Elden Ring: What Made It Special

Written By Ryan Hayden

Introduction

When Elden Ring launched in 2022, it did not just continue the legacy of FromSoftware’s Soulsborne games; it redefined what an open-world RPG could be. Developed under Hidetaka Miyazaki with lore contributions from George R. R. Martin, the game captivated millions worldwide (Bandai Namco Entertainment, 2022). However, what exactly made Elden Ring stand out in a crowded genre?

Rewarding Difficulty

FromSoftware is known for its challenging design, but Elden Ring shifted the formula from punishingly hard to rewardingly hard. Instead of forcing players down a single path, the game offered multiple ways to progress. Stuck on a boss? Players could avoid that fight, explore elsewhere, train, and level up before returning stronger. This flexibility made the difficulty feel fair, empowering players to overcome obstacles without frustration (Metacritic, 2025).

Expansive Open World

The Lands Between was more than just a backdrop; it was a living, breathing world. Forests, plains, ruins, and castles were meticulously crafted, encouraging exploration at every turn. Unlike many modern RPGs cluttered with map icons, Elden Ring trusted players to follow curiosity. Hidden treasures, lore fragments, and optional bosses rewarded those who strayed off the beaten path (Bandai Namco Entertainment, 2022).

Deep Lore and Storytelling

The collaboration between Miyazaki and George R. R. Martin added layers of mystery and myth. Lore was not spoon-fed; it was discovered through exploration, item descriptions, and environmental storytelling. The story remains deliberately cryptic, requiring players to search for clues and piece together meaning (OpenCritic, 2024).

Freedom of Playstyles

Customization was another pillar of Elden Ring’s success. Players could tailor builds to suit their preferences, melee, ranged, stealth, or magic, and experiment with countless weapons, incantations, and strategies. This freedom ensured that no two journeys through the Lands Between were alike (Metacritic, 2025).

Community and Connectivity

Multiplayer elements are seamlessly integrated into the single-player experience. Summoning allies, invading other worlds, or leaving messages created a sense of shared struggle and camaraderie. Streamers like LilAggy (YouTube, 2025), Bushy (YouTube, 2025), and star0chris (YouTube, 2025) continue to showcase the game daily, both in vanilla and modded form, keeping the community vibrant years after release.

On a personal note, I have played Elden Ring on both PC and PS5, solo and with friends. Solo runs emphasize patience and discovery, while co‑op adds camaraderie and shared triumphs. This duality is part of what makes the game endlessly replayable.

DLC and Longevity

The game’s longevity is reinforced by its expansion. DLC has added new items, lore, and bosses, deepening the mystery of the Lands Between and giving players fresh challenges (Bandai Namco Entertainment, 2025). Combined with the thriving modding scene, ongoing streaming presence, and cross-platform play, Elden Ring remains a cultural touchstone well beyond its initial launch.

Conclusion

Elden Ring was special because it combined freedom, challenge, and discovery in a way few games had before. It respected player agency, rewarded curiosity, and delivered a world that felt both daunting and inviting. By making difficulty accessible, weaving in mythic storytelling, and offering endless playstyles, Elden Ring did not just succeed; it set a new standard for the RPG genre.

In the end, it was not just about surviving the Lands Between. It was about finding your own path, whether solo, with allies, on PC, or on PS5, and that journey continues, with streamers, mods, and DLC keeping the fire alive.

References

Ryan Hayden
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