In almost every open-world game, there is a map feature that provides an overview of the respective game world. In Elden Ring, the map also plays a very important role. All information about it can be found here in our map guide.
Anyone who plays open-world games regularly knows the typical maps that these titles provide to help navigate the world.
Here you have all sorts of forms, from rough models like in Cyberpunk 2077, detailed interactive maps like in Skyrim, to real maps like in GTA Online.
While most maps show many, if not all, important points in the game world beforehand, the map in Elden Ring is almost empty at the beginning. How you gradually reveal it, how to use it, and why you should do so can be learned here.
Update, April 7: We have updated the article and linked another interactive map.
Elden Ring – Uncovering the Map and Discovering the Lands Between
At the start of the game, the map of Elden Ring looks like this:
Initially, you haven’t seen anything of the game world, the Lands Between. However, you will find map fragments in the game to gradually reveal all areas and make visible what awaits you in which regions.
How can I unlock additional sections? First, you should just get started and explore the game world. There are several factors that will guide you along the way.
- For example, when you rest at Sites of Grace, you will see a golden aura floating in a certain direction.
- This roughly indicates the direction you need to go for the next story objective.
- Traveling in the game world won’t reveal the map, but you can at least make a “cloud cover” disappear, under which faintly drawn paths will emerge.
You should take a closer look at these paths because you will keep finding these pillars:
How do I find these pillars? This guide will not list the exact locations, but we will give you some tips that will help you find the map pieces yourself.
- The pillars are usually not far from areas where the region can be accessed.
- Normally, when exploring and following visible paths, you will come close to such a pillar sooner or later.
- So keep an eye on your map while exploring a new area. Once you discover roads, you can assume they will lead you to a map.
However, in later areas, it might become more difficult to reach the map fragments. However, it’s worth it because the map is a very valuable tool in Elden Ring. Not only for navigation but also for finding interesting places and important things.
The Map of Elden Ring and Its Functions
What is the map actually for? Unlike other open-world games, even an uncovered map is not a universal tool.
Unlike in games like Assassin’s Creed Odyssey or The Witcher 3, the map isn’t filled with question marks. The game world is packed with optional dungeons, bosses, interesting places, and loot, but you have to discover them yourself first.
The map only shows you a drawn picture of the surface. Dungeons located underground are usually not visible on the map.
Thus, it’s up to you to study the map and consider, based on the geographical features, where a secret might lie. However, the map also provides sufficient means for this.
These are the map’s functions:
- You can make manual markings at specific points using various symbols that indicate something.
- This can be, for example, a skull that marks an optional boss you want to return to at a later time.
- You can also plan routes using number markings from 1 to 5 that lead you to the next objective.
How do I find interesting places? The combination of the tools listed above and the drawn map allows you to figure out where the next dungeon might be based on the landscape and buildings.
Some buildings also have recurring architectural structures, which allow you to gauge what encounter or type of reward may await you. Simple ruins are usually inconspicuous but often hide a valuable treasure.
They are very easy to spot on the map. The same applies to many other things.
Interactive Map for the 6 Huge Areas of Elden Ring
How big is the game world of Elden Ring? The expanse of the Lands Between, with its vast open areas, elaborate legacy dungeons, and optional locations, is gigantic.
Thus, it is difficult to say how large it actually is.
- There are 6 large areas, each with a main boss, which are also the target of the main story.
- In addition, there are dozens of caves, ruins, fortresses, and other places that you can visit regardless.
- Furthermore, there are also some secret and optional areas that expand it even more.
The website mapgenie.io specializes in maps for game worlds and has published a work-in-progress map for Elden Ring. It can give you more detailed insights into the various places in the world:
Here you can see the full map. If you prefer to be surprised, avoid this box.
Alternatively, there is also the interactive map from Elden Ring-Wiki Fextralife.com.
For those who absolutely have no issues with spoilers, you can take a closer look at this video to see the scale of the surface world:
Alternatively, you can also almost forgo the map entirely and explore everything on your own. This might be interesting for hardcore players.
However, the vast majority will likely appreciate the map features.
It can help you discover useful farming routes like this one: You can easily farm runes in Elden Ring by sparing a half-dead giant dragon
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