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Having spent time with Elden Ring, or just about any 3D action game, chances are you're acquainted with the fantastic technique referred to as the “dodge roll.” This defensive move lets your avatar to execute a front, lateral, or rearward somersault to avoid any enemy attacks and gain space from opponents. Sounds handy, wouldn't you say?

The dodge roll, however, has attracted plenty of criticism, and not only as a result of the somersault; it's been labeled dumb, a cheap tactic, and an unbelievable technique — and sometimes, I concur. You should see me tumbling about local Doppler gangs in another popular RPG — can't touch this Geralt! But this game's dodge roll is the dodge roll to outdo all previous evasion moves, and here's the reason.

In Elden Ring's case, the designers identified a clever approach to counter all sentiments that the move is too easy: just grant each opponent excessive power, multiply it, and every Tarnished who dares come near them will appreciate deeply for their dodge-roll ability, I'm no exception. With so much on the line, evading successfully seems like an accomplishment, rather than a cheap trick.

No other evasion method in this RPG approaches this sense of satisfaction and dependability, as quick dashes provide minimal movement and blocking attempts get quickly shattered by powerful foes. Someone once recommended leaping as the primary Elden Ring evasion method, but aside from not providing ideal movement, It wasn't clear to me receiving a fatal blow could enhance my odds of defeating bosses (inexperience, possibly).

Mastering the Technique

While this evasion move grants reprieve in a famously difficult title, it demands ability. To begin with, this title's dodge roll just activates a period of immunity once you stop pressing the evasion key, which stops a rapid, fearful withdrawal from perilous circumstances. Additionally, while it might transport you away from foes, it's far more effective to use it as an opportunity to advance, optimally at their back, and strike blows. And, finally, you must still grasp and foresee enemy attacks, since evading too early of a long charging animation might terminate your protection before the blow lands… causing significant harm.

A Harmonious System

Although evasion-rolling in quick succession might seem rather absurd (credit to Geralt once more), this isn't truly feasible in the game. Certainly, that still doesn't make it a plausible battle technique — the very cause why it would be terrifying to see it in a game like a historical simulation — however, this is a spectacular magical game we're talking about, thus why worry?

Comparable to any well-executed evasion move, the game's evasion sequence is enhanced with a little somersault-y hop at the beginning, providing a dynamic sensation instead of plopping the player downward. Depending on your gear, the maneuver might appear extremely nimble or moderately cumbersome, yet it's always quicker and smoother than the rolling dodges used in Dark Souls. Admittedly, you may embed your large weapon into the ground when wielding such equipment, but that's your responsibility for avoiding ranged weapons (I'm joking — avoid using Elden Ring using ranged options).

Optimal Harmony

The game's dodging mechanic establishes an ideal equilibrium between challenge and opportunity, providing prospects of success while risking the loss of that hope at the slightest mistake. Learn this skill, and you'll be rewarded with not just victory, but gratification.