FromSoftware. (2022). Elden Ring [Video game]. Bandai Namco Entertainment.

Elden Ring is a 2022 action role-playing game developed by FromSoftware and published by Bandai Namco Entertainment. Directed by Hidetaka Miyazaki, with worldbuilding contributions from author George R. R. Martin, the game is set in the expansive open world of the Lands Between. Players assume the role of a customizable character, known as a Tarnished, on a quest to repair the shattered Elden Ring and ascend as the new Elden Lord.

The game is presented from a third-person perspective, allowing players to explore six main areas within its open world. Traversal is facilitated by Torrent, a spectral steed that enables efficient movement across diverse terrains. In addition to the vast landscapes, players can delve into linear, hidden dungeons to discover valuable items and face formidable foes.

Combat in Elden Ring is multifaceted, offering a variety of weapons and magic spells to suit different playstyles. Players can engage enemies directly or employ stealth tactics to avoid detection and execute surprise attacks. The game incorporates a checkpoint system that enables fast travel and allows players to enhance their attributes using an in-game currency called runes.

Elden Ring also features an online multiplayer mode, permitting cooperative play for tackling challenging bosses and player-versus-player combat for competitive encounters.

Upon its release, Elden Ring received widespread acclaim for its open world design, intricate gameplay mechanics, and immersive setting. It has been cited as one of the greatest video games of all time. The game achieved significant commercial success, selling over 28 million copies worldwide. In June 2024, the downloadable content expansion "Shadow of the Erdtree" was released, further enriching the game's narrative and gameplay experience.