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If you've played this acclaimed title, or just about any third-person combat game, chances are you're familiar with the wonderful mechanic called the “rolling dodge.” This defensive move allows your character to execute a front, lateral, or rearward tumble to dodge all incoming damage and create distance from the bad guy. Seems useful, doesn't it?

The evasion roll, however, has attracted a lot of flak, not simply because of the rolling; it's been labeled unintelligent, a cheap tactic, and an unrealistic move — and in some cases, I see the point. Just imagine me rolling around local Doppler gangs in The Witcher 3 — can't touch this Geralt! But this game's rolling dodge stands as the roll to outdo all previous rolling dodges, and I'll tell you why.

In Elden Ring's case, the designers identified an excellent method to counter all sentiments claiming the maneuver is overly simple: merely bestow each opponent excessive power, multiply it, and all heroes who ventures close them will be eternally grateful because of their evasion move, myself included. With so much on the line, evading successfully feels like an achievement, not a cheat.

No other evasion method in this RPG comes close to this sense of satisfaction and reliability, as quick dashes don't cover much ground and defensive postures are readily overcome by strong enemies. One player advised leaping as the primary Elden Ring avoidance strategy, but in addition to lacking optimal placement, I didn't see how getting my skull smashed in could enhance my odds of overcoming challenges (skill issue, perhaps).

Mastering the Technique

Although the dodge roll offers respite in an otherwise brutal game, it demands ability. Firstly, the game's dodge roll just activates a frame of protection after you let go of the roll control, which prevents a hasty, frantic retreat from dangerous scenarios. Furthermore, while it might move you aside from enemies, it's far more effective to use it as an opportunity to move nearer, optimally at their back, and strike blows. Lastly, you still need comprehend and predict foe assaults, as dodging at the start of an extended wind-up could conclude your immunity prior to the hit connecting… which will seriously hurt.

A Balanced Mechanic

While dodge-rolling in quick succession might seem rather absurd (kudos to the Witcher anew), this isn't practically possible in this title. Naturally, that fails to transform it into a plausible battle technique — which is precisely why it would be terrifying to experience it in a product like a realism-focused RPG — but this is a flashy fantasy title under discussion, so who cares?

Comparable to any well-executed evasion move, this title's dodge motion is spruced up with a brief tumbling leap at the commencement, offering a lively impression rather than placing the avatar onto the ground. Depending on your gear, the technique may seem extremely nimble or relatively slow, but it remains swifter and more seamless than the evasion moves featured in the previous titles. Admittedly, you could plant your large weapon in the dirt while equipped with it, but that's your own fault for failing to use alternative arms (In jest — avoid using Elden Ring using ranged options).

Optimal Harmony

This title's dodging mechanic establishes an ideal equilibrium between obstacle and possibility, granting chances of triumph while risking the loss of that hope at the tiniest misstep. Master this technique, and you'll be rewarded with not only success, but fulfillment.