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For those who have experienced this acclaimed title, or nearly any third-person combat game, you're likely well-versed in the glorious mechanic called the “dodge roll.” This avoidance maneuver lets your avatar to carry out a forward, sideways, or backward somersault to dodge incoming harm and gain space from opponents. Sounds handy, doesn't it?

The dodge roll, however, has gotten plenty of criticism, and not just because of the rolling; it's been labeled foolish, a cop-out, and an unrealistic move — and occasionally, I concur. Picture me tumbling about local Doppler gangs in a well-known fantasy game — can't touch this Geralt! But the title's dodge roll is the dodge roll to top all dodge rolls evasion moves, and I'll tell you why.

Regarding this title, the designers identified an excellent method to counter all sentiments that the move is too easy: simply give each opponent unreasonable strength, increase it further, and every Tarnished who dares come near them will appreciate deeply for their dodge-roll ability, me included. When the stakes are this high, evading successfully seems like an accomplishment, not a cheat.

No other evasion method in Elden Ring matches this level of gratification and reliability, because swift moves don't cover much ground and defensive postures are readily overcome by powerful foes. One player advised leaping as the primary Elden Ring evasion method, but in addition to lacking ideal movement, I didn't see how taking a crushing hit could enhance my odds of beating enemies (lack of skill, maybe).

Mastering the Technique

But even though the rolling dodge offers respite in a famously difficult title, it requires practice. First of all, this title's evasion move only triggers a frame of protection once you stop pressing the dodge button, which prevents a quick, panicky escape from dire situations. Furthermore, while it might transport you away from foes, it's significantly more useful to use it as an opportunity to advance, preferably behind the opponent, and deliver attacks. And, finally, you must still understand and anticipate foe assaults, because rolling prematurely of an extended wind-up could conclude your immunity prior to the hit connecting… causing significant harm.

A Harmonious System

Although evasion-rolling in rapid sequence may look a bit ridiculous (kudos to the Witcher anew), this isn't truly feasible in the game. Naturally, that fails to transform it into a plausible combat move — exactly the reason it would be terrifying to experience it in a product like Kingdom Come: Deliverance — yet we're discussing a flashy fantasy title under discussion, therefore, it doesn't matter?

Similar to any respectable rolling dodge, the game's rolling animation is improved by a little somersault-y hop at the start, offering a lively impression instead of plopping the player downward. Depending on your gear, the maneuver might appear extremely nimble or moderately cumbersome, yet it's always faster and more fluid than the rolling dodges found in the earlier games. Admittedly, you will stick your large weapon in the dirt if you're carrying one, but that's your responsibility for failing to use ranged weapons (I'm joking — don't play Elden Ring with projectile weapons).

Ideal Equilibrium

Elden Ring's avoidance feature creates the perfect balance between challenge and opportunity, providing prospects of success while endangering that very prospect at the tiniest misstep. Learn this skill, and you'll be rewarded with not only success, but fulfillment.