With Elden Ring recently released, the game was extremely successful but also had some bugs and balancing issues like any new releases usually do. Thankfully, a new patch has recently been released that has not only added some new content but also addressed many issues that have been ongoing for PVP and PVE. These are the most recent changes for patch 1.03.
Added Content
We actually received quite a bit of content, some gameplay-wise, and even new quest content. First and foremost, we have a new NPC Jar Bairn, and new quest phases for a few NPCs. These are the following: Nepheli Loux, Kenneth Haight, Diallos, and Gatekeeper Gostoc.
Gameplay-wise, we actually got some love from From Software. We now have more NPC summons for boss fights, and Mimic’s Veil has received a nice increase for created patterns objects can imitate. Our big map will now record NPC names with a new icon option so we can keep tabs on their location if needed. Lastly, we even received some new field music to add to our playlist, given how addicting this game is.
Bug Fixes
From Software spared no time in addressing a lot of the bugs in this game. Players will no longer freeze up when riding their horse, as well as a lot of the item drop issues from bosses. Many players were jipped on loot, and that just killed motivation for a lot of players to continue. Players can now warp without fear of being stuck in the end game, which is also a nice added touch. Scaling on weapons has also been addressed with arcane scaling and where some weapons are not scaling appropriately. Armor stat parameter issues have been fixed, as well as the issues of Fire’s Deadly Sin not having the correct effect.
Sadly, some of the good bugs have to go, too, such as the bug with NPCs not taking damage and NPC Invaders dropping Finger Remedies. While these came in clutch, they definitely needed to be addressed.
Balancing Changes and PVP Future
Some major changes have come to certain abilities and weapons that can possibly change the meta for PVP builds. Two of the biggest ones were the nerfs to Hoarfrost Stomp and Sword of Night and Flame. Barricade Shield also has a lower duration and an increase in FP cost. Bloody Slash will now deal more self-inflicted damage, less damage to enemies, and gain a longer cast time. Many of these changes were needed for balancing issues, but the community utilizes many of these abilities and the weapon as well.
Many sorceries have received a drop in FP cost and damage boost. Some of these buffs were much needed, like Crystal Barrage and Gravity Well. Star Shower and Stars of Ruin were two big examples of ridiculously high FP usage. Mimic Tear has also made the big nerf, which will disappoint many players despite it being beyond busted. Mimic Tear is extremely overpowered and used for most boss fights. Torrent will now heal more upon item usage as well, which is a big need given the amount of damage the horse takes.
1.03 Is Amazing
From Software really came through for the community this patch. Many issues were addressed that needed to happen, and we gained some added bonuses as a cherry on top. Elden Ring has a bright future for the Souls Community and shows how much the company cares for its player base. A lot of developers could learn something from this.
Veteran gamer, tech nerd, comic addict, anime lover, and just your average introverted weeb.
