The Lands Between are vast yet curiously devoid of flowing rivers. Its lakes and coastlines teem with life while its heroes plunge into dark depths on land. Why then, in a world drenched with mystery, can we not slip into its waters?
The truth behind Elden Ring’s aquatic absence holds an intriguing secret that no Tarnished has managed to unravel. Join us on a journey to fathom the enigmatic forces that bar us from Elden Ring’s waves – and discover what lurks in its wet and wild depths.
The Surprising Absence of Swimming in Elden Ring
While Elden Ring presents an immense landscape for players to traverse, there exists a notable lack of swimming in its bodies of water. This absence is intriguing, considering the game’s focus on traversing various terrains.
One could speculate on the reasons behind this decision. Perhaps the game’s creators aimed to concentrate the player’s experiences on land, where battles and obstacles are plentiful. Alternatively, the intricate nature of water interactions mightn’t integrate seamlessly with the game’s existing mechanics.
As a result, players must seek alternative methods to cross these challenging landscapes and reveal the hidden wonders they contain.
Gameplay Design: Why FromSoftware Disabled Swimming
The choice of FromSoftware to eliminate the ability to swim in Elden Ring significantly influenced the game’s mechanics and the strategies players must employ. With the elimination of aquatic traversal, the game environment compels players to remain on terra firma, facing the treacherous trails it presents.
This constraint enhances the tactical aspect of journeying through the Lands Between.
Players must:
- Search for concealed crossings or areas where water levels are low to traverse rivers that may be perilous.
- Carefully plan their travel to circumvent large, impenetrable bodies of water, which adds an element of problem-solving to the game’s exploratory aspects.
- Engage adversaries without the option of retreat into aquatic sanctuaries, increasing the tension within each conflict.
This strategic decision by the developers encourages players to use their ingenuity and adapt to the land-based challenges, ensuring that each trek through the game’s environment remains enthralling and demanding.
How Do You Cross Water in Elden Ring?
Traversing aquatic barriers within Elden Ring demands locating shallow crossings, structures spanning water, or minimal depth stretches where your spectral companion can safely tread.
Immersion in water is beyond your abilities, so planning your route around aquatic expanses is key. Seek out land contours that gently incline into the water without becoming too profound. These paths will permit passage without the peril of submersion.
When traversing without your spectral companion, exercise increased caution. Your mobility is diminished compared to when you’re astride your mount, which can negotiate less deep waters and is crucial for covering wider spans. Always survey the terrain, as it may provide clues to concealed passageways or more secure transit options across challenging aquatic landscapes.
