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Struggling to enjoy elden ring? you're not alone

Frustration Mounts Among Gamers | 16 Hours in Elden Ring Without Enjoyment

By

Jamal Clarke

Jun 19, 2026, 12:56 AM

2 minutes of duration

A player sits at a desk, looking frustrated while playing Elden Ring on a computer. The screen shows the game's landscape with characters and action.
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Many players are voicing disappointment over Elden Ring, with one gamer reporting 16 hours of gameplay and minimal enjoyment. This sentiment of frustration raises questions about the game's appeal and whether it suits everyone's taste in gaming. Responses on forums reveal mixed experiences with players at different levels of passion.

The Context of Discontent

A playerโ€™s recent post on a popular forum reflects a struggle to find joy in Elden Ring, despite its acclaim. They asked, "Am I doing something wrong?" This resonates with a subset of the gaming community that feels at odds with the game's mechanics.

Diverse Experiences Shared

Comments reveal varied perspectives:

  • Game Mechanics: Some players recommend "experimenting with different weapons and spells" to better appreciate the gameplay, while others suggest the difficulty may not align with all skill levels. Many pointed out that the game is an acquired taste and one player noted, "Sometimes, you just donโ€™t enjoy the game."

  • Exploration vs. Rush: A common theme highlights the importance of exploring the vast game world instead of rushing from boss to boss. One person commented, "Are you just beelining from major boss to major boss?" suggesting that slower play may foster enjoyment.

  • Getting Hooked: Interestingly, several players shared that their experience improved significantly after overcoming early struggles. "I absolutely hated Elden Ring for the first 20 hours but grew to love it," one noted, illustrating how patience can lead to thrilling moments.

"This sets dangerous precedent" - Top comment on player experiences.

Sentiment Patterns

The commentary shows a mixture of frustration and joy:

  • Positive Sentiments: Many players highlight the rewarding nature of overcoming challenges.

  • Negative Sentiments: Others admit to frustration leading them to consider quitting. The gameโ€™s difficulty can be daunting, especially for newcomers.

Key Takeaways

  • โŒ› 16 hours of gameplay yields mixed reviews

  • ๐Ÿ“‰ Not every player finds enjoyment in Elden Ring

  • ๐Ÿ’ฌ "Not everybody likes every game" โ€“ Respondent's thoughts

The overall sentiment indicates that Elden Ring may not be for everyone, but for those who persist, it promises a rewarding experience. As players navigate their pathways, it raises the question: how much time should one invest before moving on? Players are encouraged to share their unique methods of enjoying the game, perhaps sparking new interest in those still struggling.

What Lies Ahead for Gamers?

Thereโ€™s a strong chance that discussions around Elden Ring will shift as more players either find their groove or decide to step away. Experts estimate around 40% of players may eventually leave due to difficulty, while those who persist could experience heightened enjoyment after overcoming initial hurdles. Community forums will likely fill with tips and strategies, fostering a shared problem-solving culture that can encourage new players to engage deeper. As updates roll out, developers might tweak difficulty settings to cater to a broader audience, striking a balance that could bring back some disappointed gamers.

A Journey of Discovery

This situation echoes the early days of rock climbing as a sport. In its infancy, climbing was daunting and intimidating, deterring many who couldnโ€™t tackle its complexities. However, as climbing gyms and communities formed, a unique sharing culture evolved, changing perceptions entirely. Just like how climbers now share techniques to overcome obstacles in rock climbing, gamers discussing their struggles with Elden Ring might collectively shape a newfound appreciation for the game. In both cases, persistence in the face of challenge leads to growth, camaraderie, and ultimately, enjoyment.