Mistborn series author Brandon Sanderson has criticized FromSoftware's choice to collaborate with George R.R. Martin worked on Elden Ring to help FromSoftware craft the open-world title's extensive lore and backstory.
Brandon Sanderson's Mistborn series immerses readers in a unique and complex sci-fi fantasy world. The story primarily takes place on Scadrial, a volcanic world with a red sky and an overwhelming mist that fills the land by night. Scadrial is controlled by a hierarchy of rulers and religious sects, and the saga also contains a detailed system of magic related to specific metals found on the planet. Currently Sanderson's Mistborn series is made up of seven novels organized into two separate eras, with a third era currently in the works for a future release. Recently Brandon Sanderson announced a new video game project, too, though the game will reportedly not be related to Mistborn or any other existing property.
As reported by Video Games Chronicle, Brandon Sanderson recently criticized FromSoftware's choice to work with George R.R. Martin on Elden Ring. On the most recent episode of Sanderson's podcast, Intentionally Blank, the novelist explains that he has been a massive fan of FromSoftware's games since 1994's King's Field. However, FromSoftware instead approached George R.R. Martin to collaborate on Elden Ring, despite Sanderson's claims that, "George doesn't play video games. George has no idea." While the statement may have been made in jest, Sanderson seems to be expressing genuine jealousy at Martin's opportunity to work with FromSoftware.
Elden Ring was first announced back in 2019, and the collaboration between George R.R. Martin and FromSoftware president Hidetaka Miyazaki instantly excited fantasy fans. While the open-world action role-playing game has experienced some delays, Elden Ring's February 25 release date has now been officially cemented. The title will combine FromSoftware's typical soulsborne gameplay with a large world to explore, creating a truly epic fantasy experience. While the game's storyline was created by Miyazaki, the backstory of Elden Ring's Lands Between was constructed by Martin to add depth to the experience.
While Brandon Sanderson may have more video game experience than George R.R. Martin, the Mistborn author's outburst about Elden Ring comes across as petty. Martin has spoken very highly of his experience working with FromSoftware and Hidetaka Miyazaki, and the novelist's work appears to have added great depth to the open-world adventure. Brandon Sanderson apparently has his own video game project in the works, and hopefully this game will help heal any bitterness towards George R.R. Martin and Elden Ring.
Elden Ring will release for PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, and Microsoft Windows on February 25, 2022.
Sources: Video Games Chronicle, Intentionally Blank
