Elden Ring Player Sues For Content Being Inaccessible Due to Skill Issues

A lawsuit against Bandai Namco and FromSoftware, filed by an Elden Ring player, claims consumers were misled about the game's content. This article examines the lawsuit, its likelihood of success, and the plaintiff's motivations.

Elden Ring Lawsuit Filed in Small Claims Court

The plaintiff, identified only as Nora Kisaragi on 4Chan, announced their intention to sue Bandai Namco on September 25th. Their claim centers on the assertion that Elden Ring, and other FromSoftware titles, contain a "hidden" game intentionally obscured by the games' high difficulty.

FromSoftware games are known for their challenging gameplay. The recent Elden Ring DLC, Shadow of the Erdtree, further exemplifies this, proving difficult even for experienced players. However, Kisaragi argues this difficulty conceals significant, intentionally hidden content. They cite datamined content as evidence, contradicting the view of some players who believe this material was cut content.

Kisaragi admits to lacking concrete evidence, relying instead on "constant hints" from the developers. Examples cited include references from Sekiro's art book and statements by FromSoftware President Hidetaka Miyazaki. The core argument is that players paid for inaccessible content without awareness of its existence.

Many dismiss the case as absurd, noting that dataminers would have uncovered such a hidden game. The presence of cut content in game code is common industry practice, not necessarily indicating intentional concealment.

The Lawsuit's Legal Viability

Massachusetts law allows anyone over 18 to sue in small claims court without an attorney. However, the judge will assess the case's validity. The plaintiff could argue under Consumer Protection Law, claiming deceptive practices. Proving this, however, requires substantial evidence of a "hidden dimension" and demonstrable consumer harm. Without this, dismissal is likely. Even if successful, damages in small claims court are limited.

Despite the long odds, Kisaragi remains resolute, stating their primary goal is to force Bandai Namco to publicly acknowledge the alleged hidden content's existence.