Game Rant recently interviewed the lead designer of the Garden of Eyes overhaul mod for Elden Ring to discuss the ongoing project. This mod incorporates various reworks and additions to both new and existing weapons and armor sets in Elden Ring, drawing inspiration from past FromSoft titles, particularly Bloodborne.
The mod team has a strong background in Bloodborne, having initially gained recognition for creating modded videos for the game and even adopting a name inspired by one of Bloodborne's adversaries. Notably, The Garden of Eyes recently developed a Bloodborne mod for the Lies of P demo as well. The team's deep affection for Bloodborne is also evident in the Elden Ring project, with the inclusion of features such as Trick Weapons and even gun-parrying mechanics.
The Garden of Eyes Mod Seeks to Capture the Magic of Bloodborne, But With a Fresh Take
Bloodborne holds a special place in the hearts of the developers, evident from the significant inclusion of elements from the game in the Garden of Eyes project. The lead designer expressed their admiration for the game when discussing the reasoning behind incorporating so many aspects from it.
Bloodborne has garnered a dedicated following, with fans eagerly anticipating a remake or sequel at every gaming event. The game holds a special place in the hearts of soulslike enthusiasts, and we wanted to incorporate some of its beloved elements into Elden Ring, enhancing the gameplay and introducing more diversity.
One of the key aspects we aimed to capture is Bloodborne's distinctive aesthetic, with its Victorian, Gothic, and Lovecraftian influences. This mod reflects that unique style, further immersing players in a world reminiscent of Bloodborne.
However, it is not just the visual appeal that sets Bloodborne apart from other Soulslike games. The gameplay mechanics also contribute to its standout status. Bloodborne is renowned for its aggressive nature, and we wanted to infuse this sense of intensity into Elden Ring. Trick Weapons and gun-parrying are two gameplay features closely associated with Bloodborne, offering a level of build variety that has become a signature aspect of the game. By incorporating these elements, players will have the opportunity to experience a range of playstyles and strategies, enhancing their overall gaming experience.
The Garden of Eyes mod introduces the concept of Bloodborne weapons, revamped Elden Ring weapons, and entirely new weapons exclusive to the mod. This comprehensive overhaul showcases the mod's impressive scope, solidifying its reputation within the community. The inclusion of Elden Ring-themed Trick Weapons adds an exhilarating element to the experience.
"We have crafted Trick Weapons inspired by the world of Elden Ring. The idea of having two weapons in one presents a unique chance for diversity and innovation. For example, one of our creations is a dagger that transforms into a pickaxe. Additionally, we have designed a greatsword that separates into two katanas. This opens up a multitude of possibilities for different move sets and allows for greater creativity in character design and build diversity."
The developer has highlighted that these new additions are more than just replicas of previous content. The team is dedicated to bridging the gaps in tone, lore, and design between Bloodborne and Elden Ring, ensuring a seamless integration. Even when introducing fresh content, the Garden of Eyes mod pays careful attention to "preserve the original game's lore while expanding it in an unprecedented manner."
Fans can stay updated on the Garden of Eyes YouTube channel for regular progress reports and show their support for the mod's development on Patreon, gaining early access and the opportunity to contribute to design choices.
Elden Ring is available now on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S.