The sprawling landscapes of Elden Ring beckon players with the promise of adventure, lore, and formidable challenges. As one of the most anticipated releases developed by FromSoftware, renowned for their challenging gameplay mechanics and rich storytelling, the question on everyone’s mind is: How long is Elden Ring? This query isn’t as straightforward as it may seem, as the game’s length can vary significantly based on a range of factors including playstyle, exploration habits, and the desire to delve into every nook and cranny of the fantastical world. In this article, we will explore the various dimensions of time commitment in Elden Ring, from main story completion to total exploration and beyond.
Understanding the Game’s Structure
Before we dive deeper into how long it will take to complete Elden Ring, it is essential to understand the game’s structure and design. Like other titles from FromSoftware, such as Dark Souls and Bloodborne, Elden Ring is an open-world action role-playing game (ARPG) that boasts:
- A vast open world featuring diverse environments and hidden areas.
- Multi-layered stories woven through an intricate narrative landscape.
- Challenging combat with various enemies, including bosses that test players’ skills.
These elements collectively contribute to the game’s length, as players can choose different paths, engage in side quests, or explore optional content, all of which can extend their playtime significantly.
Main Story Completion Time
If you’re focused solely on completing the main story of Elden Ring, you can expect to invest approximately 30 to 35 hours. This estimate assumes that you are mostly following the main quests without getting sidetracked by optional content or exploration. However, it is essential to note that this time frame can vary based on several factors:
Player Skill Level
Players who are familiar with FromSoftware’s mechanics may find themselves progressing more swiftly than newcomers. The combat system in Elden Ring can be incredibly punishing, leading to extended playtime as players learn the ropes, face formidable foes, and adapt their strategies.
Character Build
The choice of character build significantly impacts the time required for completion. For instance, players who select a magic build may find certain areas or bosses easier, leading to a quicker journey through the story. In contrast, melee builds can involve more strategic thinking and careful planning, as players learn enemy patterns and vulnerabilities.
Story Replays and Choices
The narrative richness of Elden Ring encourages multiple playthroughs. Players may wish to explore different story arcs or endings, each requiring additional playtime. Moreover, players can make choices that alter their paths, creating unique experiences with each run.
Side Quests and Exploration
Aside from the main storyline, Elden Ring is packed with side quests and rich lore that add extensive gameplay hours. Completing side quests can take anywhere from 10 to 20 additional hours, depending on how deeply players dive into the world’s narrative and characters.
Exploration of the Open World
Elden Ring features an expansive world filled with secrets, treasures, and hidden areas. Players who choose to explore every inch of the game can find themselves investing 50 hours or more into their journey. The exploration factor adds immense replayability to the experience.
Secrets and Collectibles
In addition to key items and upgrades, Elden Ring contains numerous collectibles and secrets that enrich the lore. Engaging with these elements not only prolongs gameplay but also deepens the player’s connection to the story and world.
Endgame Content
For players looking to extend their enjoyment of Elden Ring even further, there is a robust endgame. This content includes:
- Challenge Dungeons: Special areas designed for advanced players.
- New Game Plus (NG+): A mode that allows players to replay the game with heightened difficulty and all previously acquired items.
Engaging with this endgame content can add dozens of hours of gameplay, especially for completionists.
Community and Multiplayer Interactions
With Elden Ring’s multiplayer features, players can engage with others, which can also influence playtime. Forming parties, tackling harder challenges together, or assisting others can add significant hours to one’s experience.
Comparing Elden Ring to Other Titles
Understanding how Elden Ring’s length compares to other games can provide further context for players.
| Game Title | Main Story Completion Time | Completionist Time |
|---|---|---|
| Dark Souls III | 30-35 hours | 40-100 hours |
| Bloodborne | 30-40 hours | 50-150 hours |
| The Witcher 3 | 50-70 hours | 100-200 hours |
| Elden Ring | 30-35 hours | 50+ hours |
As seen in the table, while the main story length of Elden Ring is comparable to other FromSoftware titles, its potential for prolonged gameplay, particularly for completionists, can rival other open-world RPGs.
Strategies to Manage Playtime
For players looking to experience the rich narrative without becoming overwhelmed, here are a few strategies to manage playtime effectively:
Set Personal Goals
Before diving into Elden Ring, consider setting personal goals. Do you want to experience the main story? Aim for all collectibles? Having a clear target can help streamline your gameplay experience.
Balance Exploration and Progression
Finding a balance between exploration and main quest progression is crucial. Spend your initial playtime focusing on the story and build up your character. Once you are comfortable, begin exploring hidden areas for upgrades and lore.
Final Thoughts: How Long is Your Elden Ring Experience?
Ultimately, the length of time it takes to complete Elden Ring is subject to individual preferences and playstyles. While you can finish the main story in 30 to 35 hours, those looking to uncover every secret, compete in multiplayer, or experience all lore aspects will likely find themselves putting in 50 or more hours.
The immersive world, compelling lore, and challenging gameplay mechanics will keep players engaged for many hours, encouraging repeat playthroughs and exploration. As the Elden Ring universe continues to evolve through updates and community engagement, players can look forward to expanding their adventures even further.
Whether you’re racing through the story or savoring every interaction and exploration, your journey through Elden Ring will undoubtedly be one that captivates the imagination and tests your skills to their limits. So grab your gear, summon your courage, and step into the Lands Between—the adventure awaits!
How long does it take to complete Elden Ring?
Elden Ring typically takes players about 30 to 50 hours to complete the main storyline. This duration can greatly vary based on individual play styles and preferences. Some players rush through the main quests, while others might take their time exploring the vast world and uncovering its secrets.
For those who engage in side quests, exploration, and character building, the playtime can extend significantly. Completing all objectives, collecting items, and defeating optional bosses can lead to a playtime ranging from 80 to over 100 hours. Therefore, the overall completion time is largely dependent on how deeply players wish to dive into the game’s content.
What factors influence how long it takes to finish Elden Ring?
Several factors can influence the time it takes to complete Elden Ring, including player experience with similar games, play style, and the choice of character class. Experienced players familiar with the Soulsborne games may navigate the challenges of Elden Ring more efficiently, while newcomers might take additional time to adapt to the game’s mechanics and difficulty.
Additionally, the extent of exploration can also impact playtime. Elden Ring offers a richly detailed world teeming with lore, hidden treasures, and optional quests. Players who take the time to explore every nook and cranny will obviously spend more hours in the game compared to those who focus solely on the main storyline.
Is Elden Ring a long game compared to other RPGs?
Elden Ring is considered a lengthy game, especially when compared to traditional RPGs. While some RPGs might offer a straightforward experience with around 20-30 hours of playtime to complete the main storyline, Elden Ring expands significantly on this format by providing an open world filled with complexity and variety.
The game’s expansive world encourages exploration and discovery, which can lead to much longer playtimes. Depending on how many side quests and optional battles players engage with, Elden Ring can rival or exceed other RPGs, often becoming a more time-consuming endeavor due to its engrossing gameplay and multitude of activities.
Are there options for speeding up the gameplay in Elden Ring?
While Elden Ring does not specifically offer options to speed up gameplay in terms of reducing the time needed to complete quests, players can optimize their experience through efficient exploration. Learning the game mechanics and understanding enemy patterns can significantly reduce the time spent on challenging encounters.
Additionally, focusing on leveling up your character and upgrading gear can help players progress more quickly through tougher sections. By honing skills and preparing adequately, players can minimize setbacks and enhance their overall gameplay efficiency, ultimately shortening their total playtime.
Can I replay Elden Ring after completing it?
Yes, Elden Ring is designed to be replayable, encouraging players to return after completing the game. With different character builds, classes, and playthrough strategies, each run can provide a unique experience. Furthermore, certain decisions and paths taken during gameplay can alter the narrative and ending, enticing players to explore different outcomes.
Additionally, the game features New Game Plus (NG+) mode, which allows players to start over while retaining their attributes and equipment. This mode not only adds layers of challenge as enemies become stronger but also furnishes additional opportunities to explore areas or quests that might have been missed during the first playthrough.
What is the average time to achieve 100% completion in Elden Ring?
Achieving 100% completion in Elden Ring typically requires around 100 to 150 hours of committed gameplay. This includes completing the main story, all side quests, finding collectibles, and defeating optional bosses scattered throughout the game. The enormity of the game’s world contributes to the extended playtime for completionists.
However, individual times may vary due to differences in play styles and strategies used during gameplay. Some players may find quick methods to collect items or traverse certain areas, while others may take a more leisurely approach, leading to longer completion times.
What can players do if they find the game too long?
If players feel that the game is taking longer than expected, there are several options to consider to help manage their experience. First, players can set specific goals for each gaming session, such as focusing solely on completing a few quests or exploring a particular area, which can create a more structured approach to gameplay.
Secondly, players might consider reviewing guides or watching playthroughs to understand the most efficient paths for completing certain quests or challenges. This can help streamline their journey and reduce the time spent on difficult sections they may be stuck on. Ultimately, it is about balancing the enjoyment of discovery with the desire to see the game’s conclusion.