The Game's Dodge Roll Warrants Praise
If you've played the popular action RPG, or just about any 3D action game, you're probably well-versed in the wonderful technique referred to as the “dodge roll.” This defensive move allows your character to carry out a front, lateral, or rearward tumble to evade incoming harm and gain space from foes. Appears practical, right?
This rolling move, nevertheless, has attracted plenty of criticism, not simply due to the tumbling; it's been labeled dumb, a cop-out, and an unbelievable technique — and sometimes, I agree. You should see me somersaulting past hostile mobs in another popular RPG — can't touch this Geralt! But Elden Ring's rolling dodge is the dodge roll to top all dodge rolls dodge rolls, and here's the reason.
For this particular game, the creators discovered an excellent method to address all opinions that the move is overly simple: merely bestow each opponent excessive power, increase it further, and every Tarnished who approaches them will be eternally grateful thanks to their rolling skill, I'm no exception. With so much on the line, successfully rolling to victory feels like an achievement, rather than a cheap trick.
No alternative avoidance technique in this RPG matches this sense of satisfaction and reliability, as quick dashes offer limited distance and blocking attempts are easily broken by powerful foes. One player advised hopping as the main game evasion method, but besides failing to offer perfect repositioning, I couldn't understand how getting my skull smashed in could enhance my odds of defeating bosses (skill issue, perhaps).
Perfecting the Skill
Although the dodge roll provides relief in an otherwise brutal game, it requires practice. To begin with, the game's evasion move just activates a frame of protection after you let go of the dodge button, which hinders a quick, panicky escape from dangerous scenarios. Moreover, although it may transport you away from opponents, it's far more effective to use it as an opportunity to move nearer, preferably behind the opponent, and land some hits. Lastly, it remains necessary to grasp and foresee enemy attacks, as dodging at the start of a long charging animation might terminate your protection before the blow lands… resulting in severe damage.
A Harmonious System
While dodge-rolling in fast repetition may look a bit ridiculous (kudos to the Witcher anew), this isn't practically possible in Elden Ring. Naturally, that doesn't render it a realistic combat move — exactly the reason it would be dreadful to experience it in a product like a historical simulation — but this is a flashy fantasy title we're talking about, thus why worry?
Like any proper rolling dodge, Elden Ring's dodge motion is enhanced with a brief tumbling leap at the commencement, giving it an energetic feel rather than plopping the player onto the ground. According to your loadout, the technique may seem incredibly quick or somewhat sluggish, however, it's consistently quicker and smoother than the evasion moves used in the earlier games. Admittedly, you could plant your big blade on the floor if you're carrying one, but that's your own fault for avoiding a crossbow (Just kidding — avoid using the game using ranged options).
Ideal Equilibrium
Elden Ring's dodging mechanic creates the perfect balance between challenge and opportunity, providing prospects of success while endangering that very prospect at the tiniest misstep. Perfect this move, and you'll gain not only success, but fulfillment.
