Chapter 1: Returning to Elden Ring

After almost two months since my first entry in this series, I’m back to share more about my experience with Elden Ring. During this time, I've found the ray tracing update's performance to be less than satisfactory. Consequently, I opted to switch my gaming to the Xbox Series S rather than the PS5. While I typically prioritize frame rates, I felt compelled to explore the new graphics settings that were available.

Elden Ring has never excelled in performance, and since the game relies heavily on precise timing with controller inputs, a higher frame rate significantly enhances the gameplay experience. Surprisingly, the Xbox Series S serves as a decent option, provided you’re willing to sacrifice some graphical fidelity.

Here are my reflections, presented in my unique “notes” style, as I embarked on a fresh journey through Limgrave, tackling its extensive content, including the notorious first boss, Margit the Fell Omen. I wanted this series to emulate a written podcast format. With traditional game reviews seeing dwindling interest, I’ve opted for this more spontaneous approach.

Onward!

Chapter 2: The Xbox Series S: A Hidden Gem

Throughout the early part of this year, I had been documenting my experiences with the Xbox Series S, testing its ability to handle demanding titles. Although I halted those updates due to lack of readership, I can confidently say that Elden Ring performs admirably on this budget console.

Players can choose between Performance and Quality modes, both of which surprisingly feature an unlocked frame rate. The Performance mode sacrifices some resolution but aims for a more stable 60 frames per second, whereas Quality mode hovers just above 30 frames, dipping occasionally. With a VRR display, I found the experience to be quite enjoyable, especially compared to the frustrating ray tracing update on other platforms.

The game defaults to Performance mode, providing an excellent core Elden Ring experience with visuals that remain appealing and combat that feels fluid even amidst chaotic encounters. Given the Series S's affordability and specifications, it’s a commendable option for players looking to dive into this title.

Chapter 3: Meet Poilet

In my previous playthrough, I experimented with halberds. This time, inspired perhaps by a recent ten-hour stint with Star Wars Jedi: Survivor, I embraced the basic warrior class, determined to utilize blocking and Guard Counters more effectively. I created a fierce axe-wielding character named Poilet and ventured forth into the Lands Between.

Guard Counters, a new addition to Elden Ring, act as a secondary parry system. After a successful block, players have a brief window to deliver a powerful counterattack that consumes stamina but inflicts significant damage. Utilizing a Great Shield enhances this mechanic, allowing for a wider counter window by absorbing more enemy strikes.

This system is incredibly satisfying. Previously, I had neglected it in favor of standard dodge rolls and occasional parries from other Souls games, a choice I now see as a mistake. While less effective in large-scale battles, it proves devastating against single foes.

Eventually, I upgraded Poilet’s initial gear for heavier armor, a great shield, and a hefty greatsword. Following the advice found in various build guides and lore videos, I invested more points into vigor and endurance than usual, and I’m thoroughly enjoying the gameplay.

Chapter 4: The Challenge of Margit

I made sure to obtain Margit’s shackle for this playthrough, a process that involves navigating an optional dungeon and sparing a recurring character during the final boss fight before returning to offer them a substantial sum of runes.

The shackle must be equipped manually, a detail I overlooked during my initial attempt against Margit. I did manage to almost defeat him, ultimately conquering him on my third try, surprised at the number of attempts despite my familiarity with the game.

It appears I was both out of practice and that Margit remains a formidable adversary. His oddly timed attacks are designed to teach patience, as many of his strikes are easier to evade than to block or parry, especially given the cramped and uneven arena.

The Margit encounter is cleverly designed, yet it serves as a significant hurdle for newer players. Fortunately, there is an NPC who can assist, and utilizing this character alongside creature summoning is crucial. Don’t be disheartened if you struggle against Margit; even seasoned players can find him challenging.

Elden Ring - Walkthrough Part 2: Limgrave Starting Loop

This video showcases gameplay strategies for navigating Limgrave and defeating early bosses, including Margit.

Chapter 5: Immersive Audio Experience

I've been enjoying the game with Dolby Atmos enabled and high-quality headphones, and the spatial audio design is impressive. While some critics have noted that Elden Ring reuses sound effects from previous Souls titles, the audio landscape and environmental cues are truly remarkable.

After defeating Margit, his voice echoes, taunting you about your fate, seamlessly blending with the dramatic wind sounds surrounding his plateau. The dungeons also exhibit a captivating sense of space, utilizing silence and echoing creature sounds to create a tense atmosphere.

Chapter 6: Reflecting on Zelda Inspirations

Recently, I joined countless others in purchasing Tears of the Kingdom. Playing it for several hours prompted me to revisit Breath of the Wild, and experiencing both of these Zelda titles led me back to thoughts of Elden Ring.

If you enjoyed either of those recent Zelda games, you will find Elden Ring to be right in your gaming sweet spot. I believe its existence is largely thanks to the clear influence of Breath of the Wild on its world design and balance of freedom versus progression.

Both new Zelda titles and Elden Ring reward exploration, offering exciting discoveries and diverse environments to traverse. While Zelda may not be as punishing as a Souls game, its stamina mechanics and weapon degradation create a comparable level of challenge, even if Elden Ring edges higher in difficulty.

I hope these games continue to inspire future open-world design. They feel more like treasure chests waiting to be opened rather than just a collection of someone else's travel photos with “cool” spots marked on a map.

Chapter 7: Final Musings

I’ve been sidetracked from my "definitive" Elden Ring playthrough by a myriad of other games and projects. Perhaps this will finally be the time I complete it, I say with a hint of optimism!

One of the standout features of Elden Ring's design is that the journey is filled with rewarding experiences at every turn, not just during key plot moments. The adventure is captivating throughout, and I often find myself driven by curiosity about what lies beyond the next door rather than just the endgame.

My Elden Ring Experience [Part Two]

In this video, I share my personal gameplay journey and insights while exploring Elden Ring, highlighting my strategies and encounters.