ELDEN RING NIGHTREIGN: The Forsaken Hollows - A Dance of Delight and Despair

When the map is your greatest enemy

Launch Day Larry

In the vast, sprawling world of ELDEN RING NIGHTREIGN: The Forsaken Hollows, players are invited to embark on a journey that promises both awe and agony. This latest DLC is a mixed bag of breathtaking visuals and frustrating gameplay mechanics, where the line between challenge and chore is as thin as a sword’s edge.

Gameplay: A Symphony of Chaos

The gameplay in The Forsaken Hollows is a curious blend of innovation and irritation. On one hand, the DLC introduces new characters and boss fights that are as engaging as they are challenging. The Undertaker, for instance, is a character that many players find strong and self-reliant, while the boss mechanics, particularly those involving the Demon Princes, are a testament to the developers’ creativity.

However, the gameplay is marred by a lack of player agency. The game often feels like it’s holding your hand, guiding you down predetermined paths that strip away the thrill of exploration. The map, while visually appealing, is a navigational nightmare, lacking layers and indicators that would make traversing the terrain less of a headache. It’s as if the map was designed by someone who thought GPS was a myth.

The introduction of new content is a double-edged sword. While the new characters and consumables add depth, the absence of new weapons and skills leaves players yearning for more variety. The roguelike weapon system offers replayability, but the recycled content from previous games feels like a missed opportunity for fresh innovation.

Graphics: Beauty in the Eye of the Beholder

Visually, The Forsaken Hollows is a feast for the eyes. The new map is described as “gorgeous,” with a level of design quality that is both impressive and immersive. The characters, too, are a visual treat, with interesting graphical elements that enhance the overall experience.

Yet, these visual delights are overshadowed by severe performance issues. Frame rate drops are as common as a rainy day in London, with players reporting dips to as low as 10 FPS during intense moments. The lack of optimization, especially on PC, is a glaring flaw that turns what should be a smooth experience into a jittery mess. And for those with ultra-wide monitors, the experience is akin to watching a blockbuster through a letterbox.

Story: A Tale of Triumph and Tribulation

The narrative of The Forsaken Hollows is a tapestry of compelling characters and original content. The introduction of new characters like Strength Faith and the Scholar adds depth to the story, providing fresh perspectives that players find engaging. The DLC’s commitment to originality, with new assets and characters, is a breath of fresh air in a world often plagued by rehashed content.

However, the story is not without its flaws. The map design, while visually stunning, is a poor fit for the game’s exploration mechanics, creating a disconnect that hinders the narrative flow. Additionally, some characters, despite their potential, fall flat, with abilities that lack the depth and excitement of their predecessors.

Final Verdict

ELDEN RING NIGHTREIGN: The Forsaken Hollows is a DLC that dances on the edge of greatness but stumbles over its own feet. The game offers moments of brilliance, with engaging boss fights and stunning visuals, but is held back by performance issues and a lack of player freedom. For those willing to brave the chaos, there is much to enjoy, but be prepared for a journey that is as frustrating as it is fascinating.

Score: 5.5/10