Hope the text hints in Shadow of the Erdtree aren't a bad sign

Elden Ring: Shadow of Edtree It continues the harsh gameplay and ambiguous storytelling that the base game started with, and implements a few key changes while staying true to its most important strengths. Edtree's Shadow shine the light Elden Ring's Dark Tale also expands the complex story with new content, but the delivery style is decidedly different.

FromSoftware's games are known for their dull and impersonal storytelling style. Edtree's ShadowThe relatively simple main quest design stands out. As players progress through the expansion's central narrative, they encounter a series of notes left behind by Miquella or his followers, guiding them in the right direction. Make no mistake. You shouldn't do that. Edtree's Shadow It's not “easy” in any way and detracts from the sense of mystery that is so important to FromSoftware's RPGs, but it's a noticeable change from the disconnected and solitary storytelling of its predecessor. It's actually somewhat informative. Edtree's ShadowBut this may not be a trend that FromSoftware needs to double down on.

FromSoftware should refrain from text hints moving forward.

It shouldn't go beyond Shadow of the Erdtree's more explicit storytelling.

Although several Edtree's Shadow's side quests maintain FromSoftware's usual approach to narrative structure and delivery, and their handholding from the main quest line is hard to ignore. In some ways, this is a big change from other FromSoftware stories, sacrificing a bit of mystery on the altar of playability and engagement. That said, obfuscation and mystery have come to define FromSoftware's stories, but these strengths can sometimes come at the expense of pacing and narrative clarity, making the plot difficult for some to enjoy. Edtree's Shadow Trying to achieve a better balance.

This is admirable, and provides a good contrast to the following. Edtree's Shadow's painful combat difficulty, but it's not hard to see how a similar philosophy could undermine future FromSoftware games. for example, Bloodborne There was going to be a sequel (God willing), and if it included notes, text logs, or other harrowing exposition pointing players in the right direction, it would undercut the emphasis on cosmic horror. It will reduce the chances of players getting lost, but reducing or eliminating the risk of confusion will damage the way the game has a following. Bloodborne It's so iconic and inimitable.

A less simple narrative structure is not about making things “more difficult,” but about maintaining a certain tone and degree of interpretability.

FromSoftware may not want to completely abandon the shadow of Erdtree's storytelling methods.

The more hand-holding drawbacks mentioned above are accounted for under the assumption that FromSoftware will take the following narrative structure. Sort There will be more to come in future entries, but as it stands, the DLC's compromises work pretty well. In fact, if implemented correctly, a deft touch and gentle guidance can actually elevate other FromSoftware games.

FromSoftware's games often feature amazing world-building and lore, but they usually fall short in the story department, at least in the traditional sense. The game has many characters, organizations, and civilizations with fascinating and brilliantly conceived backstories, but the same cannot be said for its emotionally moving, suspenseful, and consistently engaging narrative. Often, much of FromSoftware's story takes place off-screen or in the past, with players taking on roles more similar to archaeologists or researchers than active participants.

So FromSoftware might want to be conservative. sauté– Just like storytelling methods, these methods don't necessarily have to be put on hold. There is an advantage for FromSoftware in utilizing more linear narrative techniques, as long as the essence of mystery is maintained so that the developers do not lose sight of their identity.