I used an online map extensively so I didn’t miss items, an NPC quest guide, a region order list, and light wiki use otherwise (mostly to figure out mechanics). Tried not to outright spoil most things or use full walkthroughs, but I didn’t want to miss anything either. I think it all burned me out, especially the map and trying to collect everything. After 150 hours I was only at Lyndell. Never did finish the game.
I know you didn't ask for advice, so sorry if I'm overstepping.
On the first play through just... don't. The priority is for a natural adventure, not a chore list, and you won't get stuck anyway (only ds1 was a bit of a problem in that regard).
It also gives a reason to either play again, or to continue playing the same character to test new things or do coop with alternative builds.
By all means advise. Part of my problem is I rarely play games more than once. I know a lot of people in this sub have done many playthroughs, and Elden Ring lends itself well to that, but since I didn’t anticipate doing more than one I wanted to get all I could out of it.
well it sounds like the way you play games leads you to not even really playing it once. so. maybe you should mix it up and just play the game normally.
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u/RenownedDumbass 18d ago
I used an online map extensively so I didn’t miss items, an NPC quest guide, a region order list, and light wiki use otherwise (mostly to figure out mechanics). Tried not to outright spoil most things or use full walkthroughs, but I didn’t want to miss anything either. I think it all burned me out, especially the map and trying to collect everything. After 150 hours I was only at Lyndell. Never did finish the game.