How FromSoftware Tells Stories Without Words

In this essay, we’ll explore three key aspects of FromSoftware’s storytelling. First, we’ll examine how the design of the game’s environments—from crumbling castles to scattered ruins—communicates important details about the plot and world. Second, we’ll look at how NPCs contribute to the story with their cryptic dialogue and subtle character interactions. Finally, we’ll discuss how item descriptions and hidden lore details expand the game’s universe and enrich the player’s experience. By exploring these elements, we can understand why FromSoftware’s storytelling resonates with so many players and creates a gaming experience that is open-ended, personal, and endlessly engaging.