FromSoftware has long been renowned for crafting complex, challenging, and deeply immersive games. Their titles, including the Souls series, Bloodborne, and Elden Ring, are celebrated for their intricate lore, unforgiving difficulty, and a particular attention to detail that often rewards players with keen observational skills. A recent discovery by a dedicated Elden Ring player exemplifies this tradition, uncovering a striking connection between the game’s hardest boss and a beloved character from Dark Souls 2.

The Fearsome Consort Radahn

Within the Elden Ring universe, Consort Radahn stands as one of the most formidable adversaries. Positioned as the ultimate challenge in the “Shadow of the Erdtree” expansion, Radahn awaits players who have triumphed over numerous foes, ready to deliver a humbling experience. His battle has left many players with a sense of déjà vu, a feeling that is now substantiated by a remarkable observation.

THIS GUY HAD RADAHN'S MOVESET A DECADE AGO?
byu/XumetaXD inEldenring

Fans on Reddit recently highlighted that Radahn’s moveset bears a striking resemblance to that of Headless Vengarl, a character from Dark Souls 2. For those unfamiliar with Vengarl, he is encountered in the Shaded Woods, a fan-favorite yet often overlooked area in the game. Vengarl’s head, which lies decapitated and oddly congenial, provides assistance to the player, while his headless body, roaming the forest, presents a significant threat.

Moveset Comparison: Radahn and Vengarl

The discovery was brought to light through a comparison video shared on the game’s subreddit, where it was evident that Radahn’s wide-reaching hitboxes and relentless follow-up attacks closely mirror Vengarl’s fighting style. Though Radahn is swifter and deadlier, the similarities in their combat techniques are unmistakable, especially the hard-hitting cross strikes that define both encounters.

This revelation adds a layer of depth to Radahn’s design, connecting him to FromSoftware’s legacy and offering a nod to the seasoned players who endured the trials of Dark Souls 2. Despite the differences in speed and ferocity, the essence of Vengarl’s moveset lives on in Radahn, reinforcing the cyclical nature of FromSoftware’s design philosophy.

Elden Ring’s Homage to Past Titles

The connection between Radahn and Vengarl is far from an isolated instance. Elden Ring, much like other titles from FromSoftware, is a rich tapestry woven from the threads of its predecessors. Several characters and enemies in Elden Ring draw direct inspiration from earlier games, further solidifying the game’s place within the broader FromSoftware universe.

For instance, the Erdtree Avatars in Elden Ring are essentially reskinned versions of the Asylum Demons from the original Dark Souls. The Omenkillers closely resemble the Capra Demons, with some encounters even recreating the infamous Dark Souls boss battle, complete with two vicious dogs. Similarly, the basilisks and rats retain their models from previous games, albeit with slight modifications, such as replacing petrification with death blight.

The game’s catacombs also feature imps, which are direct descendants of the thralls from Dark Souls 3. The inclusion of these familiar enemies serves as a nostalgic callback for long-time fans while introducing new challenges to the latest iteration.

Final Thoughts

The discovery of Consort Radahn’s connection to Headless Vengarl is more than just an interesting piece of trivia; it is a testament to FromSoftware’s unique approach to game design. By reimagining and reintroducing elements from their previous titles, they create a sense of continuity that resonates with players. This blending of the old with the new allows veteran players to reminisce while offering newcomers a taste of the legacy that shaped the modern Souls-like genre.

As Elden Ring continues to captivate the gaming community, these connections remind us of the depth and intricacy of FromSoftware’s work. They not only enrich the gameplay experience but also contribute to the enduring appeal of their games. Whether you’re facing Radahn in Elden Ring or recalling your battles with Vengarl in Dark Souls 2, it’s clear that the echoes of the past still resonate in the present.

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