Elden Ring appears to be From Software's most ambitious project yet, which is saying something for the developer of the Dark Souls trilogy. Yet bringing in A Song of Ice and Fire author George R.R. Martin onto a project belies a scope for story and worldbuilding perhaps unprecedented. Combining the imaginations of both From Software and Martin for a single game almost seems like overkill, but a new revelation shed some light on this unique partnership. Elden Ring's universe will extend beyond a single game – beyond even video games.
Bandai Namco CEO Yasuo Miyakawa confirmed in a press release recently that the Elden Ring universe is planned to be used in non-gaming media. Miyakawa is intentionally vague about plans for the Elden Ring universe, but the implication seems to be that Elden Ring could expand into shows, movies, novels, comics, or other mediums. Elden Ring will appear "in a variety of other areas," according to Miyakawa.
Miyakawa's characterization of this expansion of the Elden Ring universe does offer some additional insight. He says that this expansion into other areas is being done to "deliver the worldview and charm of this title to our friends around the world." In other words, the Elden Ring game is still said to be the core experience behind Bandai Namco's plans. Whatever comes outside of that will be in an effort to expand on Elden Ring, in whatever form that may take.
To be fair, there could be an element to Miyakawa's comments lost in translation. While it appears to be an insinuation of Bandai Namco pursuing cross-media partnerships, that may not be his intention. He could be referring instead to merchandise or simply Bandai Namco's continued trailer releases for Elden Ring that explain more of what the game is all about. Suffice to say, it'd probably best to assume there's nothing in the works until Bandai Namco makes an official announcement.
Whether or not an animated cartoon or live-action adaptation of Elden Ring is coming, it's undoubtedly something fans would love to see. From Software's story and lore is endlessly discussed and loved by its fans, so a cross-media production that offers more of that, or a look at a From Software game that's never been seen before, would be in high demand.
The subject brings up the question of why George R.R. Martin is involved with a From Software project in the first place. As fun of an idea as it is, it's not like From Software needs help with its worldbuilding. However, if Elden Ring needed an adaptation or script for a show, George R.R. Martin could easily help provide that. Miyakawa's comments have led to some very interesting questions.
Elden Ring releases January 22, 2022, on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.