Elden Ring: Reinventing Open-World Game Tutorials
FromSoftware’s Elden Ring has been making waves in the gaming community, not only for its challenging gameplay but also for its unique approach to tutorials in open-world games. The ability to skip the tutorial and jump right into the action is a refreshing change from the norm, where many games force players through lengthy introductory sequences before they can truly explore.
Breaking the Mold
In a world where open-world games often prioritize hand-holding over player freedom, Elden Ring stands out by allowing experienced gamers to bypass the tutorial and get straight to the heart of the game. This design choice recognizes that many players are already familiar with basic gaming mechanics and don’t need to be guided by the hand through each step.
A Nod to Classic Games
The concept of Elden Ring’s tutorial being optional harkens back to the old-school days of gaming when instruction manuals were the norm. Players were expected to figure things out on their own, and Elden Ring embodies this spirit by letting players dive in headfirst and learn through trial and error.
Games like Skyrim and GTA V have been criticized for their lengthy tutorial sequences, which can be a barrier to entry for returning players. By contrast, Elden Ring’s approach streamlines the experience for veterans while still providing essential information for newcomers who choose to go down the tutorial hole.
In a gaming landscape where tutorials have become synonymous with lengthy hand-holding sequences, Elden Ring’s refreshing take on player agency and trust in the player’s ability to learn through gameplay is a step in the right direction for the future of open-world gaming.
So, here’s to Elden Ring for embracing this bold design choice and setting a new standard for open-world games. Let’s hope more developers take note and follow suit, allowing players the freedom to explore and experience the game on their terms right from the start.🎮
