At Summer Game Fest 2021, Elden Ring finally got a second trailer and a release date. Though it’s only been two years since the game was revealed, FromSoftware fans have been on pins and needles waiting to see Miyazaki’s next project. Unsurprisingly, it incorporates the dark fantasy feel exemplified by Dark Souls but looks to evolve the formula into a more open and story-focused adventure.
What’s Elden Ring about and when is its release date?
What we saw in the trailer was a blend of mythology and a warning that the “Tarnished” are returning (and the player character may be one of these creatures). A tree that’s very reminiscent of Yggdrasil seems to be one of the focal points of the game’s world, though its purpose isn’t revealed here. The Tarnished seem to be seeking the Elden Ring to wield against unnatural forces.
Although it was first announced at E3 2019, development on Elden Ring began just after The Ringed City was released for Dark Souls 3 in 2017. In addition to director Hidetaka Miyazaki, George R. R. Martin of The Game of Thrones fame is assisting with composing the title’s story. Other than the game featuring the titular Elden Ring, not much was revealed about the story in the initial trailer. However, we can assume that with Miyazaki and Martin’s worldbuilding that the game will continue the dark fantasy tradition seen in both their works.
Miyasaki has stated that Elden Ring will be an evolution of the Souls experience. The game will feature larger, more open environments and horseback riding. Once again, players will be able to create a custom character, though how that character will fit into the world hasn’t been revealed yet.
We’ll finally get a chance to play Elden Ring on January 21, 2022 on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S.
