Why did Elden Ring beat God of War Ragnarok?

Why Did Elden Ring Beat God of War Ragnarok?

In the gaming world, 2022 was marked by the release of two highly anticipated games: God of War Ragnarok and Elden Ring. While both games received widespread acclaim, Elden Ring took home the crown as Game of the Year. So, what factors contributed to Elden Ring’s success over God of War Ragnarok? Let’s dive into the reasons behind this victory.

Creative Freedom and Non-Linearity

One of the key differences between the two games is their approach to storytelling and gameplay design. Elden Ring is known for its non-linear design, allowing players to explore the world of Lordran in a non-consecutive manner. This gives players the freedom to roam, discover secrets, and craft their own story arc. In contrast, God of War Ragnarok, while still a linear experience, is more focused on telling a set narrative and doesn’t offer the same level of exploration.

Elden Ring’s Exploration and Atmosphere

Speaking of exploration, Elden Ring’s world design is unparalleled. The game’s atmospheric and mysterious settings, combined with its dynamic soundtrack, create an immersive experience that draws players in. The world is teeming with life, whether it’s the eerie Silence and the grotesque Sceptrons or the beautiful, vibrant environments found in the Lands Between.

God of War Ragnarok’s Confining Environment

God of War Ragnarok, on the other hand, takes place in a relatively small environment, with the majority of the game taking place in Norse realms. While the combat is intense and the boss battles are memorable, the confinement of the environment can sometimes feel restrictive.

Length and Replay Value

God of War Ragnarok boasts an impressive main storyline, lasting around 15-20 hours. However, compared to Elden Ring, which offers over 30-40 hours of primary content, as well as numerous side quests and opportunities for exploration, the Norse sequel falls short.

God of War Ragnarok’s Limited Side Content

In terms of side quests and activities, God of War Ragnarok has few and far between. Elden Ring, on the other hand, has hundreds of side quests, known as "Lost Schemes," which provide an impressive level of replay value and keep players engaged.

Awards and Recognition

Let’s not forget about the awards. Elden Ring took home Game of the Year at the DICE Awards, the Golden Joystick Awards, and several other major gaming institutions. God of War Ragnarok, while a critically acclaimed game, did not secure the same level of accolades.

Kratos’s Limited Range of Options

Kratos, as the protagonist of God of War Ragnarok, often feels limited in his movements and abilities. Elden Ring’s Tarnished, on the other hand, has access to an extensive range of skills and abilities, which adds a layer of complexity and customization to the gameplay experience.

Boss Battles and Fight Choreography

Both games have memorable boss battles, but Elden Ring takes it to the next level. The fights are unpredictable, with an emphasis on strategy and player agency. God of War Ragnarok’s boss battles, while epic, are more streamlined and linear.

Tactical Depth and Player Freedom

Elden Ring’s combat is deep, with a variety of abilities, magic, and equipment that allows players to experiment with different playstyles. Kratos, on the other hand, has a limited range of options and combat techniques.

Community Reception and Impact

The game’s community reception is often overlooked, but it can play a significant role in the game’s overall success. Elden Ring’s community is incredibly passionate, with players creating content and sharing their experiences on platforms like YouTube and Twitch.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Elden Ring beat God of War Ragnarok for several reasons. Firstly, its non-linear design and creative freedom allowed for a more immersive and player-driven experience. The game’s exploration, atmosphere, and length were also unparalleled, offering a richer, more engaging experience. With hundreds of side quests and opportunities for replay, Elden Ring provides a wealth of content, keeping players engaged for countless hours.

In contrast, God of War Ragnarok, while still a great game, lacks the same level of non-linearity and creative freedom. Its smaller environment and limited side content may restrict players’ exploration and choice.

Ultimately, Elden Ring’s innovative design and vast open world make it the better game, even when compared to a polished, well-crafted like God of War Ragnarok.