Elden Ring, the open-world action RPG from FromSoftware, has now sold over 28 million copies worldwide, eclipsing the lifetime sales of the entire Dark Souls series. This milestone marks a significant moment for the game, which was already celebrated for its critical acclaim and innovative gameplay.
A New Benchmark for FromSoftware
FromSoftware’s previous claim to fame, the Dark Souls series, had achieved a cumulative sales figure of approximately 27 million units by May 2020. This was spread across multiple titles over nearly a decade. However, Elden Ring, launched in February 2022, has not only matched but exceeded this figure in just under three years, showcasing the immense popularity and appeal of FromSoftware’s latest offering.
The game’s sales journey has been nothing short of phenomenal:
- Initial Surge: Within just 18 days of its release, Elden Ring sold 12 million copies, setting a record for the fastest-selling game from FromSoftware.
- Continued Growth: By February 2023, the game had sold 20 million units, and by June 2024, this number climbed to 25 million. The most recent sales figures confirm an additional 3.6 million units sold since then, bringing the total to 28.6 million.
Factors Behind the Success
Several elements have contributed to Elden Ring‘s extraordinary sales figures:
- Critical Acclaim: The game received widespread praise for its expansive world, innovative gameplay mechanics, and the narrative depth provided by George R.R. Martin’s involvement. It has been hailed as a game that both expands on the Soulsborne formula and introduces it to a broader audience.
- Accessibility: While maintaining the challenging nature of FromSoftware games, Elden Ring has been noted for its more accessible approach to the Soulslike genre, making it welcoming to both veterans and newcomers.
- Cultural Impact: The game has not only dominated sales charts but also cultural discourse around gaming, with significant visibility on streaming platforms like Twitch, where it saw millions of watched hours shortly after its launch.
- DLC Momentum: The release of the “Shadow of the Erdtree” expansion has further fueled sales, with the add-on selling over 5 million copies in just three days, indicating sustained interest in the Elden Ring universe.
What This Means for the Future
The surpassing of the Dark Souls series’ sales record is more than just a commercial achievement; it’s a cultural one. Elden Ring has set a new standard for what can be expected from FromSoftware and has likely secured the franchise’s place in gaming history. This success story suggests that there could be more Elden Ring content on the horizon, whether through additional expansions or perhaps sequels. FromSoftware has already hinted at exploring further possibilities with the IP.
Conclusion
Elden Ring‘s journey to 28 million sales is a clear indicator of its enduring appeal and influence. It not only outshines its predecessors in terms of sales but also reinvigorates the genre that FromSoftware helped define. As the gaming world continues to evolve, Elden Ring stands as a monument to what can be achieved with visionary design, compelling storytelling, and a commitment to challenging yet rewarding gameplay.
For gamers and industry watchers alike, Elden Ring is not just a game but a phenomenon that continues to shape the landscape of modern gaming.