Polygon’s Jenna Stoeber argues that, despite Elden Ring’s formidable difficulty, it is also deliberately funny. The video says FromSoftware uses environmental humour and game design to turn player mistakes into punchlines, often ending with the familiar “You Died” screen.

The article frames the game’s comedy as emerging from unexpected traps, hazards and situations that encourage players to cause their own downfall. This matters because it presents Elden Ring’s harshness not only as challenge, but as a form of storytelling and dark slapstick.