The Golden Order

2 min read 02-12-2024

FromSoftware's Elden Ring captivated players with its sprawling world, challenging combat, and deeply enigmatic lore. Within this intricate tapestry of myth and mystery lies the Golden Order, a seemingly benevolent yet ultimately complex force that shapes the very fabric of the Lands Between. This exploration delves into the Golden Order's history, its impact on the game's world, and its ultimate fate, avoiding major spoilers where possible.

The Guiding Principles: What is the Golden Order?

The Golden Order is presented as the foundational principle of order and stability in the Lands Between. It's a theocratic system, heavily influenced by the Greater Will, an unseen cosmic entity. This entity seemingly dictates the natural order, influencing the very laws of the world and determining the fates of its inhabitants. The Golden Order is upheld by the Erdtree, a colossal tree serving as a physical manifestation of the Greater Will's power and a focal point of worship.

Marika the Eternal: The Tarnished's Shattering Legacy

The Golden Order's influence is deeply intertwined with Queen Marika, the Eternal, a powerful demigod and the ruling figure who initially embodied the Golden Order's principles. Marika, however, shattered the Elden Ring, the physical embodiment of the Golden Order's power, triggering a catastrophic event that plunged the Lands Between into chaos. This act, while seemingly destructive, sets the stage for the Tarnished's journey and the struggle for power that ensues. The reasons behind Marika's actions remain a complex and fascinating point of debate amongst players and scholars of the game's lore.

The Order's Influence: A World Shaped by Divine Will

The Golden Order's influence is pervasive throughout the Lands Between. Its principles dictate social structures, religious practices, and even the very landscape itself. The architecture, the societal norms, and even the magical systems within the game all reflect the ideals and dictates of this ruling power. The sheer scale of this influence underscores the Golden Order's profound impact on the world, and its eventual shattering reveals the fragility of even the most powerful systems.

The Erdtree and its Devotees

The Erdtree, a majestic and imposing symbol of the Golden Order, serves not only as a visual representation but also as a critical component of the Order's power. Its very existence seems intrinsically linked to the Greater Will's authority, providing a focal point for faith and devotion amongst its followers. Numerous characters within the game dedicate themselves to upholding the Golden Order, highlighting its profound influence on the various factions and individuals within the Lands Between.

The Shattering and its Aftermath: A World in Disarray

Marika's shattering of the Elden Ring fundamentally altered the Lands Between. The ensuing chaos and ensuing power struggle lay bare the inherent contradictions and vulnerabilities of the Golden Order. The ensuing war, and the rise of various factions, all stem directly from the fallout of this pivotal event. The consequences are far-reaching and profoundly impact the narrative and the gameplay experience.

Conclusion: A Complex Legacy

The Golden Order in Elden Ring isn't simply a benevolent force; it's a complex, multifaceted entity with both positive and negative implications. Its eventual shattering reveals not just the fragility of power, but also the inherent tensions within a system built upon faith and unquestioning obedience. The story of the Golden Order is an intricate one, rich with nuances and ambiguities that continue to fascinate players long after they've completed their journey through the Lands Between.