Striking a Balance: Hidetaka Miyazaki Discusses Game Accessibility

Elden Ring director Hidetaka Miyazaki recently shared his thoughts on game accessibility, expressing a desire for his games to be approachable for all players. Despite the reputation of FromSoftware games for being notoriously challenging, Miyazaki acknowledges the reality that many players will seek outside help to navigate through the game. However, he emphasizes that the development team does not intentionally design the games with the expectation that players will rely on external guides and information.

Miyazaki emphasizes the importance of creating an experience that allows players to progress through the game without feeling the need to consult external sources. He suggests that the team aims to cater to players who prefer to explore and discover secrets on their own, without prior knowledge or assistance. This aligns with Miyazaki’s vision of providing a gameplay experience that is immersive and encourages players to engage with the world of the game.

There is a distinction between the overall difficulty of the game and the challenge of navigating through the game world. While some players may find certain bosses or encounters too difficult to overcome, Miyazaki acknowledges that the navigation aspect of the game should not be needlessly complicated. He recognizes that there may be areas for improvement in ensuring that players who choose to progress without external help are adequately supported throughout their journey.

Miyazaki hints at the possibility of refining the game’s accessibility further in future projects. He expresses a willingness to embrace players who prefer to experience the game without external assistance, indicating a commitment to providing a balanced and engaging gameplay experience for all types of players. By addressing potential areas for improvement, Miyazaki and his team aim to create games that welcome both experienced and inexperienced players alike.

Hidetaka Miyazaki’s perspective on game accessibility sheds light on the delicate balance between challenge and navigation in game design. By striving to cater to a diverse range of players and addressing potential areas for improvement, Miyazaki and FromSoftware demonstrate a commitment to creating immersive and engaging gameplay experiences for all.