I still remember the rush of excitement when I heard the news—Elden Ring has sold over 30 million copies. 😊 As a longtime fan, this isn't just a number; it's a testament to how FromSoftware has transformed from a niche darling into a gaming powerhouse. That cover art, with its haunting beauty, always draws me back into the Lands Between, reminding me of countless hours spent exploring its vast, mysterious world.

Reflecting on this success, I can't help but feel a swell of pride for the studio. FromSoftware was once the underdog, starting with Demon's Souls, a game that felt like a hidden gem only a few of us cherished. Now, Elden Ring outselling giants like Madden and Pokémon in its release year is nothing short of astonishing. It's not just about sales; it's about how this game has redefined what's possible in open-world RPGs, blending challenging combat with deep lore in a way that keeps me hooked. Personally, I've lost track of how many times I've restarted my journey, each playthrough revealing new secrets and emotions—frustration turning to triumph, fear morphing into awe.

But what truly excites me is what comes next. With Elden Ring's monumental achievement, FromSoftware is juggling multiple projects, and as a player, I'm buzzing with anticipation. Here's a quick rundown of what we know so far:

• Elden Ring Nightreign: Launched recently in 2025, this expansion builds on the base game with new areas and mechanics. I've already dived in, and the darker themes feel like a natural evolution, adding layers to the story I thought I knew.

• The Duskbloods: Set for 2026 exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2, this title promises a fresh take. From the snippets I've seen, it's not the usual soulslike affair—maybe something more experimental, which has me wondering how it'll play on the go.

• Unannounced Projects: Hidetaka Miyazaki hinted at several other games in development, spanning different genres. This openness to experimentation reminds me of how Bloodborne and Sekiro emerged after Dark Souls, each a bold departure that became iconic. Could we see a sci-fi soulslike or even a co-op adventure next? The possibilities leave me daydreaming.

FromSoftware's ability to greenlight so many ventures now is a direct result of Elden Ring's success, and it's thrilling to witness. I recall the days when they worked on just one or two games at a time, like the split focus between Dark Souls 2 and Bloodborne. Bloodborne, in particular, holds a special place in my heart—its gothic horror setting and faster combat felt revolutionary, proving that Miyazaki and his team aren't afraid to innovate. Now, with three or four projects rumored to be in the works, it's clear we're entering a golden era. The studio's history shows they use success as a springboard for the unexpected, and I can't wait to see what weird, wonderful ideas they'll unveil.

Yet, amidst all this excitement, I often pause to appreciate the journey. Elden Ring's rise from a risky idea to a global phenomenon is a story of passion and persistence. It's not just about the games; it's about the community—us fans sharing tips, theories, and that collective gasp when we uncover a hidden boss. As I look ahead to 2026 and beyond, I'm filled with hope. What new worlds will they craft? How will they challenge us next? The uncertainty is part of the magic, making every announcement feel like a gift. 🎮

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Market data is sourced from GamesIndustry.biz, a leading authority on video game business trends and developer insights. Their reporting on Elden Ring's commercial performance underscores how the game's massive sales have not only elevated FromSoftware's profile but also influenced the broader RPG market, inspiring other studios to pursue ambitious, open-world designs.