Massive map, solid bosses, actual freedom of choice with builds and progression (story or exploration also), an interesting world, large range of weapons and spells that change gameplay mechanics, side stories and characters that keep you wanting more.

There is something about Elden Ring that really sucked me in and I couldn't stop playing. This is the first FromSoft game that I actually stuck with and I could revisit multiple times.

L + maidenless + no runes + touch grace + ungrafted + invaded + parried + scarlet Rot + one shot + You leveled dex

This game is pure nostalgia for me, so that will affect my rating. I played this game until my Xbox got the red ring of death, and I kept playing it when I managed to get a new one. The story is the same old GoW stuff: locust bad, kill locust, defeat big bad! The multiplayer and core gameplay are still what makes this game so fun for me. The move from host-based connection to dedicated servers made the game feel so smooth compared to the first 2 instalments. The range of new weapons all felt unique, while still keeping the flair of one’s from the older games. The cover system was smooth, wall-bouncing and mantling was like butter. Executions and other animations were top tier. The maps were generally great and each had unique mechanics present whether it was the weather or interactive segments of the map. The challenges gave new stats to look at for your gameplay. New game modes such as beast mode, and a new revamped horde mode also added more than just multiplayer VS as a way to spend your time.

Downsides came from slimmer character models actually having an effect on your hitbox and when the dedicated servers started to die, the lag could really hurt the smooth gameplay you’re used to. But I must’ve racked up 100s of hours on this game and it’s one of my highlights.