FromSoftware games such as Elden Ring, Sekiro, and the Dark Souls trilogy are known for their dark and challenging gameplay. However, what makes these games unique is the occasional moments of dark humor that arise during intense boss battles or encounters with enemies. While the studio’s creative director, Hidetaka Miyazaki, may not aim to make these games “funny,” the unexpected laughs that players experience add an element of surprise to the overall experience.
In a recent interview with Eurogamer, Miyazaki discussed how certain aspects of FromSoftware games are designed to be humorous, while others come from a more serious or dark place. Despite the studio’s intentions, many players often misconstrue these elements as comedic due to the intense and challenging nature of the games. For example, repeatedly getting defeated by a giant monkey can lead to a sense of almost defeated amusement, rather than frustration. Miyazaki himself acknowledges that the humor in their games is often unintentional and arises from the player’s reaction to the environment they are in.
The phenomenon of unintentional humor in FromSoftware games can be compared to instances of happy-crying or nervous laughter, where our bodies produce an opposite intense feeling to regulate emotions. The tension and pressure of facing challenging enemies in the games can sometimes be so overwhelming that laughter becomes a natural response. Miyazaki emphasizes that the humor in their games is not calculated, but rather a result of player interpretation and the immersive nature of the gameplay experience.
Miyazaki also revealed details about the upcoming Shadow of the Erdtree DLC for Elden Ring, describing it as the studio’s largest expansion to date. The continuous success and quality of FromSoftware games can be attributed to the studio’s focus on empowering and retaining talent. By fostering a creative and supportive environment for developers, Miyazaki ensures that the team can consistently deliver innovative and engaging gaming experiences for players worldwide.
The unintentional dark humor found in FromSoftware games adds a refreshing and unexpected element to the intense and challenging gameplay. While the studio may not set out to create comedic moments, the interpretation of humor in their games often stems from the player’s emotional response to the immersive world created by the developers. As fans eagerly anticipate the release of Elden Ring’s upcoming DLC, it is clear that FromSoftware’s commitment to empowering talent and fostering creativity will continue to drive the success of their future projects.
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