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Having spent time with the popular action RPG, or just about any 3D action game, you're likely acquainted with the glorious mechanic known as the “evasion roll.” This defensive move allows your character to carry out a forward, sideways, or backward ground roll to avoid all incoming damage and gain space from foes. Appears practical, doesn't it?

This rolling move, though, has received plenty of criticism, and not only as a result of the somersault; it's been labeled foolish, a cheap tactic, and an implausible action — and in some cases, I see the point. Just imagine me tumbling about hostile mobs in The Witcher 3 — can't touch this Geralt! But this game's rolling dodge is the dodge roll to surpass every other rolling dodges, and I'll tell you why.

In Elden Ring's case, the creators discovered a great way to counter all sentiments that the move is not challenging enough: just grant all foes unreasonable strength, multiply it, and all heroes who ventures close them will appreciate deeply because of their evasion move, me included. With so much on the line, successfully rolling to victory comes across as a triumph, rather than a cheap trick.

No alternative avoidance technique in Elden Ring matches this sense of satisfaction and consistency, since rapid sprints don't cover much ground and blocking attempts are readily overcome by powerful foes. A person once suggested hopping as the main game evasion method, but in addition to lacking perfect repositioning, I didn't see how receiving a fatal blow would improve my chances of overcoming challenges (lack of skill, maybe).

Perfecting the Skill

While the dodge roll offers respite in an incredibly challenging experience, it requires practice. First of all, the game's rolling dodge only triggers a window of invulnerability once you release the roll control, which hinders a rapid, fearful withdrawal from dangerous scenarios. Additionally, although it may carry you off from opponents, it's far more effective to employ it as a chance to get closer, preferably behind the opponent, and land some hits. In conclusion, it remains necessary to comprehend and predict enemy attacks, because rolling prematurely of an extended wind-up may end your invincibility prior to the hit connecting… causing significant harm.

A Balanced Mechanic

Although evasion-rolling in quick succession may look a bit ridiculous (give it up for Geralt again), this isn't truly feasible in the game. Certainly, that still doesn't make it a believable fighting maneuver — exactly the reason it would be dreadful to see it in a game like a realism-focused RPG — yet we're discussing a flashy fantasy title under discussion, so who cares?

Similar to any respectable rolling dodge, the game's evasion sequence is spruced up with a brief tumbling leap at the start, giving it an energetic feel as opposed to placing the avatar on the floor. Depending on your gear, the maneuver might appear incredibly quick or relatively slow, yet it's always swifter and more seamless than the dodge rolls used in Dark Souls. Admittedly, you will stick your big blade on the floor while equipped with it, but that's your own fault for failing to use a crossbow (Just kidding — avoid using Elden Ring with a crossbow).

Optimal Harmony

Elden Ring's avoidance feature creates the perfect balance between difficulty and chance, offering hope of victory while threatening to take that hope away at the slightest mistake. Master this technique, and you'll gain more than triumph, but fulfillment.