FromSoftware games such as Elden Ring, Sekiro, and the Dark Souls trilogy have a reputation for being notoriously difficult and challenging. However, what sets these games apart is the subtle use of humor that can be found throughout the gameplay experience. While creative director Hidetaka Miyazaki may not have set out to make these games “funny,” the unexpected laughs that players experience add an interesting layer to the overall gaming experience.
Miyazaki mentioned in an interview with Eurogamer that while some areas of their games are intentionally designed to be humorous, many of the moments that players find comedic are not calculated. For example, the sight of enemies ragdolling after being defeated or the repeated failures in overcoming a challenging boss can lead to moments of laughter, even in the midst of frustration.
The Misconception of Seriousness
One of the interesting aspects of FromSoftware’s games is how parts that were meant to be taken seriously or originated from a dark place are often misinterpreted as humorous by players. Miyazaki explained that the player’s reactions and the environment they are in can influence how certain aspects of the game are perceived. For instance, being crushed by a giant monkey multiple times can result in a mix of defeat and amusement, showcasing the fine line between challenge and comedy in these games.
Additionally, Miyazaki pointed out that the unintentional humor in their games can be compared to phenomena like happy-crying or nervous laughter, where the body tries to regulate intense emotions by producing an opposite feeling. This aspect adds depth to the player’s experience and highlights the complexity of emotions that can arise during gameplay.
The Success Behind FromSoftware’s Games
Despite the unpredicted comedic elements in their games, FromSoftware continues to create critically acclaimed titles. Miyazaki attributed the studio’s success to empowering and retaining talent within the team. By fostering a creative environment and allowing developers to explore new ideas, FromSoftware is able to consistently deliver innovative and engaging games to their audience.
While FromSoftware may not have set out to make their games “funny,” the unintentional humor found within titles like Elden Ring and the Dark Souls trilogy adds a unique dimension to the overall gaming experience. By blending challenging gameplay with moments of levity, FromSoftware has created a formula that keeps players coming back for more. The studio’s ability to balance seriousness with humor showcases their creativity and deep understanding of player emotions in the gaming industry.
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