When an established series takes a creative risk, you can generally expect some scepticism, perhaps even outright dismay. And the decision to eschew the linear-but-branching structure of FromSoftware’s recent hits in favour of an open world is indeed a risk; the tight direction of the player’s experience that such a structure affords, is a big reason those games work so well. But I don’t recall much gnashing of teeth when it was announced.
Perhaps that’s because George R.R. Martin’s involvement stole a lot of the oxygen, but I’m also sure From’s track record has something to do with it. The studio has dropped more bangers than Wile E. Coyote since Demon’s Souls in 2009; does anyone seriously doubt that it can pull this off?
After three days with Elden Ring’s closed technical test – available to selected applicants this coming weekend – I’m certain the believers will be vindicated. In fact, I’m not sure I’ve ever been more impressed by a game demo.
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