What are the Lands Between Based On?
The world of Elden Ring, a fantasy dark fantasy open-world game developed by FromSoftware, is a land of wonder and exploration, filled with rich history, lore, and characters. At the heart of the game lies the concept of the Lands Between, a mystical realm filled with mysteries and secrets. So, what are the Lands Between based on? Let’s dive into the fascinating world of Elden Ring to explore the inspiration behind the Lands Between.
Early Beginnings: Fantasy World-Building
According to the developers of Elden Ring, the world-building process began with creating a fantasy realm inspired by various mythologies and cultural influences. They drew inspiration from Japanese history and literature, particularly the stories of the Warring States period (Bold: Wars and battles over control and territory), medieval European literature, and Arthurian legends. These elements have created a unique setting with distinct cultures, societies, and landscapes.
Similarities to Real-Life Inspiration
The Lands Between exhibit distinct similarities to the Battle of Sekigahara (1600 AD), a decisive battle that brought an end to Japan’s Warring States period. The game’s lore explores the consequences of the Shattering (or the Calamity), an event that reshaped the Lands Between’s geography, history, and society. These elements were inspired by historical accounts of the devastating aftermath of World War II in Japan and the struggles to rebuild society.
Similarities to Japan’s Historical Empires
The Darkwraith cults in the game evoke memories of Japan’s Shogunates and Samurai classes, with their distinct societal hierarchy and cultural influences. Great Runes play a significant role in Elden Ring’s storyline, reminiscent of Japanese cultural items like sake, rice paddies, and paper scrolls, which held importance in various aspects of society. Even the game’s landscapes have similarities to Japanese geographical formations, such as Honshu’s mountainous regions.
Comparisons to the Iberian Peninsula and Other Landscapes
Geographical features like Castlantic, with its resemblance to Lisbon’s Seven Hills, hint at European influence. Mausoleums, Citadel Ruins, and other landscapes, reminiscent of those in Western Europe, underscore the region’s complex cultural exchange throughout history. Meanwhile, areas like Analan Palace evoke Angkor Wat’s mystical and regal architecture. Confluence region, in particular, highlights a rich cultural fusion inspired by Asia Minor and European empires.
Myths, Lore, and Cosmology
Elden Ring’s cosmology revolves around the concept of _radon, with energies radiating from mysterious orbs that have influenced the land for centuries. Mythologies rooted in various myths and legends, from Asian and European origins, inspired the creation of entities and beings like Fanning Fates ( Japanese yōkai-inspired oni creatures). Lore surrounding Runes of the Ancients, containing ancient knowledge and arcane powers, stems from Japanese mythology (Shintoism and Buddhist tales). Demigods and Warborn Gods**, drawing strength from natural forces and magic, exhibit similarities to mythical entities across various cultures, like Greece’s Olympians.
In-Game World Inspiration
Some interesting details:
- Mountain Ridges: Inspired by Japanese and European mountainous landscapes, these areas can serve as fortifications, offering strategic advantages or even shelter from storm-worshiping armies.
- Pockets of Civilization: Alliances formed between city-states and smaller settlements are influenced by Asian trade network traditions.
- Dark Cults: Darkwraith-like doomsday cults, with hollow spirits and dark prophecies, hint at esoteric beliefs rooted in world mythology and legends.
- Gaming References: Some game areas bear titles inspired by ancient cities like Azeroth’s Aetherspace, hinting at Game of Thrones’ inspirations and echoing European lore.
Final Conclusions
In summary, Elden Ring’s world is built upon various influences: Japanese history and culture, European literature, mythology from Asian and Western roots, as well as influences from African and South Asian mythology and legends. Landscapes, mythologies, cultures, and architectures come together to create the fantastical world of Elden Ring’s Lands Between.
[Here’s a short Table 1 to provide an overall summary]
Table 1: Sources of Inspiration for the Lands Between
| Sources of Inspiration | Concept | Details | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Japanese History & Culture | Shattering event | Warring States period (1600s AD), Samurai culture, paper scrolls | Battle of Sekigahara |
| European Literature & History | Landscapes and architecture | Inspired by Game of Thrones (TV series) and Europe’s cultural exchanges | Angkor Wat architecture, Roman ruins |
| Asian & Western Mythologies | Entities & Lore | Yōkai-like creatures, onigu mythology | Olympians (Greek myth) and hollow spirits |
| World-wide Inspirations | Miscellaneous | Arcane powers, Runes, city-state alliances | Inspired by: ancient cities (e.g., Azeroth, Aetherspace); dark prophecy & prophecies, hollow spirits |
The unique blend of influences creates an engaging experience, offering numerous points for exploration, intrigue, and adventure in Elden Ring’s world, Lands Between.