If You Want A Hardcore Game, Try Elden Ring

Okay, hear me out on this one. Yes, on the surface FromSoft’s highly acclaimed title has little to nothing in common with Nintendo’s latest outing in Hyrule. Everything from the tone to the gameplay to the difficulty is the complete opposite of the blissful experience Echoes of Wisdom provides, which is what makes it the perfect palette cleanser.

There are also just enough minor similarities to help get you through the brutal gauntlet Elden Ring throws at you. You will have “Spirit Ashes” that you can obtain as you journey through the dreary, devastated Land Between to help you survive and defeat horrifying bosses. There’s also a familiar sense of exploration that includes finding secret dungeons scattered throughout the world, though Elden Ring’s is obviously much grander (and more dangerous).

Of course, this pick isn’t for everyone. But if you found the new Zelda a little too breezy and are looking for a completely different type of experience, Elden Ring will offer an experience unlike anything else. Also don’t be afraid to call on other players. It’s a feature of the game. It’s not cheating!