Recently, information about the live-action film adaptation of the popular video game Elden Ring has been announced, immediately stirring up excitement among the fan community.
Just a few hours after the news broke, a wave of mixed opinions flooded across various forums and social media platforms, covering numerous aspects: from the decision to adapt the film into a live-action format instead of an animated series, to the selection of directors and how the storyline will be adapted for the film’s narrative structure.
One of the most controversial topics is the source material of Elden Ring – renowned for its nonlinear narrative structure and lore that is primarily conveyed through environmental storytelling – and how effectively it can be translated into a film.
Many fans are understandably concerned, as adapting the intricate narrative and unique characteristics of the game into a live-action format poses significant challenges. One of the major issues when transitioning FromSoftware’s Souls games to film is the extensive lore that is often left to the community to interpret. Video games rarely translate directly into film due to their interactive nature. However, films cannot replicate this; they require a different approach to storytelling. As a result, critical details might be omitted, potentially diminishing the essence of the source material – this is a viewpoint shared by many fans.
However, some fans believe there is still a chance for success. If the focus is shifted toward NPCs or the world-building rather than solely on the character of the Tarnished, the film could thrive. A storyline centered around the lore could be more compelling than just following the main journey – a perspective shared by many fans. Despite the skepticism, the selection of Alex Garland – director of Ex Machina and Civil War – has sparked some hope for a thoughtful adaptation. Garland not only has experience in crafting “artistic and narrative-driven” films but also has a deep appreciation for the game. In a recent AMA on Reddit, he revealed he is currently playing up to NG+6 in the DLC Shadow of the Erdtree – a clear indication of his dedication to the Elden Ring universe.
Alongside the film project, Elden Ring continues to maintain its prominent place in the gaming community with new content. Following the release of the DLC Shadow of the Erdtree in 2024, next week, FromSoftware will launch Elden Ring: Nightreign – a multiplayer spinoff that promises to elevate the gaming experience to new heights.
