Many players who are curious about starting a new adventure in Elden Ring often want to know how long the game will take to finish. Because the game features an open world, challenging bosses, and layers of optional content, the average playtime can vary widely. Some players rush through the main objective, while others spend dozens of hours exploring hidden paths. Understanding Elden Ring’s average playtime helps set expectations before diving into the Lands Between and gives players an idea of how much time they’ll likely invest.
Understanding Elden Ring Average Playtime
The average time required to complete Elden Ring depends on the player’s approach, skill level, and willingness to explore. Unlike linear games, Elden Ring gives players freedom to roam. This freedom means different players may experience wildly different gameplay lengths. However, there are general estimates based on common playstyles.
Main Story Completion
Players who focus primarily on the main story tend to finish faster. They follow the critical path, defeat required bosses, and avoid most optional areas. While the game still demands strategy and patience, this approach cuts down many hours of exploration.
- Average main story playtime roughly 40 60 hours
- Less exploration and fewer side activities
- More focus on progression rather than discovery
Main Story Plus Optional Content
Many players naturally fall into this category because Elden Ring’s world encourages curiosity. Exploring caves, mini-dungeons, and optional bosses adds significant time but also enhances the overall experience. The game’s design makes this approach feel natural rather than forced.
- Average playtime 70 100 hours
- Exploring multiple regions and landmarks
- Fighting optional bosses and collecting weapons
Completionist Experience
Players who want to complete every quest, defeat every boss, and uncover all secrets will spend the most time in Elden Ring. The game offers hundreds of hidden areas, mysteries, and rare items, all of which can extend playtime dramatically.
- Completionist playtime 120 150+ hours
- Full map exploration
- All side quests and endings
Factors That Influence Playtime
The average playtime of Elden Ring is shaped by several factors, including how comfortable a player is with difficult encounters and how deeply they choose to explore. Because every Elden Ring journey is unique, these factors can significantly raise or lower the total playtime.
Player Skill Level
Elden Ring, like other FromSoftware titles, requires learning attack patterns, timing dodges, and understanding strategy. Experienced players who have completed similar games may progress faster. New players may spend more time adjusting to the game’s combat system.
Exploration Style
The Lands Between is filled with optional content. Players who enjoy exploring hidden paths, reading lore, and checking every corner of the map will naturally spend more time. Others may skip less essential areas and progress faster.
Build Experimentation
Some players like to experiment with multiple builds magic, melee, hybrid, or unique weapon styles. Testing different builds can add hours of gameplay, especially when restarting areas or respecing characters.
Boss Difficulty
Certain bosses can take multiple attempts to defeat. Some players may struggle with specific enemies, adding extra hours to their overall playtime. Others may breeze through with the right strategy or build.
How Elden Ring’s Open World Affects Playtime
One of the most defining features of Elden Ring is its expansive open world. Unlike earlier Soulsborne titles, the open world structure allows players to bypass difficult areas until they feel more prepared. This flexibility can stretch or shorten the experience depending on how players choose to explore.
Freedom to Choose Pathways
Players can wander into regions far beyond their level or focus on safer paths. This freedom means no two playthroughs look the same, and time spent varies widely.
Numerous Hidden Locations
Many hidden dungeons, caves, and tunnels lead to powerful equipment or minibosses. Exploring even half of these locations adds dozens of hours to the average playtime.
Side Quests and NPC Stories
The game includes intricate NPC storylines that unfold differently depending on player choices. Following these quests adds depth but also increases the time spent in each area.
Average Playtime for Different Player Types
While averages are helpful, breaking down player categories gives a clearer picture. Each type of player approaches Elden Ring differently, directly influencing how long the game takes.
The Casual Player
Casual players may take longer because they explore at a relaxed pace and prioritize enjoyment. They may revisit earlier areas for leveling or choose to take breaks between challenging battles.
- Expected playtime 80 120 hours
The Speed-Oriented Player
Some players focus on progression and efficiency. They often follow guides or stick closely to the critical path. Their goal is to finish the story as quickly as possible without unnecessary detours.
- Expected playtime 30 45 hours
The Lore Hunter
Players who value narrative elements and environmental storytelling will spend time reading item descriptions, speaking to NPCs, and piecing together lore. This passion for detail makes their playtime longer.
- Expected playtime 100 150 hours
The Completionist
Completionists enjoy finishing every challenge the game has to offer. They hunt for rare items, complete all endings, and defeat every boss.
- Expected playtime 150 200+ hours
Replay Value and Multiple Endings
Elden Ring has several possible endings, each offering a different perspective on the story. Because of these branching outcomes, many players replay the game to experience new ending paths. Replay value significantly increases total playtime across multiple runs.
Trying Different Builds
Testing new builds makes each playthrough feel fresh. A magic-focused run plays differently from a strength-based or dexterity-based run. This variety encourages players to return for more.
New Game Plus
After completing the game, players can enter New Game Plus, where enemies become more challenging but players retain most gear. This encourages extended gameplay beyond the first run.
How Elden Ring Compares to Other Games
Elden Ring’s average playtime is longer than many modern open world games due to its difficulty and depth. Its world design encourages exploration and repeated attempts at tough challenges, contributing to overall length.
Compared to Other FromSoftware Titles
Compared to earlier games like Dark Souls or Bloodborne, Elden Ring generally takes longer to complete because of its vast map and more content. The open world adds many optional hours that players can choose to take or skip.
Elden Ring’s average playtime varies depending on player style, experience level, and interest in exploration. While the main story can take around 40 60 hours, most players spend closer to 80 100 hours enjoying the world and uncovering secrets. Completionists may go well beyond 150 hours. The game’s depth, challenge, and open world freedom make each playthrough unique, ensuring that the time invested feels rewarding for players of all types.