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If you've played this acclaimed title, or most other third-person combat game, you're likely well-versed in the wonderful technique known as the “evasion roll.” This evasion technique enables your hero to perform a front, lateral, or rearward ground roll to evade any enemy attacks and move away from opponents. Sounds handy, wouldn't you say?

The dodge roll, though, has gotten a lot of flak, and not just due to the tumbling; some have dubbed it foolish, a easy way out, and an unbelievable technique — and sometimes, I agree. You should see me rolling around local Doppler gangs in another popular RPG — can't touch this Geralt! But Elden Ring's evasion move is the dodge roll to top all dodge rolls rolling dodges, and here's the reason.

For this particular game, the developers found a clever approach to address all opinions that the move is too easy: merely bestow all foes unreasonable strength, multiply it, and all heroes who approaches them will appreciate deeply for their dodge-roll ability, me included. When the stakes are this high, pulling off a perfect dodge seems like an accomplishment, rather than a cheap trick.

No alternative avoidance technique in the game matches this feeling of accomplishment and consistency, since rapid sprints don't cover much ground and guard stances are easily broken by strong enemies. Someone once recommended jumping as a go-to game avoidance strategy, but in addition to lacking optimal placement, I couldn't understand how getting my skull smashed in might boost my prospects of defeating bosses (lack of skill, maybe).

Perfecting the Skill

But even though the rolling dodge offers respite in an otherwise brutal game, it isn't without skill. First of all, this title's evasion move merely initiates a frame of protection once you stop pressing the dodge button, which hinders a quick, panicky escape from dire situations. Additionally, while it might move you aside from enemies, it's far more effective to use it as an opportunity to get closer, optimally at their back, and strike blows. And, finally, it remains necessary to understand and anticipate enemy attacks, since evading too early of a long charging animation could conclude your immunity ahead of the attack striking… causing significant harm.

A Well-Designed Feature

Even though rolling-dodging in quick succession may look a bit ridiculous (give it up for Geralt again), this isn't truly feasible in the game. Of course, that doesn't render it a plausible combat move — which is precisely why it would be pure horror to experience it in a product like a historical simulation — yet we're discussing a dazzling imaginative experience under discussion, therefore, it doesn't matter?

Comparable to any well-executed rolling dodge, Elden Ring's evasion sequence is enhanced with a brief tumbling leap at the beginning, offering a lively impression rather than plopping the player onto the ground. According to your loadout, the maneuver might appear super agile or moderately cumbersome, yet it's always quicker and smoother than the dodge rolls used in Dark Souls. Certainly, you may embed your big blade on the floor if you're carrying one, but that's your responsibility for not just playing ranged weapons (Just kidding — avoid using Elden Ring with a crossbow).

The Perfect Balance

Elden Ring's dodging mechanic creates the perfect balance between challenge and opportunity, providing prospects of success while endangering that very prospect at the slightest mistake. Learn this skill, and you'll be rewarded with not just victory, but gratification.