How to create a good souls game : case : Elden Ring

Abstract

The main objective of this thesis is to analyse the factors that have contributed to the success of a souls game through the title Elden Ring, a highly renowned name from the game studio FromSoftware. This research paper aims to highlight the core design principles including world-building, combat mechanics, storytelling, and player agency in designing a perfect souls game.

Through literature review and analysis of documents, the content of the thesis includes the definition of the souls game genre as well as its formation and development, along with a case study. Analyse the success of Elden Ring and the factors that contributed to it.

The research aims to understand how the game’s design innovations and careful balance of difficulty and freedom contributed to its widespread appeal. Additionally, this research considers how player engagement, both among long-time Soulsborne fans and newcomers, played a significant role in shaping the game’s reception.