This well-designed but problematic role-playing game is the result of a collaboration between developer From Software — known for their famously difficult “Dark Souls” series — and fantasy novelist George R. R. Martin, the man behind the mega-franchise “Game of Thrones.” Its intense action involves a struggle for control of the titular ornament. Players can opt out of at least some of the unsavory mayhem and disturbing images they might otherwise encounter, including blood effects, dead bodies and dismembered limbs. And sexual elements are almost entirely absent. But grown gamers intent on appreciating this title’s incredible open-world design and immersive gameplay will still have to ignore its extra-biblical mythos and be willing to engage with its graphic visuals. Playable on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series and Windows. Gory combat violence, gruesome images, nonscriptural religious themes, partial nudity, occasional crude language. The Catholic News Service classification is L — limited adult audience, material whose problematic content many adults would find troubling. The Entertainment Software Rating Board rating is M — mature.
Elden Ring
