For those who have experienced the popular action RPG, or nearly any action-adventure title, you're likely familiar with the fantastic feature known as the “evasion roll.” This evasion technique enables your hero to execute a front, lateral, or rearward somersault to evade incoming harm and move away from foes. Sounds handy, wouldn't you say?
The dodge roll, though, has attracted significant backlash, not simply due to the tumbling; it's been called unintelligent, a cop-out, and an unbelievable technique — and sometimes, I agree. You should see me rolling around nearby enemy groups in a well-known fantasy game — untouchable! But this game's dodge roll represents the evasion to surpass every other dodge rolls, and I'll tell you why.
For this particular game, the designers identified an excellent method to counter all sentiments claiming the maneuver is too easy: merely bestow all foes unreasonable strength, triple that, and all heroes who ventures close them will feel immensely thankful because of their evasion move, me included. When the stakes are this high, pulling off a perfect dodge seems like an accomplishment, instead of an unfair advantage.
No other evasion method in this RPG matches this sense of satisfaction and dependability, as quick dashes provide minimal movement and blocking attempts are easily broken by tough opponents. Someone once recommended leaping as the primary Elden Ring evasion method, but besides failing to offer optimal placement, I didn't see how receiving a fatal blow could enhance my odds of overcoming challenges (lack of skill, maybe).
Perfecting the Skill
While the rolling dodge offers respite in an otherwise brutal game, it isn't without skill. Firstly, Elden Ring's rolling dodge just activates a period of immunity after you let go of the evasion key, which hinders a rapid, fearful withdrawal from dangerous scenarios. Additionally, although it may transport you away from opponents, it's significantly more useful to use it as an opportunity to move nearer, optimally at their back, and land some hits. In conclusion, you must still understand and anticipate opponent moves, as dodging at the start of a prolonged preparation may end your invincibility prior to the hit connecting… which will seriously hurt.
A Harmonious System
Even though rolling-dodging in quick succession may look a bit ridiculous (give it up for Geralt again), this isn't truly feasible in this title. Certainly, that still doesn't make it a plausible fighting maneuver — which is precisely why it would be terrifying to see it in a game like a historical simulation — however, this is a flashy fantasy title being considered, therefore, it doesn't matter?
Like any proper rolling dodge, this title's rolling animation is spruced up with a little somersault-y hop at the commencement, providing a dynamic sensation as opposed to plopping the player on the floor. According to your loadout, the move can feel incredibly quick or somewhat sluggish, however, it's consistently faster and more fluid than the evasion moves used in the earlier games. True, you may embed your oversized sword into the ground while equipped with it, but that's your own fault for avoiding ranged weapons (I'm joking — avoid using the game with a crossbow).
Optimal Harmony
The game's evasion system forms an optimal harmony between obstacle and possibility, providing prospects of success while risking the loss of that hope at the slightest mistake. Master this technique, and you'll gain not only success, but satisfaction.
