4. Explore the game world
Speaking of areas: Most Soulslikes, and particularly the games from FromSoftware, are not linear. At first glance, it may seem so, except for Elden Ring. However, there are often different paths that you can take. This way, new sub-areas or shortcuts open up to you.
A checkpoint that was miles away from a boss can suddenly be brought into acceptable proximity to the final opponent through a shortcut. The brilliant level design of Dark Souls 1, for example, repeatedly made me grin at the time. “What, am I here?” I thought.
Often you get stuck at a certain point – why not go in the other direction? Maybe you’ll find it easier? There, you might discover an item that helps you, such as the Scadubaum fragments in Elden Ring – or a new weapon. You should try it and see if you like it – you know, point 2.
5. Make the game as easy as you want
At this point, opinions diverge. Some veterans will say that a true Souls player fights their way to the final boss without NPC help or real online players. Also, the spirit ashes introduced in Elden Ring are considered by some as a tool for noobs.
Honestly: Forget all that and play as you like. At the end of the day, the game should be fun for you. You’re not playing it to meet anyone else’s expectations.
Especially at the beginning, it makes sense to take advantage of help. This way, you can progress faster if you get stuck somewhere. You can always start a new run later and do everything alone.
Besides, FromSoftware didn’t randomly integrate these aids into their game. And if it’s in the game, it can and should be used.
6. Have patience
This last tip may be the most important. Be patient. Believe me, I have died more in a Souls game because of my impatience than anything else.
This especially applies in boss fights. Wait for the enemies’ attacks before you strike. Yes, even if the boss only has a tiny bit of health left and will fall with the next hit. How often didn’t I want to wait, rushed in greedily, got hit myself, and died?
Too often.
Don’t let that happen to you. So don’t be greedy; wait for your attack window. And then strike.
These were six tips that should make it easier for you to get into the genre. Have you played a Soulslike before? If so, which one and what were your experiences? Feel free to write to us in the comments. If you’ve started Elden Ring and are looking for help and guides, check out MeinMMO and our overview.
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