Elden Ring, a vast and intricate open-world RPG, presents players with a unique challenge: to explore and conquer a world brimming with secrets, formidable foes, and a deep, lore-rich narrative. As players embark on their journey through the Lands Between, the question arises: Should I Play Elden Ring With A Guide?
One of the most rewarding aspects of Elden Ring is the sense of discovery. The world is designed to be explored, with hidden pathways, secret dungeons, and unexpected encounters lurking around every corner. Using a guide can diminish this sense of wonder, potentially leading to a more streamlined but less organic experience. The sheer volume of content, coupled with the overwhelming number of markers on interactive maps, can be particularly daunting for new players.
Furthermore, playing without a guide can foster creativity and allow for a more personalized journey. Players are encouraged to experiment with different builds, weapons, and strategies, learning from their mistakes and adapting to the challenges they face. This organic growth as a player can be incredibly satisfying, as you overcome obstacles through your own ingenuity and resourcefulness.
However, venturing into the Lands Between completely blind can also be frustrating. Elden Ring is known for its difficulty, and without some basic knowledge, players may find themselves struggling unnecessarily. Therefore, it is crucial to understand a few things before starting.
Essential Tips for New Tarnished:
- Prioritize Vigor: Regardless of your chosen class, leveling Vigor is paramount. Offensive scaling is underwhelming, especially early on, due to the way weapon upgrade scaling works. Health offers significantly better scaling, and survivability is crucial. Aim for 60 Vigor. A comparable investment in an offensive stat might yield a 20-40% damage increase, while Vigor provides a roughly 500% increase in health. Being able to withstand hits and make mistakes is invaluable. Later in the game, you will have ample opportunity to improve offensive stats. Even a small investment of 15 faith can unlock highly valuable buffs.
- Follow the Guidance of Grace: The golden arrows on the map indicate the direction you need to travel to progress the main story. However, do not let frustration take over if you get stuck. Elden Ring is designed to be explored. If you encounter a roadblock, consider venturing to other areas, leveling up, and acquiring better equipment before returning.
Finding the Right Balance
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to use a guide is a personal one. There’s no right or wrong way to play Elden Ring. However, consider adopting a balanced approach. Start by exploring the world on your own, embracing the sense of discovery and experimentation. When you encounter difficulties, consider consulting a guide for specific tips or information, rather than relying on it constantly. This approach allows you to experience the best of both worlds: the satisfaction of independent exploration and the guidance necessary to overcome challenges. Embrace the journey, Tarnished, and forge your own legend in the Lands Between.
