How to Unlock Multiplayer in Elden Ring: A Journey Through the Lands Between and Beyond

Elden Ring, the critically acclaimed action RPG developed by FromSoftware, has captivated players with its vast open world, intricate lore, and challenging gameplay. One of the most exciting features of the game is its multiplayer component, which allows players to team up with friends or strangers to tackle the game’s many challenges. But how exactly do you unlock multiplayer in Elden Ring? And what does it mean to “unlock” something that feels more like a state of mind than a game mechanic? Let’s dive into the details.

Understanding the Basics of Multiplayer in Elden Ring

Before we get into the specifics of unlocking multiplayer, it’s important to understand how multiplayer works in Elden Ring. The game offers several multiplayer options, including cooperative play, PvP (player versus player) combat, and asynchronous interactions through messages and bloodstains.

Cooperative Play

Cooperative play allows you to summon other players into your world to help you defeat bosses, explore dungeons, or simply enjoy the game together. To summon another player, you’ll need to use a specific item called the “Furlcalling Finger Remedy.” This item reveals summon signs left by other players, which you can interact with to bring them into your game.

PvP Combat

PvP combat, on the other hand, allows you to invade other players’ worlds or be invaded yourself. This can be a thrilling way to test your skills against other players, but it also comes with its own set of risks. To engage in PvP, you’ll need to use items like the “Duelist’s Furled Finger” or the “Bloody Finger,” which allow you to invade other players’ worlds or be summoned as an adversary.

Asynchronous Interactions

Asynchronous interactions, such as leaving messages or viewing bloodstains, don’t require direct interaction with other players. However, they can still provide valuable information or warnings about what lies ahead in the game.

How to Unlock Multiplayer in Elden Ring

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s get into the specifics of how to unlock multiplayer in Elden Ring.

Step 1: Obtain the Furlcalling Finger Remedy

The first step to unlocking multiplayer is to obtain the Furlcalling Finger Remedy. This item is essential for summoning other players into your world. You can obtain the Furlcalling Finger Remedy by purchasing it from merchants, finding it in the world, or crafting it using Erdleaf Flowers.

Step 2: Activate Summoning Pools

Summoning Pools are specific locations in the game where you can place your summon sign or interact with other players’ summon signs. To activate a Summoning Pool, you’ll need to interact with a small statue or obelisk found throughout the game world. Once activated, you can use the Furlcalling Finger Remedy to reveal summon signs at that location.

Step 3: Use the Furlcalling Finger Remedy

With the Furlcalling Finger Remedy in hand and a Summoning Pool activated, you’re ready to start summoning other players. Use the Furlcalling Finger Remedy to reveal summon signs, then interact with the sign of the player you want to summon. If the summoning is successful, the other player will appear in your world, ready to assist you.

Step 4: Engage in PvP (Optional)

If you’re interested in PvP combat, you’ll need to use items like the Duelist’s Furled Finger or the Bloody Finger. These items allow you to invade other players’ worlds or be summoned as an adversary. Keep in mind that PvP can be challenging, so make sure you’re prepared before diving in.

Step 5: Explore Asynchronous Interactions

While not strictly necessary for multiplayer, asynchronous interactions can enhance your experience in Elden Ring. Leave messages for other players, view bloodstains to see how others met their demise, and use the information to your advantage as you explore the Lands Between.

Tips for a Successful Multiplayer Experience

• Communication is Key: If you’re playing with friends, consider using voice chat or text chat to coordinate your efforts. Communication can make a big difference in challenging encounters.

• Be Mindful of Your Level: Multiplayer matchmaking is based on your character’s level and weapon upgrade level. If you’re too high or too low compared to your friends, you may have trouble connecting.

• Experiment with Different Builds: Multiplayer is a great opportunity to experiment with different character builds and strategies. Try out new weapons, spells, and tactics to see what works best for you.

• Respect Other Players: Whether you’re cooperating or competing, always respect other players. Elden Ring is a challenging game, and everyone is trying to have fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I play multiplayer with friends on different platforms?

A: As of now, Elden Ring does not support cross-platform play. You can only play with friends on the same platform (e.g., PlayStation, Xbox, or PC).

Q: Do I need PlayStation Plus or Xbox Live Gold to play multiplayer?

A: Yes, you will need an active subscription to PlayStation Plus or Xbox Live Gold to access multiplayer features on consoles. PC players do not need a subscription.

Q: Can I summon more than one player at a time?

A: Yes, you can summon up to two other players to assist you in your world. However, summoning more players may increase the difficulty of certain encounters.

Q: What happens if I die in multiplayer?

A: If you die in multiplayer, you will be returned to your world, and any summoned players will be sent back to their own worlds. You can try summoning them again if you wish to continue playing together.

Q: Can I turn off invasions if I don’t want to engage in PvP?

A: While you can’t completely turn off invasions, you can reduce the likelihood of being invaded by playing in offline mode or using items like the “White Cipher Ring” to call for help from other players.

Unlocking multiplayer in Elden Ring is just the beginning of your journey through the Lands Between. Whether you’re teaming up with friends, testing your skills against other players, or leaving messages for strangers, the multiplayer experience adds a whole new dimension to the game. So grab your Furlcalling Finger Remedy, activate those Summoning Pools, and prepare for an adventure like no other.