Elden Ring's vast, unforgiving world is best explored at your own pace. Whether you're trying to overcome a particularly challenging boss, avoid unwanted invasions, or simply prefer a solitary journey, knowing how to go offline in Elden Ring is crucial. This guide provides a straightforward explanation of how to disconnect from online services and enjoy a truly offline experience in the Lands Between.
Understanding Elden Ring's Online Functionality
Before we delve into how to disconnect, it's important to understand what online features Elden Ring offers:
- Multiplayer: Co-op play with friends, summoning spirits, and invading other players' worlds.
- Messages: Helpful (and sometimes misleading!) messages left by other players.
- Bloodstains: See the final moments of other players' deaths, offering a glimpse into potential dangers.
While these features add to the game's richness and community aspect, they can also be disruptive if you prefer a solo playthrough.
How to Disable Online Features in Elden Ring
The process for going offline varies slightly depending on your platform:
On PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4:
- Pause the game: Press the Options button on your controller.
- Navigate to System: This is usually located in the main menu.
- Select Network: Look for an option related to network settings.
- Go Offline: Choose the option to go offline. This disconnects your console from the internet.
Important Note: You might need to disable your internet connection entirely on your console's network settings to ensure a complete offline experience. This will prevent background updates or reconnections.
On Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One:
- Press the Xbox button: This brings up the guide.
- Navigate to Profile & System: Usually found at the top of the guide.
- Select Settings: Find the settings menu.
- Go to General: Locate the "General" settings.
- Select Network Settings: Find the Network settings.
- Go Offline: Choose the option to go offline.
Similar to PlayStation, completely disabling your internet connection on your Xbox console's network settings might be necessary for a truly offline experience.
On PC (Steam):
- Pause the game: You don't need to pause the game to alter your online status.
- Disconnect from the internet: The simplest method is to disconnect your computer from the internet entirely – either via your router or by disabling your network adapter.
- Alternatively, use Steam's Offline Mode: While this is primarily for accessing offline games, it may impact some Elden Ring online features. Go to Steam -> Go Offline to enable Steam's Offline Mode. This mode may not prevent all online features.
Important Note: Completely disconnecting your PC from the internet is the most effective way to guarantee a fully offline experience in Elden Ring on PC.
Why Play Elden Ring Offline?
There are several compelling reasons to choose an offline Elden Ring experience:
- Immersive Solo Play: Fully immerse yourself in the world without interruptions or distractions from other players.
- Increased Challenge: Avoid invasions and focus solely on your own skills and strategies.
- Bug Prevention: Some online features can occasionally cause glitches or bugs. Playing offline can minimize these issues.
- Personalized Exploration: Explore the Lands Between at your own pace and discover its secrets without the influence of other players' messages or bloodstains.
Going offline in Elden Ring provides a unique and focused gameplay experience. So, disconnect and embark on your solitary adventure through the challenging and rewarding Lands Between!
