes. Despite these flaws, the game stands out as a major success in the action RPG genre, appealing to both veterans and newcomers.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

96%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Elden Ring has received a predominantly positive reception from critics, highlighting its rich blend of familiar mechanics and innovative features. Many reviewers, including PlayStation Country and Destructoid, praised the game for its engaging open world that encourages exploration and experimentation. The combat system has been described as fluid and satisfying, with a variety of options available to players, such as melee, ranged, and magic attacks. Critics like RPGamer and Daily Star noted the introduction of new mechanics, such as Guard Counters and horseback combat, which enhance the overall experience. The game's character customization and the freedom it offers in playstyle have also been commended, with IGN Brasil emphasizing the extensive options available for players to tailor their approach to challenges. However, several critics pointed out notable drawbacks that could impact the overall enjoyment of the gameplay. Siliconera raised concerns about the lack of direction, which may lead to confusion for players navigating the vast open world. TrueAchievements mentioned issues with enemy repetition and poorly designed encounters, suggesting that these elements could detract from the otherwise rich experience. Additionally, some reviewers, such as Game Over Online, highlighted the presence of high difficulty spikes that might frustrate players, particularly those less familiar with the Soulsborne genre. Critics like MGG noted that while the game introduces exciting new features, it still suffers from some camera issues that can hinder gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Elden Ring delivers a compelling gameplay experience that successfully builds upon the foundation established by previous FromSoftware titles. With the majority of reviewers expressing enthusiasm for the game's mechanics and open-world design, it is clear that Elden Ring has resonated well with both veterans of the genre and newcomers alike. Critics like Windows Central and GamesBeat encapsulated this sentiment by emphasizing the rewarding nature of exploration and the depth of combat options available. Despite some criticisms regarding direction and difficulty, the overwhelming positivity surrounding the gameplay suggests that Elden Ring is a significant achievement in the action RPG genre.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Elden Ring dazzles with its stunning graphics and immersive world design, earning widespread acclaim for its dark fantasy aesthetic and richly detailed environments. Critics highlight breathtaking landscapes that enhance exploration, but warn of technical flaws like muddy textures and inconsistent framerates that mar the experience. Overall, while it may not match the technical prowess of other AAA titles, the game's artistic vision and captivating atmosphere stand out, making it a must-experience for players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

82%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

18%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Elden Ring is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its stunning artistic direction and richly detailed environments. Reviewers like M3 and PC Gamer highlight the breathtaking vistas and the beautifully crafted world, emphasizing the game's ability to create a dark and atmospheric aesthetic. Critics from Jeuxvideo.com and Meristation commend the dark fantasy art direction, noting the breathtaking panoramas that enhance the exploration experience. The game's diverse environments, from sunlit forests to grotesque landscapes, contribute to a vibrant and immersive world that invites players to explore, as highlighted by God is a Geek and PCGamesN. However, despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, there are notable criticisms regarding technical performance and graphical fidelity. Critics such as VGC and Push Square point out that while the art direction is beautiful, the graphics can appear dated, with issues like muddy textures, texture pop-in, and inconsistent framerates affecting the experience. JeuxActu and TierraGamer also mention specific graphical shortcomings that detract from the overall visual quality, particularly when compared to other contemporary titles. Performance issues, especially on certain platforms, are a recurring theme, with reviews from PC Gamer and IGN Adria noting stuttering and frame rate drops that disrupt gameplay. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Elden Ring excels in artistic design and world-building, creating a visually stunning experience that is both captivating and immersive. While there are some technical limitations and graphical issues that prevent it from reaching the highest standards set by other AAA titles, the majority of reviewers agree that the game's artistic merits and rich environments more than compensate for these shortcomings. Critics like GameByte and EGM encapsulate this sentiment, acknowledging that although the visuals may not be technically groundbreaking, they are compelling and contribute significantly to the overall experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Elden Ring's sound design and music are critically acclaimed for enhancing the gaming experience, with orchestral scores amplifying boss fights and creating a haunting atmosphere. While some minor criticisms exist—like mixed voice acting and occasional overpowering sound effects—they don't diminish the overall appreciation for the game's exceptional audio craftsmanship, marking it as a notable achievement in video game sound design.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

90%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

10%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Elden Ring have received widespread acclaim from critics, who largely agree that the audio elements significantly enhance the overall gaming experience. Many reviewers, such as IGN Japan and Hardcore Gamer, praised the soundtrack for its ability to evoke emotion and atmosphere, with compositions described as "magnificent" and "exceptional." The orchestral scores, particularly during boss fights, were highlighted for their epic quality, contributing to the tension and excitement of encounters (as noted by PC Gamer and Xbox Achievements). Critics like Eurogamer Italy and New Game Network emphasized the immersive nature of the sound design, with ambient sounds and impactful audio cues that complement the game's exploration and combat, creating a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere. Despite the overall positive reception, some criticisms emerged regarding the sound design and music. Game Rant noted that while the soundtrack may not be as attention-grabbing as other aspects of the game, it does effectively create a sense of apprehension. Additionally, Gamer.no mentioned that the music can initially feel overwhelming, although it becomes more enjoyable as players progress. Some reviewers, like Daily Star, pointed out inconsistencies in voice acting quality, which detracted from the otherwise high-quality sound experience. KeenGamer also highlighted mixing issues, where sound effects could sometimes overshadow the music, indicating that while the audio experience is generally strong, there are areas that could benefit from refinement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Elden Ring features a strong sound design and music that greatly enrich the gameplay experience. The majority of reviewers, including those from IGN Adria and The Mako Reactor, regarded the soundtrack as a standout element that enhances the game's atmosphere and emotional weight. With a blend of ambient sounds, orchestral scores, and impactful audio cues, the game successfully immerses players in its world. While some minor criticisms exist, they do not overshadow the general appreciation for the audio craftsmanship present in Elden Ring, marking it as a significant achievement in the realm of video game sound design and music.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Elden Ring is widely praised for boosting immersion and storytelling, with critics lauding performances as "excellent" and "incredible." While some minor flaws exist—like inconsistent quality and limited player character options—the overall sentiment is that the voice work significantly enriches the game's atmosphere. Most reviewers agree it's a standout feature that adds depth to the experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

56%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

44%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Elden Ring has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting its significant contribution to the game's immersive experience. Reviewers such as BaziCenter and PSX Extreme praised the performances as "excellent" and "incredible," particularly during cutscenes, which enhances the overall narrative. Similarly, Generación Xbox emphasized the high quality of English voice acting, noting that it greatly contributes to immersion and storytelling, especially in interactions with NPCs. Critics like Gamer.no and Wccftech also acknowledged how the human dialogue breaks the solitude of the game world, enriching the storytelling and atmosphere, while Vandal pointed out the effective adaptation of texts in both English and Spanish, further enhancing the narrative experience. Despite the overall acclaim, there are some criticisms regarding the voice acting in Elden Ring. Daily Star pointed out that some performances felt "a little ropey," suggesting inconsistencies in quality. T3 noted the limited voice options available for the player character, which may detract from the overall experience for some players. Additionally, Video Chums mentioned occasional long pauses in delivery, which could disrupt the flow of dialogue. Gameblog.fr raised concerns about the lack of localized voice options, potentially disappointing players who were hoping for a more diverse linguistic experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while there are minor flaws, the voice acting in Elden Ring is predominantly well-executed and enhances the game's immersive qualities. Most reviewers agree that the performances contribute significantly to the atmosphere and storytelling, with many highlighting the quality of the English voice acting. Critics like Xbox Achievements and RPG Fan encapsulate this sentiment by noting that the voice acting adds depth and a unique flavor to the game, making it a noteworthy aspect of the overall experience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Elden Ring's performance varies drastically across platforms: PS5 and Xbox Series X deliver smooth, stable gameplay with minor issues, while the PC version suffers from severe stuttering, crashes, and optimization flaws, leaving many players frustrated. Critics hope future patches will improve the PC experience, but currently, it falls short compared to its console counterparts.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

84%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Elden Ring varies significantly across different gaming platforms, with some positive aspects noted by critics. On the PlayStation 5, many reviewers, including GameSpew and Destructoid, praised the game's overall stability, with smooth performance and quick load times being highlighted. Critics like T3 and PlayStation LifeStyle noted that while there are minor hiccups, such as occasional frame rate drops and texture loading issues, the PS5 version generally maintains a polished experience. On Xbox Series X, Vandal reported a stable performance with no significant bugs or crashes, attributing this to the benefits of VRR technology. This sentiment is echoed by Generación Xbox, who noted improvements since launch and a solid technical foundation. However, the technical performance on PC has drawn considerable criticism. Multiple reviewers, including GameSkinny and Siliconera, pointed out significant issues such as stuttering, crashes, and input delays that severely hamper gameplay. Critics like ZTGD and Ragequit.gr echoed these sentiments, highlighting the lack of advanced options and persistent rendering problems. Even with patches, many reviewers, including Everyeye.it and PC Gamer, noted that optimization issues remain a concern. The PS4 version also received negative feedback from PSX Extreme, with reports of bugs and stuttering that detract from the experience, though the PS5 version was seen as an improvement. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a stark contrast in performance across platforms. The PS5 and Xbox Series X versions are generally viewed as stable, with minor issues that do not significantly detract from the gameplay experience, as noted by XGN and Gamer.no. In contrast, the PC version has been widely criticized for its technical shortcomings, with many reviewers expressing hope for future patches to resolve these issues. Critics like Merlin'in Kazanı and PC Gamer emphasized that while the game has potential, the current state of the PC port significantly undermines the overall experience. Thus, while Elden Ring offers a rich gaming experience, its technical performance has left much to be desired, especially for PC players.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Elden Ring boasts exceptional replay value, praised for its vast open world, diverse character builds, and abundant secrets. Critics celebrate its exploration and freedom in gameplay, with varied classes ensuring fresh experiences. However, some concerns linger about grinding diminishing satisfaction and overwhelming content potentially deterring engagement. Overall, the consensus is clear: Elden Ring is a must-play, inviting players to return for countless adventures.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

97%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Elden Ring is overwhelmingly positive among critics, with many praising its expansive open world, diverse character builds, and the multitude of secrets and quests available to players. Reviewers such as Jeuxvideo.com and Cultured Vultures highlight the game's encouragement of exploration and the freedom to approach objectives in various ways, which significantly enhances replayability. Critics like Game Rant and IGN Adria emphasize the variety of classes and builds, allowing players to experience the game anew with each playthrough. The vastness of the world and the potential for different endings, as noted by Atomix and Xbox Tavern, further contribute to the game's high replay value, ensuring that players can find new content and experiences even after extensive playtime. Despite the largely favorable opinions, some critics express concerns that may slightly temper the enthusiasm surrounding replay value. For instance, Game Over Online mentions that while the game allows for grinding and repeated encounters, this could diminish the satisfaction of defeating enemies, potentially impacting the overall replay value. This sentiment is echoed by Xbox Achievements, who notes that the requirement to complete the game multiple times for full completion might frustrate some players. Additionally, GamingTrend points out that the sheer volume of content could overwhelm certain players, which might deter them from fully engaging with the game's replayability. In summary, while there are a few reservations about certain aspects of Elden Ring's replay value, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive. The game's design encourages exploration, experimentation, and a variety of playstyles, leading to a rich and rewarding experience for players. Critics like PCGamesN and GameSkinny reflect the general sentiment that Elden Ring offers significant replay value, with many eager to dive back into its vast world for additional adventures. Overall, the majority of reviews suggest that Elden Ring is a game that players will want to return to multiple times, solidifying its status as a standout title in terms of replayability.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

98%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding Elden Ring from critics is overwhelmingly positive, with many reviewers labeling it a "masterpiece" and a significant achievement in game design. Critics like GAMINGbible and MGG Spain have praised the game as one of the best of the last decade, highlighting its thrilling combat, expansive world, and deep lore. The game is recognized for its ability to blend familiar elements from the Souls series with innovative open-world mechanics, offering players a rich and immersive experience. Reviewers such as Shacknews and Eurogamer Italy have emphasized its monumental achievement in combining the best aspects of the Soulsborne genre, making it a must-play for both new and returning players. The game's design, narrative depth, and rewarding exploration have resonated well with the majority of critics, leading to a consensus that it sets a new standard in the genre. However, despite the overall acclaim, several critics have pointed out notable drawbacks. Performance issues have been a recurring theme, with reviewers like Siliconera and Cubed3 expressing concerns about how these technical shortcomings can detract from the overall experience. Some critics, such as JeuxActu and IGN France, mentioned that while the game excels in many areas, it lacks certain elements that would elevate it to Game of the Year status. Additionally, the game's steep learning curve and accessibility options have been flagged as potential barriers for newcomers, as noted by T3 and New Game Network. These criticisms highlight that while Elden Ring is a triumph in many respects, it is not without its flaws. In summary, the overall consensus among critics is that Elden Ring is a landmark title for FromSoftware, celebrated for its innovative design and compelling gameplay. Reviewers like Game Informer and Gamers Heroes have lauded it as one of the best games ever made, while others acknowledge the technical issues that may hinder some players' experiences. Ultimately, the majority view Elden Ring as a masterpiece that successfully captures the essence of the Souls series while pushing the boundaries of open-world gaming, making it a significant contribution to the gaming landscape.

TL;DR

Elden Ring is hailed as a "masterpiece" and a landmark in game design, blending the best of the Souls series with innovative open-world mechanics. Critics praise its thrilling combat, expansive world, and deep lore, solidifying its status as a must-play. However, it faces criticism for technical performance issues, a steep learning curve, and lacking certain elements needed for Game of the Year status. Despite its flaws, it sets a new standard in the genre and is celebrated as one of the best games ever made.

MONSTER

Reviews

273 reviews found

100

TheGamer

PlayStation 5

Feb 23, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Elden Ring is hailed as a masterpiece that surpasses expectations, offering an engrossing and innovative gaming experience that stands out as one of the best games in recent memory.

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100

Vgames

PlayStation 5

Mar 6, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

'Elden Ring' is described as a masterpiece that redefines the Souls genre and open-world gaming, praised for its depth, environments, and balance between challenge and accessibility. It is highly recommended for all players.

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100

Pure Xbox

Xbox Series X

Mar 4, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review highly recommends Elden Ring as a crowning achievement for FromSoftware and one of the best video games ever made.

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100

Meristation

PlayStation 5

Feb 24, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Elden Ring is hailed as a masterpiece, setting a new standard in the genre with its expansive world, engaging gameplay, and artistic achievements.

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100

Carole Quintaine

PlayStation 5

Mar 18, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Elden Ring is described as a monumental game with a vast world, effective gameplay, and a rewarding exploration experience, making it a near-perfect title.

100

Windows Central

Xbox Series X

Feb 23, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Elden Ring is hailed as a masterclass in open-world game design and one of the greatest RPGs of all time, appealing to both veterans and newcomers.

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100

EGM

Xbox Series X

Mar 11, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Elden Ring is hailed as the best game FromSoftware has produced, combining the essence of the Souls series with the freedom of open-world exploration, making it a potential favorite for many players.

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100

IGN Japan

PlayStation 5

Feb 24, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Elden Ring is a remarkable title that combines a vast, intricately designed world with engaging gameplay and a compelling story, making it a must-play for fans of the genre.

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100

XboxAddict

Xbox Series X

Mar 25, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Elden Ring is hailed as one of the best games ever played, offering a unique and rewarding experience that encourages exploration and personal growth.

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100

Forbes

PlayStation 5

May 13, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is highly recommended and considered a stunning achievement, surpassing even Skyrim in many ways. It is described as a game that everyone can enjoy, even non-Soulsborne fans.

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