FromSoftware is on a roll, continuously delivering acclaimed titles since the debut of Demon's Souls in 2009. Despite the success of games like Elden Ring, there is always room for improvement. Ensuring that future FromSoftware creations are even more engaging and immersive is key.
What distinguishes FromSoftware from other game developers is its steadfast dedication to a unique creative vision. While many games aim for smooth experiences, FromSoftware embraces player frustration to preserve the intended gameplay feel. This approach extends to its storytelling, world-building, and plot delivery, aspects that could benefit from some evolution in upcoming releases.
Rethinking FromSoftware's Quest Design Philosophy
The Enigma of FromSoftware Stories Versus Side Quests
FromSoftware has shown progress in various areas, yet its narrative style has stayed consistent since Demon's Souls. The deliberate ambiguity in lore requires active engagement from players to fully grasp the plots of Dark Souls, Bloodborne, or Elden Ring.
While gameplay-focused individuals can sidestep the overarching story, the studio provides minimal dialogue and cutscenes, leading to missed narrative elements for some. In contrast, side quests in Elden Ring, for example, offer compelling stories and challenges but lack clear progression paths, often resulting in players bypassing significant content.
Unlike the main lore, side quests are easily overlooked, occasionally altered, or abandoned after key story events. The vague instructions for these quests often necessitate external resources like guides, disrupting immersion more than seeking help for lore comprehension.
Striking a Balance in Quest Design
Simplifying quest tracking and comprehension could enhance future FromSoftware titles, yet the current complexity has its appeal. The ambiguity of side quests enhances immersion, requiring players to solve challenges independently, without modern conveniences like waypoints or quest logs.
While online guides can aid in completing side quests, excessive reliance on them can detract from the gaming experience, turning quests into mere tasks. If FromSoftware can maintain its unique quest design identity while improving clarity and reducing overlooks, its future games may achieve new levels of excellence.