Elden Ring Difficulty and Accessibility Lecture Notes

Video Overview

• Alana released a video discussing the difficulty of Elden Ring's DLC and its accessibility.
• The video sparked controversy among gamers, particularly regarding difficulty levels and accessibility.

Key Points

Alana's Arguments on Accessibility

• FromSoftware games often spark debates about difficulty and accessibility.
• Elden Ring is their most accessible game but still has room for improvement.
• Alana believes disabled players can play Elden Ring with the right build.
• Suggestions for improvements include making certain aspects of gameplay more accommodating.

Difficulty and Gaming Experience

• Negative reviews on Steam mention the DLC 'Shadow of the Erdtree' as too hard.
• FromSoft games are known for their high difficulty; this is considered a core part of their appeal and design.
• Players enjoy the challenge of learning boss mechanics and overcoming them after several attempts.

Common Arguments and Misconceptions

• Some players argue that increased difficulty is unnecessary and exclusionary.
• There is a misconception that part of the game's appeal is overcoming its challenges, but Alana asserts this challenge is the game's core essence.

Criticism and 'Get Good' Mentality

• Some players criticize those who find the game too hard, often employing a 'get good' mentality.
• There is a belief that criticism of FromSoft games is often dismissed by hardcore fans.
• Good game design should distinguish between being hard and being unfair or unplayable due to bad design (hitboxes, animations).

Accessibility Features and Options

• Alana suggests adding more accessibility options without compromising the game's challenge.
• Shadow of the Erdtree includes new features like the Scattertree Fragments that can help players struggling with the DLC.
• These fragments act as optional consumables to enhance offensive and defensive capabilities specifically for the DLC.

Misinterpretation of Accessibility

• There's a misunderstanding about what accessibility advocates are asking for; they're not asking for an easy mode but rather for options that allow those with disabilities to enjoy the challenge on equal footing.
• Situational disabilities can impact gaming (e.g., needing to pause because of kids).

Solutions and Recommendations

• Adding a defined ending screen that details how one finished the game, including any accessibility options used, could prevent gatekeeping.
• Alana argues against the idea that more customization options, like a pause button or keybinding improvements, would harm the core challenge of the game.

Community Reactions and Broader Implications

• The backlash on social media often stems from misinterpreting statements about accessibility as demands for making games easier.
• A shared gaming experience is valued, but the community often ostracizes those who express difficulties or advocate for more inclusivity.
• Proponents of strict difficulty are often motivated by a fear of diminishing their accomplishments or the shared experience.

Final Thoughts

• Accessibility improvements should aim to enhance playability without diminishing the unique challenges that FromSoft games offer.
• Meaningful discussions about accessibility and difficulty should focus on constructive changes without diluting core gameplay elements.