Rating: ★★★★★

It’s a sprawling open-world masterpiece that’s a shoo-in for Game of the Year. It offers a mix of intense bosses and stunning environments that keeps you hooked. While it’s more forgiving than Sekiro.

Exploring its world feels like a real adventure, each corner promising something new and exciting, far more intuitive than anything in the Dark Souls series. The storylines are rich and varied, with no two endings or side quests feeling the same. Want to play as a sword-wielding wizard or a shield-toting tank? Go for it. The game’s role-playing flexibility has you covered.

The visuals and music are epic, turning every battle into a pulse-pounding experience amidst gothic splendor.

However, the game stumbles at the finish line. The ending doesn’t live up to the epic journey, feeling more like an afterthought than a climax. The parry system is another letdown—relying on a minuscule shield feels both clunky and unsatisfying.

Yet, for all its minor faults, Elden Ring is addictive. You’ll find yourself diving back in to try out new builds and chase different endings, even if it means a serious time investment. And yes, you can overpower your character through strategic grinding if replaying from scratch isn’t your thing. Definitely a must-play for the dedicated gamer.