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Having spent time with the popular action RPG, or nearly any 3D action game, chances are you're well-versed in the glorious mechanic called the “rolling dodge.” This avoidance maneuver enables your hero to carry out a forward, sideways, or backward tumble to avoid any enemy attacks and create distance from the bad guy. Appears practical, wouldn't you say?

The evasion roll, though, has received plenty of criticism, and not only due to the tumbling; it's been called dumb, a easy way out, and an unbelievable technique — and sometimes, I agree. Just imagine me rolling around local Doppler gangs in The Witcher 3 — untouchable! But Elden Ring's rolling dodge stands as the roll to top all dodge rolls evasion moves, and let me explain.

Regarding this title, the developers found a clever approach to respond to all views suggesting the technique is not challenging enough: merely bestow every enemy unreasonable strength, multiply it, and all heroes who dares come near them will appreciate deeply because of their evasion move, myself included. With so much on the line, successfully rolling to victory comes across as a triumph, not a cheat.

No other evasion method in the game matches this level of gratification and dependability, as quick dashes don't cover much ground and blocking attempts are readily overcome by strong enemies. A person once suggested leaping as the primary Elden Ring dodging technique, but besides failing to offer optimal placement, I didn't see how taking a crushing hit might boost my prospects of beating enemies (inexperience, possibly).

Mastering the Technique

While this evasion move grants reprieve in an incredibly challenging experience, it isn't without skill. Firstly, the game's dodge roll only triggers a window of invulnerability following you let go of the evasion key, which prevents a rapid, fearful withdrawal from dire situations. Additionally, while it might move you aside from opponents, it's far more effective to utilize it as a moment to move nearer, ideally to their rear, and land some hits. And, finally, you must still comprehend and predict opponent moves, as dodging at the start of a prolonged preparation might terminate your protection ahead of the attack striking… causing significant harm.

A Well-Designed Feature

While dodge-rolling in fast repetition might seem rather absurd (kudos to the Witcher anew), this isn't truly feasible in the game. Of course, that fails to transform it into a realistic fighting maneuver — the very cause why it would be dreadful to witness it in a title like Kingdom Come: Deliverance — but this is a flashy fantasy title under discussion, thus why worry?

Comparable to any well-executed rolling dodge, the game's rolling animation is enhanced with a little somersault-y hop at the beginning, offering a lively impression instead of placing the avatar downward. Based on your equipment, the move can feel extremely nimble or somewhat sluggish, however, it's consistently quicker and smoother than the rolling dodges found in the previous titles. Admittedly, you may embed your oversized sword into the ground while equipped with it, but that's on you for avoiding a crossbow (Just kidding — steer clear of the game with projectile weapons).

The Perfect Balance

This title's avoidance feature forms an optimal harmony between obstacle and possibility, providing prospects of success while risking the loss of that hope at the slightest mistake. Master this technique, and you'll gain not just victory, but satisfaction.