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If you've played the popular action RPG, or just about any third-person combat game, chances are you're well-versed in the glorious technique known as the “rolling dodge.” This evasion technique allows your character to execute a forward, sideways, or backward tumble to dodge all incoming damage and move away from foes. Appears practical, right?

The dodge roll, nevertheless, has attracted plenty of criticism, and not just as a result of the somersault; it's been labeled foolish, a easy way out, and an implausible action — and in some cases, I agree. Picture me rolling around nearby enemy groups in another popular RPG — can't touch this Geralt! But Elden Ring's rolling dodge stands as the roll to outdo all previous dodge rolls, and I'll tell you why.

For this particular game, the developers found an excellent method to address all opinions that the move is too easy: just grant all foes unreasonable strength, multiply it, and all heroes who ventures close them will feel immensely thankful because of their evasion move, I'm no exception. With so much on the line, evading successfully feels like an achievement, rather than a cheap trick.

No alternative avoidance technique in this RPG comes close to this level of gratification and consistency, as quick dashes provide minimal movement and blocking attempts are readily overcome by powerful foes. A person once suggested hopping as the main Elden Ring dodging technique, but in addition to lacking perfect repositioning, It wasn't clear to me getting my skull smashed in could enhance my odds of overcoming challenges (skill issue, perhaps).

Learning the Move

But even though the rolling dodge provides relief in an otherwise brutal game, it requires practice. First of all, Elden Ring's dodge roll merely initiates a frame of protection after you let go of the dodge button, which stops a rapid, fearful withdrawal from dangerous scenarios. Additionally, although it may transport you away from foes, it's much better to employ it as a chance to get closer, optimally at their back, and land some hits. In conclusion, it remains necessary to comprehend and predict opponent moves, because rolling prematurely of an extended wind-up could conclude your immunity prior to the hit connecting… resulting in severe damage.

A Balanced Mechanic

Although evasion-rolling in fast repetition may look a bit ridiculous (credit to Geralt once more), this isn't really an option in this title. Certainly, that doesn't render it a realistic combat move — which is precisely why it would be pure horror to see it in a game like a realism-focused RPG — but this is a flashy fantasy title under discussion, therefore, it doesn't matter?

Similar to any respectable rolling dodge, Elden Ring's evasion sequence is spruced up with a brief tumbling leap at the commencement, offering a lively impression as opposed to plopping the player downward. Depending on your gear, the technique may seem incredibly quick or moderately cumbersome, yet it's always quicker and smoother than the rolling dodges found in the previous titles. Admittedly, you may embed your oversized sword into the ground when wielding such equipment, but that's your own fault for failing to use alternative arms (Just kidding — steer clear of the game with projectile weapons).

Optimal Harmony

This title's evasion system creates the perfect balance between difficulty and chance, granting chances of triumph while endangering that very prospect at the slightest mistake. Perfect this move, and you'll gain not only success, but satisfaction.