In a recent discussion with PC Gamer, Hidetaka Miyazaki, the creative mind behind Elden Ring, acknowledged the widespread use of Elden Ring guides by players to navigate FromSoftware’s notoriously challenging games.
While he views consulting guides as “a perfectly valid playstyle,” Miyazaki also believes there’s “room for improvement” in their game design to better support those who prefer to explore their titles without external help.
According to Miyazaki, the reliance on guides indicates a potential gap in the intuitive design of the game, something the team at FromSoftware aims to address. “We obviously understand [players use guides], but we don’t make or plan anything with that as a prerequisite,” he explained.
Miyazaki’s comments come as the studio prepares for the release of Elden Ring’s eagerly anticipated DLC, “Shadow of the Erdtree,” slated for release on June 21 across all major platforms. This expansion continues the challenging legacy of the base game, beginning with the formidable task of defeating Mohg, the Lord of Blood, to access the new content—a hurdle that remains unmet by many players.
The design philosophy of creating a game that can be fully experienced without guides is a cornerstone of Miyazaki’s vision. This ethos is expected to permeate the upcoming DLC, where players will embark from a withered arm hanging from a split cocoon, marking the start of their new adventure. “If players wanting a fresh experience can’t beat the game organically, then there’s some room for improvement on our behalf,” Miyazaki noted, highlighting a commitment to inclusivity in gaming challenge.
