As an open-world action RPG from the creators of Dark Souls and Bloodborne, Elden Ring has taken the gaming world by storm. With its vast landscapes, intricate lore, and challenging gameplay, it\'s no surprise that many players find themselves completely immersed in its richly detailed universe. Yet, even the most dedicated adventurers might overlook some of the game\'s hidden gems. In this article, we delve into Elden Ring: 11 Surprising Features You Might Have Missed, uncovering secrets and intricacies that add even more layers to your gameplay experience.

From secluded NPC encounters to obscure item locations, Elden Ring is brimming with content that rewards curious explorers. Perhaps you missed the underground city bustling with rare enemies and unique treasures, or maybe an easily-overlooked dialogue option could change the course of your quest. These features not only enhance your journey but also provide a deeper appreciation for the game\'s intricate design.

Adventure in Elden Ring isn\'t just about battling colossal bosses or navigating through treacherous terrains. Sometimes, it's the subtle, often overlooked features that make the world feel truly alive. Whether you\'re a seasoned veteran or new to the lands of the Tarnished, our guide will help you uncover and appreciate these hidden aspects, ensuring you make the most out of your epic adventure.

Secret Areas and Hidden Doors

In the sprawling world of Elden Ring, discovering secret areas and unlocking hidden doors is half the adventure. These clandestine spots not only reward players with rare loot and lore but also unveil some of the game's most breathtaking environments. Ready to uncover these well-kept secrets?

From seemingly ordinary walls that dissolve upon touch to obscure pathways obstructed by foliage, the game is filled with concealed entrances waiting to be found. One such example can be found in the lush forests of Limgrave. Players who pay attention to their surroundings might notice a peculiar crack in a rock formation. Strike it, and you\'re greeted with a hidden cavern brimming with valuable treasures.

Hidden doors, often marked by subtle clues, beckon the inquisitive. Imagine traversing a decrepit castle and stumbling upon a peculiar, out-of-place brick in its long corridors. Push it, and a door materializes, leading you to a forgotten armory stocked with powerful equipment. These hidden passageways add layers of intrigue and reward the vigilant.

Examples like the illusory walls found in shady dungeons or the faint, glowing symbols hinting at accessible areas significantly enhance the gameplay. In some instances, defeating a challenging boss or solving a cryptic puzzle is the key to unlocking these secret locales.

Moreover, certain NPCs offer cryptic hints about hidden areas, urging players to embark on small-scale hunts within the larger questlines. The lore-rich environment of Elden Ring ensures that every discovered secret area is more than just a scenic detour; it\'s a piece of the grander narrative puzzle.

In essence, the thrill of uncovering secret areas and walking through hidden doors adds a profound layer of exploration to Elden Ring, making it a must-experience aspect for every player.

Summary:

• In Elden Ring, discovering secret areas and hidden doors offers rare loot, lore, and stunning environments, enhancing the adventure.
• Hidden entrances like illusory walls and obscure pathways reward players with treasures; subtle clues often mark these concealed spots.
• NPC hints, cryptic puzzles, and boss battles are vital to uncovering hidden areas, enriching the narrative and exploration experience in Elden Ring.

Unique NPC Quests and Storylines

Within the vast and immersive world of Elden Ring, players often find themselves enchanted by the intricate web of NPC quests and storylines. These quests add layers of depth and lore that elevate the game beyond its core mechanics. Whether you are a seasoned FromSoftware veteran or a newcomer, the unique NPC interactions are some of the most captivating experiences you might have overlooked.

One of the most notable aspects of these quests is their complexity and the impact they have on the game world. For instance, take the enigmatic character known as Roderika. Initially encountered at the Stormhill Shack, her tale of transformation from a fragile soul to a powerful ally in the Roundtable Hold is filled with emotional highs and lows. Assisting her through her questline not only grants you unique rewards, such as exclusive upgrades from her spirit tuning services, but also enriches the lore surrounding the game's mysterious environment.

Another remarkable NPC is Blaidd the Half-Wolf. His questline is intertwined with the overarching narrative of Ranni the Witch, and following his story can lead you to hidden areas, rare items, and alternative endings. Blaidd's loyalty and tragic fate make for one of the more emotionally charged story arcs, illustrating the narrative excellence that Elden Ring has to offer.

Then there's Diallos, a noble seeking vengeance for his slain brother. Encountering him at various points throughout the Lands Between, aiding him in his pursuit unveils deeper layers of the world's lore and grants unique items that can significantly impact your gameplay experience. His questline drives home the theme of unforgiving loyalty and the harsh realities of the game's universe.

These quests often come with hidden ramifications, affecting other NPCs and storylines in unforeseen ways. For instance, making certain choices in Seluvis's questline can have significant repercussions on your relationship with other characters like Ranni and Blaidd, showcasing the interconnected nature of the world.

Furthermore, completing these quests can lead to unique boss fights and special endings that provide insight into the world of Elden Ring. For example, aligning with the sinister undertones of the Frenzied Flame questline not only offers a different conclusion to the main story but also rewards you with unique gear and a deeper understanding of the cosmic entities at play.

In essence, the unique NPC quests and storylines in Elden Ring are a treasure trove of narrative beauty and gameplay depth. They encourage exploration, thoughtful engagement, and often require a keen eye to fully unravel. By diving deeper into these quests, players can uncover the myriad layers that make Elden Ring a truly unforgettable experience.

Summary:

• NPC quests in Elden Ring offer intricate storylines and significant impacts on the game world, such as Roderika's emotional transformation and her valuable spirit tuning services.
• Blaidd the Half-Wolf\'s and Diallos's quests reveal deeper lore, hidden areas, and affect gameplay through unique rewards, intertwining with other characters like Ranni the Witch.
• Choices within certain quests can lead to exclusive boss fights, special endings, and broader understanding of the cosmic elements, emphasizing Elden Ring\'s interconnected narrative richness.

Dynamic Weather Effects

One of the most immersive elements in Elden Ring, adding unprecedented depth to its already rich world, is its dynamic weather effects. This feature helps transform the game into a living, breathing entity where the environment feels just as alive as the characters that inhabit it. Unlike static environments in many other games, Elden Ring's world evolves continually, creating a profoundly engaging experience.

Imagine traversing a serene forest path under the gentle caress of sunlight, only to see ominous storm clouds rolling in, darkening your surroundings. The sudden shift from sunshine to a torrential downpour can drastically alter not just the visual aesthetics but also the gameplay dynamics. For example, rain-soaked terrain can reveal hidden paths and secrets while making traversal more perilous due to slippery surfaces.

Weather patterns are not just superficial changes; they actively impact in-game elements. Fog might limit your visibility, and lightning storms could introduce additional hazards, such as the chance of getting struck. This ever-changing climate keeps you constantly alert, requiring adaptive strategies whether you are exploring, engaging enemies, or simply navigating from one location to another.

The night and day cycles further enrich this feature. At dusk, visibility decreases, and the world takes on an eerie hue, making nocturnal creatures more aggressive. Conversely, daytime brings more clarity and a different assortment of enemies and challenges. These evolving elements ensure that no two gameplay experiences are ever quite the same, fostering replayability and a fresh sense of discovery every time you venture out.

This attention to environmental detail underscores FromSoftware's commitment to creating a deeply atmospheric world. The dynamic weather effects serve to enhance immersion, making Elden Ring not just a game you play, but a world you inhabit.

Summary:

• Elden Ring's dynamic weather effects create an immersive world where the environment evolves continually, enhancing the game's depth.
• Weather shifts, like going from sunshine to a torrential downpour, impact both visual aesthetics and gameplay dynamics, revealing hidden paths and affecting traversal.
• Night and day cycles, along with weather patterns, actively impact in-game elements and enemy behavior, ensuring a unique and engaging experience each time you play.

Environmental Storytelling

One of the most extraordinary aspects of Elden Ring is its masterful use of environmental storytelling. Unlike some games that rely heavily on dialogue and cutscenes to convey their narratives, Elden Ring immerses players in a world where the environment itself tells a story. This subtle yet potent form of storytelling can easily be overlooked, but it enriches the experience beyond measure.

Take, for example, the ruined temples and ancient fortresses scattered throughout the landscape. You will often find remnants of epic battles, with broken weapons, discarded armor, and scorch marks hinting at past conflicts. These visual cues encourage players to piece together the history of the world, creating a deeper connection to the environment.

Another striking example is the weather-worn statues and carvings that you might stumble upon. Each sculpture tells a part of the tale, from revered deities to fallen heroes. Pay close attention to their expressions, postures, and even the material they are fashioned from to gain insight into the culture and lore of the land.

Don't miss the opportunity to explore the less obvious areas, like hidden caves and forgotten crypts. Often, these locations hold significant narrative weight, filled with artifacts or inscriptions that shed light on forgotten legends and lost civilizations. For instance, you might find an inscription detailing a heroic deed or a mural depicting an ancient prophecy.

Even the flora and fauna in Elden Ring contribute to its environmental storytelling. The types of plants and creatures you encounter can give clues about the area\'s history and its status within the game world. A once-vibrant forest now twisted and corrupted by dark magic speaks volumes about recent events or ongoing struggles.

In Elden Ring, every element in the world is deliberately placed to convey a story, making the act of exploration itself a deeply narrative-driven experience. Paying attention to your surroundings can reveal surprising features and details that not only enhance your understanding of the game's lore but also make the adventure all the more rewarding.

Summary:

• Elden Ring uses environmental storytelling, immersing players in a narrative-rich world through visual cues like ruined temples and ancient fortresses.
• Elements such as weather-worn statues, hidden caves, and forgotten crypts provide insight into the game's culture, lore, and history.
• Flora and fauna also contribute to the storytelling, helping to convey the history and status of different areas within the game world.

Puzzle-Based Exploration

One of the most immersive aspects of Elden Ring that might have slipped under the radar for many players is its intricate puzzle-based exploration. The game's world, which is dripping with lore and atmosphere, hides a multitude of puzzles that reward players with valuable items, lore, and progression elements.

As you venture through the richly detailed landscapes, you will encounter everything from environmental puzzles to complex mechanisms that require a keen eye for detail. For instance, early in the game, you might come across cryptic symbols and hidden levers within ancient ruins that need to be deciphered and activated to open secret passages or unlock treasure chests.

One notable example is the Shimmering Cavern, where players must navigate a labyrinth filled with glowing crystals and shifting walls. By using the environment to reflect light beams in a specific pattern, players can reveal hidden pathways and access rare resources. This adds a layer of depth to the game, ensuring that exploration is not just linear but also intellectually engaging.

Another key area highlighting the importance of puzzle-based exploration is the mysterious Tower of Sorcery. Within its confines, players must solve a sequence of magical riddles to deactivate potent wards guarding high-level gear and ancient texts that unveil deeper story elements. These riddles often involve aligning runes in a precise order or using specific spells in conjunction with artifacts scattered around the tower.

Moreover, the open-world design of Elden Ring encourages players to revisit previously explored areas with newfound abilities or insights, revealing additional layers of these intricate puzzles. The interconnected nature of the game world means that solving a puzzle in one region might unlock previously inaccessible areas or items in another.

The satisfaction derived from these puzzle-solving experiences is enriched by the game's rewarding feedback loop. Successful exploration and solving of puzzles often lead to substantial in-game rewards: powerful weapons, rare items, and unique lore pieces that enhance both gameplay and narrative depth.

If you\'re the type of player who enjoys paying attention to subtle hints and piecing together intricate lore, the puzzle-based exploration in Elden Ring will provide an immensely gratifying experience. Not only does it make the game world feel more alive and interactive, but it also continually challenges players to think outside the box and engage with the game on a deeper intellectual level.

Summary:

• Elden Ring features intricate puzzle-based exploration that rewards players with items, lore, and progression elements.
• Players encounter a variety of puzzles, such as cryptic symbols, hidden levers, and magical riddles, which reveal secret passages, treasure chests, and high-level gear.
• The open-world design encourages revisiting areas with new abilities, offering substantial rewards like powerful weapons, rare items, and unique lore pieces.

Advanced Combat Mechanics

One of the most remarkable aspects of Elden Ring is its intricate and highly evolved combat mechanics. While the game inherits many core elements from previous FromSoftware titles, several advanced features set it apart that even seasoned players might miss on their first playthrough.

One such feature is the implementation of guard counters. Unlike traditional parrying, guard counters allow players to immediately retaliate with a powerful attack after a successful block. This technique not only opens up new strategic options but also makes defensive playstyles more viable in a variety of encounters.

Another nuanced mechanic is the introduction of stance-breaking. Each enemy has a hidden stance meter that, once depleted, leaves them staggered and vulnerable to critical hits. This can be achieved by targeting specific attack patterns or using heavy weapons to break through defenses more quickly. For example, consistently hitting an adversary's shielded side can often expedite the stance-breaking process.

Furthermore, magic and ranged combat have received substantial updates. Spells and ranged weapons can now be seamlessly integrated into melee combat. For instance, casting a spell mid-combo can catch enemies off guard, allowing players to chain together intricate attacks that keep foes on the defensive. Additionally, the ability to charge spells provides a risk-reward balance that introduces another layer of strategic depth.

One of the more subtle but game-changing mechanics is weapon arts. Each weapon comes with its unique skill, ranging from powerful area-of-effect attacks to buffs that temporarily increase attack power or defense. Mastering these weapon arts can mean the difference between victory and defeat, especially in crucial encounters.

Let's not overlook the importance of environmental interactions in combat. Certain terrains offer vantage points for ranged attacks, while others may allow you to trap enemies or use the surroundings to your advantage. For example, leading a monstrous creature over a weak bridge might cause it to collapse, giving you an easy win.

Lastly, the integration of summons and spirit ashes adds another layer of complexity. Summoning NPC allies or utilizing spirit ashes can turn the tide in difficult battles, offering support through additional damage, distraction, or even healing spells. These elements compel players to think beyond simple swordplay, adding layers of tactical planning to every skirmish.

Each of these advanced combat mechanics contributes to the rich, multi-faceted experience that is Elden Ring. As players uncover and master these features, they will find themselves more deeply immersed in the game's challenging yet rewarding world.

Summary:

• The advanced combat mechanics in Elden Ring include unique features like guard counters for immediate retaliation after a block, stance-breaking to stagger enemies for critical hits, and weapon arts with specific skills for every weapon.
• Magic and ranged combat have been significantly updated to integrate seamlessly with melee combat, enabling intricate combo attacks and strategic use of charged spells.
• Environmental interactions and the use of summons and spirit ashes offer tactical advantages and complexity, from utilizing terrain to summoning NPC allies for additional support in battles.

Customizable Mounts

One of the most exciting features in Elden Ring that you might have missed is the inclusion of customizable mounts. Unlike many other open-world games where you\'re often stuck with a generic horse or creature, Elden Ring lets you tailor your ride to your preferences, adding another layer of immersion and personalization to your journey.

In Elden Ring, players aren\'t limited to just a single type of mount. You have the ability to customize your mount\'s appearance to suit your aesthetic or tactical needs. This includes changing the color of your mount\'s fur or feathers, adding decorative armor, and even selecting different types of saddles and reins to enhance both the look and the functionality of your ride.

Beyond visual customization, these mounts can also be enhanced with unique abilities. For instance, you might opt for a mount that has exceptional speed to quickly traverse the expansive world, or one with higher endurance to withstand longer journeys without the need to rest frequently. Some mounts might even grant you special combat advantages, such as enhanced evasion techniques or the ability to perform mounted attacks more efficiently.

The process of customizing your mount is straightforward, making it accessible even for those new to the game. You can usually find specialized NPCs in key locations who offer extensive customization services. These NPCs may require specific in-game currency or materials, which makes exploring and collecting resources feel even more rewarding.

Let\'s not forget about the social aspect of having a uniquely customized mount. In multiplayer sessions, showing off your personalized mount can be a thrilling way to express your in-game achievements and style. It\'s always a delight to see the level of creativity and uniqueness that other players bring to the game.

Finally, mounts in Elden Ring are not just for travel; they also aid in environmental exploration. Certain areas might only be accessible via specific types of mounts capable of special jumps or climbing abilities. Thus, the way you customize your mount can heavily influence the experience of exploring the game world, making each expedition uniquely yours.

In conclusion, customizable mounts add significant depth to Elden Ring's gameplay, making it an essential feature for any player looking to enhance their adventure. Whether you're focused on aesthetics, functionality, or both, the ability to tailor your mount to your liking enriches the overall experience, turning every journey across the game\'s vast landscapes into a personalized adventure.

Summary:

• In Elden Ring, you can customize your mount's appearance and abilities, including color, armor, and specialized saddles and reins.
• Mounts can be tailored for speed, endurance, and combat advantages, enhancing both travel and exploration.
• Customization is accessible via NPCs using in-game currency or materials, adding a rewarding aspect to resource collection.

Hidden Boss Fights

One of the most thrilling aspects of Elden Ring is undoubtedly its hidden boss fights. These secret encounters offer unique challenges, rewarding players with rare items and unforgettable experiences. To uncover these clandestine foes, you need to keep a keen eye on your surroundings and embrace your inner explorer.

Imagine this: you carefully navigate a seemingly innocuous cave, only to stumble upon a concealed passage. Venturing deeper, the atmosphere thickens, and suddenly, you face off against a hidden boss like the ferocious Nightmare Guardian. This formidable enemy might not be tied to the main storyline, but defeating them bestows exclusive rewards like the coveted Phantom Blade.

An excellent example of such secrecy can be found within the Ruins of Thalnor. Players might overlook a small, unassuming lever amidst the crumbling walls. Pulling it reveals a hidden staircase leading to the lair of the elusive Sorcerer Lord Eris. Only by defeating him can you obtain the rare scrolls needed to unlock advanced spellcasting abilities.

In another corner of the vast Elden Ring world, the forgotten temple at Serpent's Hollow harbors another secret. A discreetly placed pressure plate opens a chamber where the Venomous Warden awaits. This encounter not only tests your combat prowess but also rewards you with the Warden's Amulet, an artifact that drastically enhances poison resistance.

These hidden boss fights serve not only as remarkable highlights in your Elden Ring journey but also as a testament to the game's rich, layered design. Engaging with these secret bosses ensures you won't miss out on the full extent of what the game has to offer.

Summary:

• Hidden boss fights in Elden Ring offer unique challenges and rare rewards, pushing players to explore their surroundings.
• Secret bosses like Nightmare Guardian, Sorcerer Lord Eris, and Venomous Warden can be found in concealed locations such as the Ruins of Thalnor and Serpent's Hollow.
• Defeating these hidden foes grants exclusive items like the Phantom Blade, rare spell scrolls, and Warden's Amulet, enhancing the overall gaming experience.

Dynamic NPC Interactions

In a game as vast and intricate as Elden Ring, the thrill of discovery is endless. One aspect that significantly enhances the immersive experience is its dynamic NPC interactions. Unlike the static and scripted encounters in many games, Elden Ring's NPCs offer an unpredictable range of behaviors and responses, making each playthrough unique.

For instance, NPCs in Elden Ring don\'t merely stand around waiting for you to initiate dialogue. They have their own set routines and can be found in different locations depending on the in-game time or events. Some NPCs might be more friendly or hostile based on your actions or the quests you've completed, adding layers of depth to the narrative.

One memorable example is the NPC Merchant Kalé, who moves between various locations. When you first meet him, he sets up shop in a dilapidated church. As you progress through the game, he relocates to different areas, each time altering his inventory to reflect the changed environment. This not only keeps the game world feeling alive but also rewards players who pay attention to these subtle shifts.

Another notable dynamic feature is how your interactions influence the fate of certain NPCs. Take the character Ranni the Witch as an example. Depending on your choices during her questline, you can have radically divergent outcomes, from aiding her in her mysterious pursuits to inadvertently causing her demise. Your decisions can trigger a series of events that affect other NPCs tied to her story, making the consequences of your choices feel significant and far-reaching.

Moreover, NPCs often react to your attire, weapon choices, and even your progress through the game. Wearing the insignias of defeated factions might provoke hostile reactions, while brandishing rare weapons could garner respect or fear. This dynamic extends to enemies as well, with some choosing to flee or surrender if they perceive you as an overwhelmingly powerful threat.

These dynamic NPC interactions significantly differentiate Elden Ring from its predecessors and contemporaries, offering a more immersive, unpredictable, and engaging experience. To fully appreciate the richness of this feature, it's essential to interact with as many NPCs as possible and pay close attention to how your actions ripple through the game world. It's these intricate details that make exploring the lands between the game\'s hidden gems not just fun, but deeply rewarding.

Summary:

• Elden Ring's dynamic NPC interactions involve unpredictable behaviors and responses, enriching the immersive experience.
• NPC routines vary by in-game events, influencing friendliness or hostility based on player actions and completed quests.
• Interactions with NPCs affect game outcomes, with choices leading to differing fates and altering the game's narrative extensively.

Rare Crafting Materials

One of the most intriguing elements of Elden Ring is the inclusion of rare crafting materials that can be found throughout the game\'s expansive world. These materials are not only essential for crafting high-tier weapons, armor, and items but also add an extra layer of exploration and excitement to the gameplay. Players who invest time in locating these elusive components will be rewarded with powerful upgrades and unique gear.

For instance, Somber Smithing Stones are a highly sought-after material required for upgrading special weapons. Unlike their more common counterparts, these stones are scattered in hidden locations, often guarded by formidable foes or situated in hard-to-reach areas. Another example is the Ancient Dragon Smithing Stone, which allows players to enhance their weapons to their maximum potential. These are incredibly rare and might involve completing specific quests or facing late-game challenges to acquire.

Another notable material is the Glovewort, used predominantly for upgrading Spirit Ashes, which summon spirits to aid you in battle. Different tiers of Glovewort are needed depending on the level of Spirit Ash you aim to bolster, making it crucial to keep an eye out for this plant during your travels.

Similarly, Gravel Stone can be found nestled in dragon nests or dropped by certain draconic enemies. Its importance lies in its use for crafting lightning-based items, which can be exceptionally powerful against specific types of enemies.

The pursuit of these rare crafting materials encourages thorough exploration and adds depth to the overall gaming experience. Each material has its own set of uses and finding them often involves unraveling environmental puzzles, defeating high-level enemies, or unearthing hidden paths. Keep a lookout for them as you journey through Elden Ring; their benefits are well worth the effort required to obtain them.

Summary:

• Rare crafting materials in Elden Ring are critical for crafting high-tier weapons, armor, and items, adding excitement and exploration to the game.
• Important materials like Somber Smithing Stones, Ancient Dragon Smithing Stones, Glovewort, and Gravel Stone are found in hidden locations or dropped by formidable enemies.
• Pursuing these materials encourages thorough exploration, solving environmental puzzles, and defeating high-level enemies, enhancing the overall gaming experience.

World Events and Timed Activities

In the vast and enigmatic world of Elden Ring, players will encounter a myriad of world events and timed activities that can significantly affect their journey. These dynamic elements are not just random occurrences but carefully crafted experiences designed to offer depth and immersion.

One of the more intriguing features is the inclusion of seasonal events. These events change with the in-game calendar and bring new challenges, quests, and environmental changes. For example, during a particular season, you might find specific enemies that drop unique loot or hidden areas that are only accessible for a limited time. This ensures that players have a reason to keep coming back to the game throughout different times of the year.

Another captivating aspect is timed activities. These can range from impromptu boss battles to rare NPC merchants who appear only during certain hours. Imagine stumbling upon a haunted castle that only appears under the full moon or a wandering bard who offers rare items and lore snippets but vanishes at dawn. These time-sensitive events encourage players to explore at different hours and add an element of surprise and discovery to the gameplay.

Moreover, some quests are time-bound, meaning they must be completed within a specific timeframe to reap the rewards. For instance, an NPC might task you with retrieving an ancient artifact before the sands of time run out — a literal hourglass counting down your time. Completing these quests often grants powerful items or significant lore revelations that further enrich the world of Elden Ring.

The game also features world bosses that appear only under certain conditions. These titanic foes often require a concerted effort to defeat and typically drop impressive loot and other valuable rewards. Some may emerge during a thunderstorm, while others might rise from the depths of a lake at sunrise. These events not only add a layer of strategic planning but also create memorable moments that players can share and discuss.

Collectively, the world events and timed activities in Elden Ring are a testament to the game's intricate design and commitment to creating a living, breathing world. Each element compels players to pay close attention to the environment, leading to a richer and more engaging experience. So keep an eye on the skies and an ear to the ground; you never know when the next exciting event will unfold.

Summary:

• Seasonal events change with the in-game calendar, offering new challenges, quests, and unique loot, encouraging players to return throughout the year.
• Timed activities include impromptu boss battles and rare NPC merchants that appear only during specific hours, adding elements of surprise and discovery.
• Quests and world bosses are often time-bound and condition-specific, requiring strategic planning and offering powerful rewards and significant lore.