Elden Ring, the highly anticipated title developed by FromSoftware, promises players a challenging yet exhilarating experience unlike any other. Combining elements from Dark Souls and open-world titles, Elden Ring seeks to test the resolve and skill of players while immersing them in the Lands Between. Such dynamic gameplay proves to be compelling but demanding nonetheless. Alone, journeying across the Lands Between is an arduous and seemingly impossible endeavor. However, such a venture would be much more feasible and far less strenuous alongside fellow players.
Fortunately, Elden Ring allows players to join forces and traverse across the Lands Between together. Working alongside one another, players can coordinate their efforts to better fend against the overwhelming threats found throughout. The benefits of playing with others are innumerable, making cooperative play a much sought-after feature by players. But how does one go about playing with others? Luckily, it is a straightforward process with some important considerations. Here is how one can play with friends.
Turn On Online Mode
Before players can join or invite another to play with them, they must have the appropriate settings. Upon starting the game, players can choose to play in offline or online mode. Players wanting to play alone for some time and hone their Elden Ring skills should choose the former. Players seeking to jump into multiplayer immediately should choose the former. Regardless of their choice, players always have the opportunity to change between offline and online mode whenever they see fit.
To do so, they must go into their menu, select Systems, and go to the Network tab, where they will find the option to switch between offline or online mode. However, upon switching, players must restart their game for changes to take effect. Regardless, online mode is required to play with friends or random players.
Obtain A Furlcalling Finger Remedy
To invite other players, one must obtain a Furlcalling Finger Remedy, an inexpensive item that allows one to see summoning circles. This item is exceedingly easy to acquire as it can be crafted, harvested from enemies, or bought from a vendor.
To create a Furlcalling Finger Remedy, players must obtain two Erdleaf Flowers, a material common in the Lands Between. Alternatively, they may acquire this material from common enemies or buy it from a merchant instead. If one plans to invite more than a single player, they must have a Furlcalling Finger Remedy for each. Although considering the remarkable ease of acquiring this item, they will likely have an abundance.
Summon Your Friends
Now, players will have everything they need to invite their friends — or strangers should they wish. First, play must ensure that they are in the same area of the game. Once that is done, the guest must use the Tarnished's Furled Finger, an item granted to every player that produces summoning circles. This item essentially acts as a request to join another's game. When the guest uses the Tarnished's Furled Finger, the host must simultaneously use a Furlcalling Finger Remedy to see their summoning circles. Once these summoning circles appear, they must interact with them and bring them into their game.
Repeat this process for each player that intends on joining. It is important to note that various things can end multiplayer games. If the host or guest player dies, they must repeat the process to rejoin a game. If a host wishes to remove a guest, they must use the Finger Severer item granted to every player. Defeating a boss or mini-boss will end a multiplayer game entirely, requiring players to repeat the process. So, it is wise for the host to have an excess of Furlcalling Finger Remedies to keep multiplayer games going. However, that is not to say that Elden Ring players should be reckless and depend solely on others' capabilities instead of theirs.
Now Have Fun
Whether playing with friends or strangers, having others to play with makes Elden Ring a much more enjoyable experience. You can coordinate your characters, formulate strategies, and cooperate to defeat the most imposing threats of the Lands Between.
Alternatively, players can compete against one another in competitive events known as Invasions. Rather than working alongside the host, guests — better known as invaders — will work to kill them. Friendly competition is always welcome in these games, as it allows for fun yet deadly tests of might. Whether working with or against fellow players, multiplayer offers a unique way to experience Elden Ring.
Elden Ring is now available for PC, PlayStation 4 and 5, and Xbox One and Series X|S