Can you play Elden Ring without playing Dark Souls?

Elden Ring, the latest open-world epic from FromSoftware, has taken the gaming world by storm. Its vast, meticulously crafted world, challenging combat, and captivating lore have enticed players both new and old.

However, for those unfamiliar with the studio’s previous titles, particularly the notorious Dark Souls series, a question arises: Can one truly experience Elden Ring without having played its predecessors?

The answer, fortunately, is a resounding yes. While playing Dark Souls undoubtedly grants a certain familiarity with the core mechanics and overall philosophy of FromSoftware’s games, Elden Ring stands remarkably well on its own. Here’s why:

Firstly, Elden Ring offers a more accessible entry point compared to its predecessors. While still demanding, the combat system allows for greater flexibility through the use of spirit summons, magical abilities, and a wider variety of character builds. This caters to a broader range of players, including those who may find the unforgiving nature of older Souls games daunting.

Secondly, the open-world design of Elden Ring provides a sense of agency and freedom rarely seen in previous FromSoftware titles. Players can choose to tackle challenges in whichever order they see fit, explore hidden corners at their own pace, and even temporarily bypass overwhelming areas if needed. This freedom empowers newcomers to navigate the learning curve at their own comfort level.

Furthermore, the lore of Elden Ring, while connected to the broader universe established in Dark Souls, is presented in a way that is largely self-contained. Environmental storytelling, cryptic NPC dialogues, and item descriptions all contribute to building the world’s rich history, inviting players to piece together the narrative without prior knowledge.

Of course, those who have played Dark Souls will undoubtedly encounter references, callbacks, and thematic parallels throughout Elden Ring. These serve as a rewarding layer for veterans without hindering the overall experience for newcomers.

Ultimately, Elden Ring stands as a testament to FromSoftware’s ability to refine and evolve their signature formula while remaining true to their core design principles. Whether you’re a seasoned Soulsborne veteran or a complete newcomer, the Lands Between offer a compelling and rewarding adventure waiting to be experienced. So, grab your tarnished mantle and prepare to embark on your own unique journey in Elden Ring, even if you haven’t walked the path of Lordran or Lothric before.