Elden Ring: Embracing Multiple Aspects of FromSoftware's Signature Formula

Article Key Points

Elden Ring has exceeded sales expectations, selling over 20 million copies in its first year, making it FromSoftware's biggest success to date.

The game offers over 80 hours of open-world RPG exploration, seamlessly integrating FromSoftware's signature combat and narrative prowess. With the added touch of George R.R. Martin's fantasy aesthetics, Elden Ring further establishes FromSoftware as the driving force behind the Soulslike genre, inspiring other games within the genre as well.

Elden Ring has exceeded expectations within the Soulsborne community, selling over 20 million copies in its first year. This remarkable success has solidified FromSoftware, known for titles like Dark Souls and Armored Core, as a leading developer. With over 80 hours of open-world RPG exploration, Elden Ring showcases FromSoftware's expertise in combat and storytelling.

Furthermore, Elden Ring continues to thrive, attracting a large player base even as it approaches its second anniversary. Its upcoming paid expansion, Shadow of the Erdtree, is expected to be released in early 2024. With its success, Elden Ring has reaffirmed FromSoftware's position as the face of the Soulslike genre. The game's captivating world and aesthetic appeal resonate with players, even those who have not reached its conclusion. This further solidifies the belief that the distinct aesthetic of the Soulslike genre is an integral part of its appeal, drawing players in with its otherworldly beauty.

Elden Ring Embraces Soulslikes' Fantasy Aspects

Thanks to the collaborative efforts of backstory writer George R. R. Martin, co-director Hidetaka Miyazaki, and FromSoftware's extensive experience in the genre, Elden Ring overflows with the enchanting allure of fantasy. Right from the start, players have the opportunity to embody an immortal knight from medieval times, receive a mystical spirit horse as a gift from a mysterious maiden, and embark on a quest to vanquish a fire-breathing dragon in a treacherous swamp. In terms of classic Western fantasy, Elden Ring is perhaps the most quintessential title to emerge from FromSoftware since Demon's Souls, itself representing a notable nod to the traditional elements present in some of FromSoftware's previous games.

FromSoftware's History With Fantasy RPGs

Fantasy has always been ingrained in FromSoftware's DNA since the studio's early days of game development with the first three King's Field games. The connections between these titles and the later third-person Soulslikes have become widely known, and the fantasy genre has consistently been present throughout the projects that set them apart. FromSoftware has extensively experimented with the genre, from embracing traditional Western fantasy settings in games like Lost Kingdoms and Eternal Ring, to drawing inspiration from Japanese mythology in Otogi and Shadow Assault: Tenchu. Prior to Bloodborne's unique blend of Victorian technology, gothic horror, and cosmic horror, there was Shadow Tower: Abyss featuring an even more unconventional mix of guns and magic.

Fantasy Will Remain A Core Part of the Soulslike Genre

Long-time fantasy developers naturally incorporate consistent fantasy elements into their own line of action-RPGs. This influence has already had an impact on the broader Soulslike genre, as games like Hollow Knight, Salt and Sanctuary, Lords of the Fallen, and Mortal Shell all feature a fantasy aesthetic alongside their Soulslike mechanics. With the success of Elden Ring, it seems that this distinct style has become the standard for the Soulslike formula.

FromSoftware shows no signs of abandoning fantasy in the near future. In addition to the upcoming Elden Ring expansion, there are rumors building momentum about FromSoftware's next title, which could be their most high fantasy game yet. Allegedly titled Spellbound, this action-RPG is said to focus even more on the magic systems that are prominent in the Soulslike games, surpassing what was seen in Elden Ring. Regardless of the truth behind these rumors, the genres of fantasy and mech-focused science fiction are deeply intertwined with FromSoftware's work, and any games attempting to emulate their style will inevitably have to adapt or remove these genres.

Elden Ring is an RPG action game developed by From Software and published by Bandai Namco Entertainment and From Software. It was released on February 25, 2022, and is available on various platforms including PS5, Xbox One, PS4, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and PC. The game has a mature rating with blood and gore, language, suggestive themes, and violence. According to How Long to Beat, it takes approximately 58 hours to complete. Elden Ring has received a Metascore of 96. Crossplay is supported between PS4 and PS5 platforms as well as Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S. Currently, it does not have availability on PS Plus.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z fan, I am thrilled to see the success of Elden Ring and FromSoftware's continued commitment to the fantasy genre. Elden Ring's massive sales and critical acclaim demonstrate the enduring appeal of fantasy RPGs and FromSoftware's unique take on the genre. The game's rich lore, stunning visuals, and challenging combat have captivated players worldwide, solidifying FromSoftware's position as a leading developer in the action-RPG genre.

Moreover, Elden Ring's success has had a significant impact on the Soulslike genre, inspiring other games to incorporate fantasy elements into their gameplay. This trend is evident in games like Hollow Knight, Salt and Sanctuary, Lords of the Fallen, and Mortal Shell, all of which feature a fantasy aesthetic alongside their Soulslike mechanics. FromSoftware's influence on the genre has been profound, and it will be exciting to see how the studio continues to shape the evolution of the Soulslike genre in the years to come.