Critical analysis detailing aspects of Elden Ring's mechanical design which diminish its otherwise excellent campaign.

00:00 Introduction
02:23 The Spectral Steed
08:38 The Crafting System
10:14 The Quirks of Combat
15:51 The Abundant Repetition
21:31 The Leashing of Enemies
23:50 The Spirit Ashes
28:29 The Unjustified Mechanics
34:18 Conclusion

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The media clips used in this video are expressly for review commentary, academic criticism, and comparison; their inclusion falls under the purview of Fair Use and does not violate copyright.

Corrections:

1. I say that attempting to resummon Torrent is the only way to check whether it has been defeated. I maintain that there should have only been one system for being forced from the mount in combat, but that particular claim is incorrect; there is an audio cue and an icon overlay on the whistle when a flask is required.

2. I say that teleportation "is unavailable in catacombs and after teleporter traps, but available in most caves and mines." I maintain that aspects of the fast travel mechanic lack sufficient in-universe justification, but that particular claim is incorrect; it is always impossible to teleport out when a dungeon area's boss is still alive, and possible after the boss is dead.