Elden Ring 2: How FromSoftware Can Improve on the Original
Although 'Elden Ring' features a vast open world, it could definitely use some of the charm and unforgettable environments found in Dark Souls 2's Drangleic.
Dark Souls 2 had a playful charm that Elden Ring 2 shouldn’t shy away from.
Elden Ring took the gaming world by storm, becoming a monumental pillar of open-world fantasy. Its success has left fans eagerly anticipating a sequel or another epic open-world Soulslike game from FromSoftware. While the studio has never been swayed by what’s popular, there are still many ways they can iterate and improve on the formula in a future game.
Dark Souls 2’s Diverse Locations Should Be a Lesson Learned for Elden Ring 2
Dark Souls 2, despite being divisive among fans, showcased unique and diverse settings and enemies. Interestingly, it was the only FromSoftware Soulslike game that Miyazaki wasn’t involved in directing. Dark Souls 2 swung for the fences, with out-there locations and a wide range of foes that made the game stand out.
Elden Ring, on the other hand, is visually stunning and offers vast landscapes to explore. However, its individual regions lack the memorability and distinctiveness seen in previous FromSoftware games. While the game is linear and niche in its own way, it could learn from the artistic distinctiveness of the Dark Souls franchise and the unique world-building of Bloodborne.
Elden Ring has plenty of visually distinct areas based on color schemes and biomes. But aside from a few standout regions like Caelid, the Ainsel and Siofra Rivers, Nokstella, and the Academy of Raya Lucaria, much of the game blends into obscurity. Spending so much time traveling on horseback between interconnected regions can make them feel less impactful. Areas like Mt. Gelmir or the Consecrated Snowfield seem to mimic locations from Dark Souls 2, but with less charm and notoriety.
In Dark Souls 2, the lack of connectivity between regions actually allowed for diverse settings and aesthetics within Drangleic. Players could explore the spider-infested Brightstone Cove Tseldora or venture into No-man’s Wharf, a port town filled with treasure and undead pirates. The game also represented popular fantasy depictions, with the Doors of Pharros’ Gyrm reminiscent of dwarven craftsmen.
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If Elden Ring 2 can create more individualistic and identifiable regions, regardless of their interconnectedness, it will make the player’s journey more engaging and memorable. Taking inspiration from Dark Souls 2 and incorporating diverse locations and iconography will help the sequel stand out and leave a lasting impression.
Reader’s Concerns Answered (Q&A)
Q: Will there be an Elden Ring sequel?
A: While a direct sequel hasn’t been confirmed, FromSoftware’s success with Elden Ring makes it highly likely that they will create another open-world Soulslike game of a similar scale.
Q: What other improvements can FromSoftware make in future games?
A: FromSoftware can continue to refine and improve on their formula by incorporating quality-of-life features and learning from the strengths of their previous games. They can also focus on creating more distinct and memorable locations in their open worlds.
Q: Are there any plans for a PC port or remakes of Bloodborne?
A: FromSoftware has not announced any plans for a PC port or remakes of Bloodborne. The studio tends to prioritize new projects rather than revisiting older ones.
Q: Can Elden Ring 2 surpass the success of the original?
A: It’s difficult to predict the success of a game, but if FromSoftware can learn from player feedback and incorporate improvements based on the strengths of their previous games, Elden Ring 2 has the potential to surpass its predecessor.
Additional Resources
Here are some additional resources related to Elden Ring and FromSoftware’s games:
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Share Your Thoughts
What are your thoughts on the potential improvements for Elden Ring 2? Do you agree that Dark Souls 2’s diverse locations can serve as a lesson for the sequel? Share your opinions in the comments below and let’s discuss!
Don’t forget to share this article with your fellow gamers on social media and stay tuned for more updates on Elden Ring 2 and other exciting games! 🎮✨😃
