Elden Ring: Why is Everyone Hostile?

In the realm of Elden Ring, a vast and perilous world, you will encounter a myriad of hostile entities that will relentlessly attempt to thwart your progress. From lowly foot soldiers to formidable demigods, the inhabitants of the Lands Between seem to harbor an unyielding animosity towards your presence. But what drives this widespread hostility, and what can you do to navigate this treacherous landscape? Let us delve into the reasons behind the pervasive aggression and explore strategies for overcoming it.

The Shattering: A Catalyst for Conflict

The cataclysmic event known as the Shattering, which fractured the Elden Ring and plunged the Lands Between into chaos, has played a pivotal role in shaping the hostile nature of its denizens. The shattering of the Elden Ring not only disrupted the natural order but also unleashed a wave of despair and corruption that infiltrated the hearts of many.

Quote: "The Shattering shattered more than just the Elden Ring; it shattered the very fabric of society." - Renalla, Queen of the Full Moon

Breakdown of Hostility

The Shattering has manifested in the following ways, contributing to the hostile environment:

• Loss of Guidance: The shattering of the Elden Ring deprived the Lands Between of the guiding light that had once kept its inhabitants in harmony. Without a clear purpose or moral compass, many have succumbed to chaos and become driven by primal instincts.
• Spread of Corruption: The shattering also released a corrupting influence, known as the Scarlet Rot, which has infected vast regions of the Lands Between. Those touched by the Scarlet Rot often become warped and hostile, losing any semblance of empathy or reason.
• Fractured Alliances: The Shattering destroyed established alliances and sowed distrust among the inhabitants of the Lands Between. Factions that were once united are now at odds, viewing each other as threats to their survival.

The Nature of Aggression

Beyond the Shattering, the inherent nature of the denizens of the Lands Between also contributes to their hostility. The following factors play a role:

• Instinctual Fear: Many creatures in Elden Ring are driven by primal instincts, including fear and territoriality. Your presence in their environment may be perceived as a threat, triggering an aggressive response.
• Competition for Resources: The Lands Between is a harsh and unforgiving environment, and resources are scarce. Inhabitants may view you as a competitor for food, water, or shelter, leading them to attack you out of desperation.
• Corruption: As mentioned earlier, the Scarlet Rot and other corrupting influences can warp the minds of those it infects, instilling within them a violent and irrational hatred.

Strategies for Overcoming Hostility

While the Lands Between is a hostile place, there are strategies you can employ to mitigate the aggression you encounter:

Tips and Tricks

• Stealth: Utilize stealth mechanics to avoid detection by enemies. This is especially effective against large or powerful foes that may pose a significant threat in open combat.
• Diplomacy: Certain NPCs in Elden Ring can be interacted with through dialogue options. By engaging in conversation and choosing the right responses, you may be able to avoid confrontations or even gain allies.
• Itemization: Equip yourself with items that reduce hostility, such as the Fetid Pot or the Perfume of Peace. These items can temporarily pacify enemies, giving you the opportunity to pass them by or initiate diplomacy.
• Summoning Help: You can summon Spirit Ashes or other players to assist you in combat. Having additional allies can distract enemies and make it easier to overcome hostile encounters.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Attacking on Sight: Avoid attacking enemies indiscriminately. Observe their behavior before engaging. Some enemies may be passive or even friendly if approached with caution.
• Overextending: Do not engage with more enemies than you can handle. If you find yourself overwhelmed, retreat and regroup rather than risking death.
• Underestimating the Environment: Pay attention to your surroundings. The environment can provide you with advantages, such as cover or escape routes. Utilize these elements to your advantage in combat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why are all the enemies in Elden Ring so strong?
A: The difficulty of enemies in Elden Ring is designed to challenge players and create a sense of accomplishment when overcoming them. The game encourages exploration and strategic decision-making to overcome even the most formidable foes.

Q: Can I avoid fighting every enemy I encounter?
A: While it is impossible to avoid all encounters, stealth and diplomacy can help you navigate the Lands Between more peacefully. By observing enemy behavior and engaging in dialogue, you may be able to bypass some confrontations.

Q: Are there any friendly NPCs in Elden Ring?
A: Yes, there are a number of friendly NPCs who can provide assistance or offer valuable information. Seek out these NPCs at various locations throughout the game to build relationships and gain their support.

Q: How can I reduce my hostility towards enemies?
A: Certain items and gameplay mechanics can reduce hostility. Equip Fetid Pots or Perfume of Peace, and avoid attacking enemies on sight. Additionally, completing certain NPC questlines can lower the hostility of specific factions or individuals.

Q: Why do some enemies attack me when others don't?
A: Enemy behavior varies depending on their individual characteristics, faction, and location. Some enemies may be more aggressive towards certain character types or weapons. Observe enemy behavior and adapt your approach accordingly.

Q: Can I negotiate with hostile NPCs?
A: While direct negotiations are not always possible, certain dialogue options may allow you to de-escalate hostile situations. Be mindful of your choice of words and avoid provoking enemies unnecessarily.

Q: How do I deal with enemy groups?
A: When facing multiple enemies, prioritize eliminating ranged attackers first to reduce incoming damage. Utilize area-of-effect attacks to damage multiple enemies simultaneously. Consider using the environment to your advantage by luring enemies into traps or separating them.

Q: What are the most effective weapons against hostile enemies?
A: The effectiveness of weapons in Elden Ring depends on the enemy's resistances and weaknesses. Research enemy weaknesses and select weapons that exploit those vulnerabilities. Additionally, consider the range and speed of weapons to adapt to different combat situations.