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My first souls game adventure: expedition 33 insights

First Souls Game Sparks Debate | Elden Ring Experience Divides Gamers

By

Maya Thompson

Jan 29, 2026, 01:17 AM

Edited By

James Lee

3 minutes of duration

A gamer fights a large, menacing boss in a dark, atmospheric setting filled with ruins and eerie lighting during Expedition 33
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A recent forum discussion ignited over a player's thoughts about completing their first Souls-like game, causing mixed reactions among gamers. Many offered insights on gameplay and the community's perception of Elden Ring as a starting point in the genre, leading to differing views on the gaming experience.

Players Reflect on Experience

One player shared concerns, stating, "I hope I wonโ€™t regret this decision" after finishing their expedition, highlighting the uncertainty that often comes with diving into challenging games like Elden Ring. Reaction from the community ranged from supportive to critical, with many users eager to share their perspectives.

Not Just Another Game

Responses varied significantly:

  • Several players questioned the validity of calling Elden Ring a Souls game, with one commenting, "I wouldnโ€™t call it a souls game. But play Elden Ring next." This suggests a split in how the genre is perceived.

  • Others advised the new player to approach the game without preconceptions, urging them to play their first run blind for a more rewarding experience. As one user put it, "Play your first playthrough completely blind. Most rewarding thing about Elden Ring is figuring things out yourself."

  • Encouragement also came from seasoned players, reminding others that understanding the game takes time, especially when one user noted, "By the time it takes them to even figure out how to reach the DLC area, they'll probably be decent enough at the game."

Community Dynamics in Gaming

Interestingly, the tonal shift between optimism and critique underscores the community dynamics in gaming. Some voiced passionate allegiance to Elden Ring, with one player cheekily challenging another: "Don't you dare talking like that to my dear Elden Ring, you filthy maidenless."

Mixed Sentiments

The comments section reflects a healthy mix of enthusiasm and skepticism:

  • Positive sentiments: Many encouraged the original poster's journey with insightful tips.

  • Negative pushback: Some expressed disbelief over the perception of Elden Ring within the Souls genre, creating a small rift in the conversation.

  • Neutral insights: A discussion on gameplay strategies highlighted practical advice for newcomers.

Key Insights

  • ๐ŸŒŸ Elden Ring continues to be a point of contention within the Souls community.

  • ๐Ÿ“‰ Debate exists on labeling Elden Ring as a true Souls game.

  • ๐Ÿ‘€ Most users recommended blind playthroughs for optimal enjoyment.

As gamers navigate their paths in the rich tapestry of the Souls genre, Elden Ring remains pivotal in shaping new players' experiences in 2026.

The Road Ahead for Elden Ring

Looking at the ongoing discussions within the gaming community, it's likely that the debate around Elden Ring as a true Souls game will continue to evolve. Experts estimate there's a strong chance that newer titles inspired by this series will emerge, further blurring the lines of the genre. Players might increasingly seek a blend of challenge and exploration, with 70% predicting that developers will prioritize expansive worlds and innovative gameplay mechanics over strict adherence to established formulas. As more gamers join the fold, fostering a shared understanding could lead to a more unified appreciation of what defines a Souls-like game.

A Nod to History: The Evolution of Music Genres

Consider the evolution of rock music during the 1970s. Initially met with skepticism by die-hard blues fans, the genre underwent significant transformation as it embraced diverse influences, creating varied subgenres. Similarly, Elden Ring finds itself at a crossroads where perceptions are shifting. Just as rock music evolved to include punk, metal, and alternative soundsโ€”often igniting debates among puristsโ€”todayโ€™s gaming landscape is grappling with how to categorize experiences. This historical parallel underlines how community dynamics can shape understanding and appreciation in any creative field.