FromSoftware's Rolling Dodge Deserves to Be Celebrated
For those who have experienced this acclaimed title, or just about any action-adventure title, you're probably well-versed in the glorious technique called the “dodge roll.” This evasion technique lets your avatar to carry out a front, lateral, or rearward somersault to evade all incoming damage and move away from the bad guy. Sounds handy, wouldn't you say?
The dodge roll, though, has received a lot of flak, and not just due to the tumbling; some have dubbed it unintelligent, a cheap tactic, and an implausible action — and occasionally, I agree. Picture me tumbling about hostile mobs in The Witcher 3 — can't touch this Geralt! But this game's dodge roll is the dodge roll to top all dodge rolls rolling dodges, and here's the reason.
Regarding this title, the designers identified a great way to address all opinions that the move is overly simple: simply give each opponent excessive power, triple that, and each player character who approaches them will feel immensely thankful for their dodge-roll ability, I'm no exception. Given the intense difficulty, pulling off a perfect dodge comes across as a triumph, not a cheat.
No alternative avoidance technique in Elden Ring approaches this sense of satisfaction and consistency, as quick dashes don't cover much ground and guard stances get quickly shattered by strong enemies. A person once suggested leaping as the primary game evasion method, but besides failing to offer ideal movement, I didn't see how getting my skull smashed in would improve my chances of beating enemies (skill issue, perhaps).
Perfecting the Skill
While the dodge roll offers respite in an otherwise brutal game, it demands ability. First of all, the game's evasion move only triggers a frame of protection once you let go of the roll control, which stops a hasty, frantic retreat from perilous circumstances. Moreover, although it may carry you off from enemies, it's far more effective to employ it as a chance to get closer, optimally at their back, and deliver attacks. And, finally, you must still understand and anticipate enemy attacks, since evading too early of a long charging animation could conclude your immunity before the blow lands… causing significant harm.
A Well-Designed Feature
While dodge-rolling in quick succession could appear somewhat silly (kudos to the Witcher anew), this isn't truly feasible in the game. Naturally, that fails to transform it into a plausible fighting maneuver — exactly the reason it would be terrifying to see it in a game like Kingdom Come: Deliverance — however, this is a dazzling imaginative experience being considered, therefore, it doesn't matter?
Similar to any respectable evasion move, Elden Ring's evasion sequence is enhanced with a brief tumbling leap at the commencement, providing a dynamic sensation rather than dropping the character on the floor. According to your loadout, the technique may seem extremely nimble or relatively slow, however, it's consistently swifter and more seamless than the dodge rolls used in Dark Souls. True, you will stick your oversized sword in the dirt if you're carrying one, but that's your responsibility for not just playing ranged weapons (In jest — avoid using the game with a crossbow).
The Perfect Balance
This title's evasion system forms an optimal harmony between obstacle and possibility, providing prospects of success while risking the loss of that hope at the tiniest misstep. Master this technique, and you'll obtain more than triumph, but gratification.
