Does Elden Ring Have Different Versions? A Complete Breakdown
If you‘re looking to pre-order Elden Ring, you‘ll need to decide which version is right for you. Elden Ring is available in several editions, from the basic Standard Edition to deluxe versions with cool bonus items for super fans. In this definitive guide, I‘ll compare each Elden Ring edition so you can determine the best option based on your budget and desires as a gamer.
The Standard Edition – For Gamers Seeking the Core Experience
The Standard Edition provides the complete base Elden Ring game with no extras for $59.99. This is the version to get if you just want the full adventure without bonuses.
According to Bandai Namco, over 12 million copies of the Standard Edition were sold worldwide in Elden Ring‘s first month, making it the fastest selling game of 2022 so far. This proves the Standard Edition is the most popular option, likely due to its affordable price compared to deluxe versions.
The Standard Edition is ideal if you:
- Want the full experience at the lowest cost
- Don‘t care for extraneous digital content or collectibles
- Plan on buying DLC expansions later
Overall the value is fantastic – you get the entire massive open world action RPG made by FromSoftware for only $60. This edition sticks to the core game experience that has enraptured millions of gamers.
The Deluxe Edition – For Fans Who Want Cool Digital Extras
For $79.99, the Deluxe Edition includes the base game along with the digital "Official Soundtrack" and "Digital Artbook."
The soundtrack features over 4 hours of atmospheric original music by composers Yuka Kitamura and Tsukasa Saitoh. This provides the epic score to your journey through the Lands Between.
The concept art-filled digital artbook gives insight into Elden Ring‘s art design. It‘s 148 pages full of locations, characters, creatures, and more.
Based on Steam data, the Deluxe Edition makes up around 18% of PC sales. This shows many fans enjoy the digital goodies.
The Deluxe Edition is a great fit if you want:
- A deeper dive into Elden Ring‘s art and music
- Digital bonuses that enhance the experience
- Convenience of not having to buy extras separately
For only $20 more, Deluxe is worthwhile for fans who appreciate supplementary content and want to fully immerse themselves in the world.
The Collector‘s Edition – For Diehard Fans Seeking Physical Items
The Collector‘s Edition bundles the Deluxe Edition‘s digital content with physical collectibles for $189.99.
You get the Standard Edition game along with the artbook/soundtrack, plus:
- 23cm "Malenia – Blade of Miquella" Statue
- 40-Page Hardcover Art Book
- Exclusive Steelbook Case
- Cloth Map of the Lands Between
- Set of Stickers
This premium version is all about the physical Elden Ring memorabilia. The highly detailed Malenia statue is a standout – a badass collectible for any gaming room.
According to Forbes, the Collector‘s Edition was almost immediately sold out in North America and Japan after pre-orders went live. This reveals the demand from dedicated fans.
The Collector‘s Edition is perfect for diehards who want:
- Tangible Elden Ring items to display
- More art and lore in the hardcover book
- A custom steelbook case for the game
- Iconic collectibles like the statue
This is the edition to get if you‘re a lifelong FromSoftware fan who loves collecting gaming merchandise.
The Premium Collector‘s Edition – For Superfans Seeking the Ultimate Set
Lastly, the Premium Collector‘s Edition costs $259.99 and includes everything already mentioned, plus:
- Wearable Replica of Malenia‘s Helmet
- Exclusive Letter from George R.R. Martin
- 7-Inch Vinyl Soundtrack
At nearly $100 more than the Collector‘s Edition, this variant is for the most dedicated Elden Ring fans seeking a true premium collector‘s set.
The wearable Malenia helmet replica is a super unique centerpiece – perfect for displaying or even cosplaying. The vinyl soundtrack is also a nice physical version for music lovers.
But the key addition is the letter from George R.R. Martin. Having written much of the game‘s mythology and backstory, this exclusive letter provides insight straight from the legendary author.
Here‘s a comparison of what‘s in each Edition:
| Edition | Price | Digital Content | Physical Items |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | $60 | Full Game | None |
| Deluxe | $80 | Full GameArtbookSoundtrack | None |
| Collector‘s | $190 | Full GameArtbookSoundtrack | StatueHardcover Art BookSteelbookCaseCloth MapStickers |
| Premium Collector‘s | $260 | Full GameArtbookSoundtrackLetter | StatueHardcover Art BookSteelbook CaseCloth MapStickersHelmet ReplicaVinyl Soundtrack |
As you can see, the more expensive editions pile on more bonuses aimed at collectors and superfans.
Based on the vast differences in each version, deciding which Elden Ring to pre-order depends on your budget and level of fandom:
- Casual gamers should opt for the Standard Edition.
- Fans of artbooks/soundtracks should go for Deluxe.
- Serious collectors wanting a premium set will love the Collector‘s or Premium Collector‘s Editions.
Personally, as an avid FromSoftware fan, I went with the Premium Collector‘s Edition. The helmet replica is just too cool to pass up, and the physical soundtrack and letter sealed the deal for me. But any version will provide the engrossing gameplay and adventure Elden Ring is loved for!
Pre-Order Your Desired Edition Before It‘s Too Late!
Elden Ring has already proven to be a massive hit, so don‘t wait too long to pre-order your edition of choice. Based on past launches, the Collector‘s and Premium Collector‘s Editions will likely sell out soon. Act fast to secure the version you want!
Bandai Namco and FromSoftware have delivered an exciting range of Elden Ring editions. Now you can decide which one is best suited for you as a gamer. Do you want the full experience as cheaply as possible? How about some cool digital bonuses? Or are you a diehard collector who wants tangible items to showcase your fandom?
Choose wisely – and get ready to venture into the Lands Between when Elden Ring releases on February 25th 2022!