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If you've played Elden Ring, or just about any action-adventure title, you're likely acquainted with the glorious technique referred to as the “rolling dodge.” This avoidance maneuver lets your avatar to perform a front, lateral, or rearward somersault to evade incoming harm and create distance from the bad guy. Sounds handy, doesn't it?

The evasion roll, however, has gotten significant backlash, not simply due to the tumbling; it's been labeled dumb, a cop-out, and an unrealistic move — and occasionally, I agree. You should see me somersaulting past nearby enemy groups in a well-known fantasy game — untouchable! But this game's dodge roll is the dodge roll to top all dodge rolls evasion moves, and let me explain.

Regarding this title, the creators discovered a clever approach to counter all sentiments that the move is not challenging enough: simply give all foes unreasonable strength, triple that, and every Tarnished who approaches them will appreciate deeply thanks to their rolling skill, me included. When the stakes are this high, pulling off a perfect dodge seems like an accomplishment, not a cheat.

No alternative avoidance technique in the game approaches this level of gratification and dependability, as quick dashes provide minimal movement and defensive postures are readily overcome by strong enemies. One player advised hopping as the main Elden Ring evasion method, but aside from not providing optimal placement, It wasn't clear to me taking a crushing hit could enhance my odds of defeating bosses (skill issue, perhaps).

Perfecting the Skill

But even though this evasion move grants reprieve in an otherwise brutal game, it isn't without skill. First of all, the game's evasion move only triggers a frame of protection once you stop pressing the roll control, which prevents a rapid, fearful withdrawal from dire situations. Additionally, while it might carry you off from foes, it's far more effective to employ it as a chance to get closer, optimally at their back, and land some hits. Lastly, you must still grasp and foresee foe assaults, as dodging at the start of a long charging animation might terminate your protection prior to the hit connecting… causing significant harm.

A Harmonious System

Although evasion-rolling in quick succession could appear somewhat silly (give it up for Geralt again), this isn't practically possible in this title. Certainly, that still doesn't make it a believable combat move — which is precisely why it would be pure horror to experience it in a product like a historical simulation — but this is a flashy fantasy title we're talking about, therefore, it doesn't matter?

Like any proper evasion move, this title's rolling animation is spruced up with a small acrobatic jump at the start, offering a lively impression as opposed to plopping the player onto the ground. Based on your equipment, the technique may seem incredibly quick or relatively slow, however, it's consistently swifter and more seamless than the rolling dodges featured in the previous titles. Admittedly, you will stick your oversized sword into the ground while equipped with it, but that's your own fault for not just playing alternative arms (I'm joking — don't play the game with a crossbow).

Ideal Equilibrium

This title's avoidance feature creates the perfect balance between difficulty and chance, offering hope of victory while endangering that very prospect at the slightest mistake. Perfect this move, and you'll be rewarded with not just victory, but gratification.