Aging Untouchable Elden Ring

Caroline Mae

2 min read

·

06-01-2025

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FromSoftware's Elden Ring has captivated gamers worldwide with its challenging gameplay, sprawling open world, and deeply intricate lore. But beyond the initial thrill of conquering challenging bosses and exploring the Lands Between lies a fascinating aspect often overlooked: the subtle, yet significant, aging of the player character, the Tarnished. While not explicitly stated, the aging process is a cleverly woven detail within the game's narrative and mechanics, adding another layer of depth to the already rich experience.

The Subtle Signs of Time

Unlike many RPGs that feature overt aging systems with visible changes to character models, Elden Ring presents its aging more subtly. There's no gradual graying of hair or wrinkling of skin. Instead, the aging is suggested through narrative context and implied character progression.

Narrative Context:

• The Tarnished's Journey: The Tarnished, banished and forgotten, embarks on a long and arduous journey. This journey, filled with battles, trials, and exploration, inherently suggests the passage of time. The length of this journey, and the numerous encounters along the way, naturally imply aging, even if not visually represented.
• The Age of the Lands Between: The Lands Between itself is old, decaying, and in a state of ruin. The Tarnished's journey through this decaying world further reinforces the sense of the passage of time and their own place within this larger context.

Implied Progression:

• Accumulated Experience: The character's strength and skills grow dramatically throughout the game. This increased prowess is a subtle but effective indication of the time and effort invested in their journey, implying that significant time has passed. The sheer volume of enemies vanquished and challenges overcome underlines this sense of extended time.
• Spiritual and Emotional Growth: Beyond physical strength, the Tarnished's emotional and spiritual journey is equally significant. Confronting challenges, overcoming obstacles, and experiencing loss inevitably shape the character, implying a maturing process that evolves alongside the game's narrative arc.

The Significance of Implied Aging

The choice by FromSoftware to subtly imply aging rather than explicitly depict it is a deliberate artistic decision. This subtle approach allows players to focus on the core gameplay, while simultaneously encouraging introspection and reflection on the character's journey. It fosters a sense of immersion and realism, as real-world aging is rarely a sudden, visually striking event.

Conclusion:

Elden Ring's unique approach to character aging enhances the player's immersion and invites deeper engagement with the game's rich narrative. While not explicitly presented, the subtle clues subtly communicate the passage of time, augmenting the sense of accomplishment and the overall weight of the Tarnished's arduous journey across the Lands Between. This subtle attention to detail is yet another example of FromSoftware's masterful storytelling and game design.