Is Bloodborne connected to Berserk?
The dark and eerie worlds of Bloodborne and Berserk have often been debated to be connected, but is there a tangible link between the two? While the surface level differences might suggest otherwise, a closer examination reveals intriguing parallels that warrant a deeper exploration. In this article, we’ll delve into the similarities, symbolism, and motifs shared between Bloodborne and Berserk, solidifying the connection between the two dark fantasy franchises.
Inspiration and Shared Themes
Kentaro Miura, the creator of Berserk, has cited the influence of H.P. Lovecraft’s works on his series. Bloodborne’s director, Hidetaka Miyazaki, has also acknowledged the inspiration he drew from Lovecraftian horror. This shared inspiration might have unintentionally seeded a connection between the two series. Other shared themes include:
- Medieval Europe-inspired settings: Both Bloodborne and Berserk are set in medieval-inspired worlds with dark, gothic architectures, eerie landscapes, and a sense of foreboding.
- Symbolism of the Hand of God: In both series, a powerful, disembodied hand is a symbol of authority, control, and divinity. This shared symbol adds to the notion of a connection between the two.
- Monsters and Beasthood: Bloodborne’s gruesome creatures, such as the Cuckoo and the Fostering Father, can be compared to Berserk’s terrifying apostles and fiends. This theme explores the blurring of human and beast.
In-Game Evidence and Plot Parallels
- Hunter’s Mark and the Brand of Sacrifice: The Hunter’s Mark in Bloodborne bears an uncanny resemblance to the Brand of Sacrifice in Berserk. Both symbols serve as a mark of transformation and a curse that affects those who bear it.
- Cataclysmic Events and Corruption: Both series feature cataclysmic events that result in widespread corruption and degeneration. In Bloodborne, the First Flame’s extinguishing leads to the rise of twisted creatures, while in Berserk, the Eclipse event drives humans mad and creates terrifying abominations.
- Guts and the White-Hooded Figure: Guts, the main protagonist of Berserk, wears a distinctive white-hooded robe. Similarly, the Hunter in Bloodborne, The Undying King, is often shrouded in a hooded, white robe-like attire, hinting at a shared symbolism.
The Soulsborne Connection
The FromSoftware team behind Bloodborne has often spoken about their inspiration from classic Japanese games, including Demon’s Souls and Dark Souls. As a result, there might be an unspoken connection between the two series:
- Grass-Cutting Scythe and Dragonslayer Sword: Both games feature powerful swords, such as the Grass-Cutting Scythe in Demon’s Souls and the Dragonslayer Sword in Dark Souls. These similarities might imply a shared conceptual foundation for the weapons, further reinforcing the connection.
Theories and Interpretations
While the evidence above can be seen as circumstantial, it suggests a possible connection between Bloodborne and Berserk:
- Shared Lovecraftian Inspirations: Lovecraft’s works, an obvious influence on both series, provide a common denominator.
- Medieval Fantasy Influences: Both series borrow from medieval fantasy tropes, which further reinforces their connection.
- In-Game Easter Eggs and References: If you carefully examine the worlds and stories of both games, you might discover Easter eggs or references that intentionally nod to each other, solidifying the connection.
Conclusion
The relationship between Bloodborne and Berserk might be more intricate than initially thought. With shared inspirations, similar themes, and symbolic parallels, the connection between the two dark fantasy series cannot be denied. Whether the developers of Bloodborne deliberately drew from Berserk or the two series evolved through a common cultural and creative lineage, the link is undeniable.
Final Thoughts
Explore the eerie world of Yharnam, a city plagued by monsters and corruption, while immersing yourself in the grimdark atmosphere of Berserk. Unravel the mysteries of both worlds, uncovering the similarities and symbols that connect the two dark fantasy franchises.
References:
- Miura, Kentaro. Berserk manga.
- Miyazaki, Hidetaka. Bloodborne (Game). FromSoftware.