Beginner’s Guide to Elden Ring: Basics and Features

Elden Ring is an expansive action RPG that combines the intricate world-building and challenging gameplay FromSoftware is known for, with new elements that make it both fascinating and formidable for new players. Here’s a guide to the basics and features of Elden Ring, including its gameplay style, backstory, and how to start by choosing the right character class.

Gameplay Style

Elden Ring offers a gameplay experience that blends open-world exploration with intense combat and strategic planning. It introduces the concept of an open field, which includes vast landscapes filled with dungeons, catacombs, and castles, each presenting unique challenges and enemies. The game encourages exploration, allowing players to discover the world at their own pace, with minimal guidance, promoting a sense of mystery and discovery​.

Elden Ring’s Backstory

The narrative of Elden Ring is centered around the Lands Between, blessed by the presence of the Elden Ring and the Erdtree, symbolizing its divine nature. The story unfolds in a world shattered by a conflict over the shattered pieces of the Elden Ring. As a player, you are a Tarnished, called back to the Lands Between to collect the Great Runes, restore the Elden Ring, and become the Elden Lord​. This rich backstory is not just lore, but deeply integrated into the gameplay, influencing locations, characters, and conflicts you encounter.

Creating a Character and Choosing a Class

When you begin your adventure in Elden Ring, you will encounter a robust character creation system that allows for a high degree of customization. This includes a wide array of cosmetic choices such as age, body type, physique, voice, facial features, hairstyles, tattoos, and even eyepatches. None of these cosmetic decisions will impact gameplay directly; they are all about defining the visual aspect of your character. Importantly, Elden Ring also allows you to completely alter your character’s appearance later in the game at no cost, providing flexibility to change your character’s looks as you progress.

Choosing Your Class

The selection of your character’s starting class is pivotal as it sets the initial direction for your gameplay style, although it does not lock you into a specific path for the entirety of the game. Each class has unique strengths and starting equipment that cater to different styles of play, whether you prefer melee combat, magic use, or a mix of abilities. Here’s a brief overview of the classes:

• Vagabond: Known for high health and solid armor, great for those who want to engage in direct combat.
• Warrior: Excels in dexterity and stamina, perfect for players who favor agility and technical combat skills.
• Hero: Features high strength and is armed with a battleaxe, ideal for players who like to deal heavy damage.
• Bandit: Specializes in stealth and ranged attacks, making it a good choice for those who prefer precision and strategy.
• Astrologer: Focuses on intelligence and magic, suited for players who want to use spells and ranged attacks.
• Prophet: Offers abilities in healing and magic, excellent for support roles and magic users.
• Samurai: A versatile fighter with high dexterity, proficient with both katanas and longbows.
• Prisoner: Combines intelligence and dexterity, perfect for those who like a mix of magic and melee combat.
• Confessor: Balances melee combat and magical incantations, good for players who want a versatile playstyle.
• Wretch: Starts with very basic gear and attributes but offers complete freedom to develop your character in any direction.

Each class not only influences the initial gameplay experience but also affects how you might strategize and progress in the world of Elden Ring. Choosing a class is about finding the right balance between your preferred play style and the challenges you wish to undertake.

Conclusion

Elden Ring invites players into a beautifully complex world where strategy, skill, and exploration intertwine to create a unique gaming experience. Whether battling through daunting foes or unraveling the mysteries of the Lands Between, the journey in Elden Ring is as rewarding as it is challenging. As you begin your adventure, take time to explore thoroughly, experiment with different strategies, and immerse yourself in the lore of the world. The path to becoming the Elden Lord is fraught with peril, but with patience and perseverance, it is an attainable and profoundly satisfying goal.