Is Elden Ring Worth Buying as an RPG?

Whether the Elden Ring is worth buying as an RPG is a question that naturally arises, given its prominent place among From Software's iconic titles. To answer succinctly, my response is an unambiguous yes. My affinity for From Software games, dating back to Dark Souls, has always propelled me to appreciate these games, and Elden Ring is no exception. The appeal of these games, especially in the RPG genre, is manifold.

The RPG Aspect of Elden Ring

For me, the RPG aspect of Elden Ring is a significant draw. Earlier, the term RPG was more defined, but with the evolution of the genre, many games now incorporate RPG mechanics. Let's delve into the various elements that make Elden Ring a compelling RPG experience, focusing on game mechanics, storytelling, and role-playability.

Game Mechanics

On a fundamental level, Elden Ring is a true RPG in terms of game mechanics. Characters can be leveled up, their tools upgraded, and resources allocated. This system is notably flexible, with a degree of open-endedness. The path of progression is largely self-directed, as evidenced by the flexibility of your starting class; you can begin as an astrologermage and evolve into a brute fighter, entirely depending on your in-game actions and choices. The game provides numerous opportunities for character customization and development, reflecting a broader player agency.

In terms of gameplay, Elden Ring offers both action and RPG elements. During your journey, you will face challenges that can be overcome through action-based combat or through enhancing your character's attributes and equipment. When encountering a formidable enemy, you can opt to refine your fighting skills by learning patterns, timing dodges, and mastering parries. Alternatively, you can opt to level up your character, explore loot, and find new items that may provide a strategic advantage. This dual approach enriches the experience, catering to a wide range of player preferences.

Storytelling

The storytelling in Elden Ring is indeed noteworthy, yet it operates on a different plane compared to linear or detailed narratives. The game's storytelling is more subtle and open-ended, with much of the narrative left to the player's imagination. The game introduces a vast, interconnected world that requires exploration, discovery, and interpretation. Unlike some RPGs, where the story is tightly woven into every aspect of gameplay, Elden Ring allows for a more optional engagement with the narrative. NPCs and questlines can be missed, but the game's world is built to be pieced together across multiple playthroughs.

While some players find the minimalistic storytelling of Dark Souls appealing, Elden Ring takes this into a slightly more narrative space. However, the story still retains a sense of mystery and depth, encouraging players to piece together the fragments of lore on their own. This open-ended storytelling approach not only adds to the replayability of the game but also allows for a more personal and customized gaming experience. The world feels alive, with NPCs and events reacting to your choices in subtle ways, which enhances the sense of immersion and role-playability.

Role-Playability

Elden Ring excels in creating a rich, immersive world where players have the freedom to role-play. The game's online features further enhance this experience by allowing players to immerse themselves in various character roles. Whether you choose to play the iconic characters from lore or adopt a completely unique persona, the game's design facilitates this kind of explorative and exploratory play. The vast, open world, filled with countless secrets, treasures, and mysteries, invites players to explore and discover at their own pace.

The scale and grandeur of the game's world are truly impressive, and exploring it is a rewarding experience. Whether you're traversing vast landscapes, discovering hidden castles, or uncovering the aftermath of ancient wars, the world of Elden Ring is rich with detail and history. The joy of discovery and the thrill of uncovering new stories are key components of the RPG experience in Elden Ring. The game's world feels lived in, encouraging players to engage deeply with its lore and history.

In conclusion, Elden Ring is indeed worth buying as an RPG. Whether you are a hardcore From Software fan, a fan of the RPG genre, or simply someone looking for an immersive and rewarding gaming experience, Elden Ring offers a unique blend of action and role-playing elements that cater to a wide range of player preferences. From its flexible mechanics and rich world to its open-ended storytelling and role-playability, Elden Ring is a standout title in the RPG genre, making it a must-have for avid players and newcomers alike.