Despite being released over nine years ago, gamers continue to clamor for a remastered version of Bloodborne and a PC port. While Sony remains silent on these requests, a new Elden Ring mod offers a compelling Bloodborne-like experience.
Created by user corvianNoctis on the Nexus Mods forums, the Graceborne mod, released last month, introduces visual changes like a perpetual night atmosphere and alterations to enemies and bosses, aligning them with Bloodborne’s distinct art style.
The mod also introduces significant gameplay changes. Gear is eliminated, enabling swift Bloodborne-style movements, while weapon parrying is now possible. A blood-based “healing style” is implemented, allowing vials to heal a percentage of health rather than a fixed amount.
The alpha version introduces five firearms, 35 weapons, 17 trick weapons (which transform into different forms, much like in Bloodborne), and 22 new armor sets.
Elden Ring: The Graceborne Mod Brings Bloodborne to the Lands Between
It’s been over nine years since its initial release, and gamers are still begging Sony to release a remastered version of Bloodborne and work on a PC version. While the Japanese publisher ignores all these suggestions without any official comment, you have the perfect opportunity to experience a similar experience to the famous PS4 exclusive thanks to the latest Elden Ring mod.
Embrace the Hunt in the Lands Between: A Bloodborne Experience in Elden Ring
The mod in question, created by user corvianNoctis over on the Nexus Mods forums, is called Graceborne. Its alpha version was released last month ahead of the launch of Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree, and it brings with it visual changes like perpetual night and tweaks to some enemies and bosses to better fit the art direction of FromSoftware’s beloved masterpiece.
But there are some major gameplay changes too. There’s no gear, so you’ll be able to make quick Bloodborne-style moves when you’re cornered, and weapon parrying is now possible. This isn’t all, as the mod also introduces a blood-based “healing style,” meaning your vials will heal a certain percentage of your health rather than a fixed amount.
New Arsenal: Bloodborne Weapons and More
The alpha version of Graceborne has already introduced a plethora of content that enhances the Bloodborne feel:
Weapons:
- **Firearms:** Five firearms, echoing the visceral and fast-paced combat of Bloodborne. They are your primary tools for engaging enemies and maximizing your damage potential
- **Trick Weapons:** 17 trick weapons, which are a central part of Bloodborne’s combat system, allowing for dynamic and transformative gameplay. Each weapon has a standard form and a transformed form, offering a diverse range of attacks and combat styles for players to master.
- **Regular Weapons:** 35 weapons that are inspired by the dark gothic setting and enemies of Bloodborne, featuring unique move sets and diverse damage types that will push your combat creativity to its limits:
Armor:
- **Armor Sets:** 22 new armor sets, providing varied aesthetic options that capture the gothic and grotesque style of Bloodborne. Each set boasts its own unique design, offering a level of personalization and immersion that will enhance your journey through the Lands Between.
More than Just Visuals: Graceborne Changes the Core Gameplay
The mod doesn’t just add content; it reimagines how Elden Ring plays to align with the spirit of Bloodborne, creating a truly unique experience. Here are some key takeaways:
Faster Pace, More Aggressive Encounters
Graceborne ditches the weighty armor and heavier combat, replacing it with the nimble, quick reflexes that define Bloodborne. This results in a faster-paced, more aggressive encounter where dodging, parrying, and well-timed attacks are crucial for survival. You’ll be constantly on edge, reacting quickly to your surroundings, and always seeking opportunities to deliver a swift and brutal strike.
The Thrill of Parrying
Parrying, an integral part of Bloodborne’s combat, finds its home in Elden Ring thanks to Graceborne. Timing your parries perfectly will open up a window for a devastating riposte, allowing you to turn the tide of battle in an instant. No longer will you be relying solely on dodging to survive, as precise parrying opens up a new level of skill expression and mastery.
Blood-Based Healing
The traditional fixed healing potions are replaced with a blood-based healing system. Now, your healing items will restore a percentage of your health, introducing a new level of strategic resource management. This forces you to be more deliberate with your healing and encourages a more aggressive combat style, as a single mistake might drastically reduce your health.
Experience the Best of Two Worlds: A Modder’s Dream
The Graceborne Mod isn’t just regarding slapping Bloodborne visuals on Elden Ring. It’s a deep commitment to recreating the heart and soul of the hunting experience, and it succeeds in a way that resonates with players who crave a specific style of gameplay.
The mod is still in its alpha stage, so it has room to grow and evolve. However, Graceborne has already proven itself as a worthwhile venture for fans of both Elden Ring and Bloodborne, and it offers a fascinating peek into what a future Bloodborne-infused Elden Ring experience might look like.
Download and Dive into the Dark: A Call to Hunters
If you’re a Bloodborne fan or simply looking for a unique twist on the Elden Ring experience, Graceborne is a must-try. The mod is readily available on Nexus Mods, and though it’s still in alpha, it offers a glimpse into the future of mod development and the creative possibilities they offer.
Go forth, hunters. The Lands Between await, shrouded in the dark and visceral atmosphere of Bloodborne. Embrace the hunt, and experience the thrill of a world intertwined with the best of both worlds.