Elden Ring 'Backstab' buff after latest patch met with backlash, game becoming Dark Souls 3 players say

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Elden Ring, the action role-playing game developed by FromSoftware and published by Bandai Namco Entertainment, has recently received a new patch (v1.10).

While this patch aimed to bring about balancing changes to PvP, PvE, and co-op experiences, it also introduced a highly controversial change, a significant ‘buff’ to the ‘Backstab’ move.

This change has ignited a storm of criticism among the player community, drawing comparisons to the infamous Dark Souls 3 Backstab meta that players wish to avoid (1,2,3).

Elden Ring boasts a vast array of combat mechanics, including a variety of ways to score critical hits.

Unlike previous games, critical hits can only be executed under specific conditions, making them a skill-based element of gameplay rather than a matter of chance.

The return of Backstab in Elden Ring due to the buff, has sparked fears that the game may head down a path where ‘sweat lords’ continuously fishing for Backstabs, seeking cheap and easy victories.

This scenario threatens to detract from the broader gameplay experience, as players may feel compelled to rely solely on Backstab attacks to secure wins.

I been doing a souls series run with a friend. Got constantly invaded im anor londo. sadly ever invasion was just people trying to backstab fish. Was real unfun watching everyone cling to the same trick. Makes me sad for returning to elden ring.
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ChaseTheBro just lost his mind a little I think Can’t wait to see him chain backstabs like the good old days probably Oro is happier now too:-)
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The recent ‘buff’ to the Backstab move has created an imbalance in the game, leading to a significant disparity in the fight between players.

With Backstabs dealing a substantial damage to an opponent’s health, combat scenarios can quickly become one-sided, undermining the tactical depth the game initially aimed to offer.

Aside from the Backstab buff, the patch also included nerfs to the Bloodhound Step (BHS) and Quickstep. Now, some consider the latter to be nearly useless, and the former as the new Quickstep.

Only thing im annoyed about is that quickstep is practically useless and bhs is the new quickstep now
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As players express their concerns about the potential return of a Backstab focused meta reminiscent of Dark Souls 3, devs will need to address this issue carefully to maintain the game’s combat experience and overall enjoyment.

Balancing changes are crucial for any evolving multiplayer game, but they must be made with thoughtful consideration to ensure the game’s longevity and positive reception among players.

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Featured image: Elden Ring

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