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Credit: FromSoftware
So, I dove headfirst into *Elden Ring Nightreign*, checking off every conceivable box like a methodical bingo enthusiast. I dispatched all those so-called Nightlords, explored various Nightfarers (what a name; it sounds like a failed indie band), and racked up achievements like they were Pokémon cards. But, nope, I craved more. Enter the tantalizing Remembrance quests, designed to be as engaging as reading the back of a shampoo bottle.
Every Nightfarer is graced with a Remembrance quest—think of them as miniature side stories designed to shed light on these characters. Spoilers ahead, but if you’re invested in the tale of the Revenant, congratulations on that choice. Spoilers or not, it’s not like anyone’s reading the newspapers anymore, right?
The grand finale of many such quests demands slaying a Nightlord. If you’re lucky (or not, really), you might even encounter something far worse than a mere knight—like your in-laws. My favorite character, the Revenant, was first on my hit list. Picture a doll that’s too much into the goth scene; yes, she’s as delightful as she sounds, ultimate high-pitched scream included.
The Revenant comes with theories—some say she resembles Miquella, the damaged doll of a character. Yet, unless Nightreign conducts a few extensive seminars, there’s little else to validate that theory. Naturally, I had to unearth more about this captivating character—after all, I can’t go around playing games without questioning the existential crisis of dolls.
Credit: FromSoftware
Revenant kicks off her revenge spree with all the subtlety of a bull in a china shop. You know she’s grumpy when even her voiced quips could sink a ship. But it was Chapter 5 where I realized that beneath those cute eyes—yes, eyes that scream ‘I’m terrifying’—was a true monster. Upon victory against the Darkdrift Knight, enter Recluse. Yes, a recluse. Might as well call them “Mr. Misunderstood.”
What followed wasn’t just some throwaway scene; it was so brutal, bloody, and unnerving it could put a Tarantino film to shame.
Before I could say “What have I gotten myself into?” I found myself in a badly lit, crumbling mansion. Welcome to House Northerncroft—think of it as the last place you’d want to host Thanksgiving. Sparse exploration revealed only a few hallways and a life-size doll that looked suspiciously like Revenant. Classic plot twist: why can’t you ever just encounter a stuffed animal?
Naturally, a conflict followed with the enemy called Corrosion—low-level foes easily dispatched with a wave of my hand (and summons, obviously). After checking out the doll, I stumbled across an inscription: “My darling little Daphne.” Because nothing screams happy childhood like ominous notes on dolls.
But did I get a minute to celebrate? No! Instead, I had to tackle what the game cleverly named the Containment. It’s a mere reskin of the Royal Revenant, but in a squeezed space? Well, let’s just say I was wishing for a much larger arena. Once dealt with, a cutscene arrived—but hold on, don’t blink! It was more sinister than a salad dress made with artificial ingredients.
Daphne hiding next to Revenant
Daphne’s father
Daphne’s father
Revenant reaching for Daphne
Artful blood spattering: the new trend?
Revenant gazing out the window like a tragic poet
Instead of battling mythical creatures or rogue gods, the final scene merely unveils Revenant’s tragic backstory. Picture this: the doll, frozen in time, watches as her owner, young Daphne, hides from her father—a vision of domestic bliss, if your idea of bliss includes family bloodbaths.
It’s implied that the Night Aspect might be instigating this chaos, as his blue flames flicker ominously nearby. But, alas, before Daphne escapes, she’s betrayed by a squeak. The camera zooms out to reveal a gruesome tableau—blood everywhere, including on Revenant, that precious doll who couldn’t save her cherished charge. Yeah, that’s cheery.
I never expected *Nightreign* to evoke such emotional responses. I was content navigating this cheerful multiplayer escapade, and now I’m questioning my life choices. These quests might just be the unexpected highlight of the game. I’d forgotten how compelling storytelling in The Lands Between can be—because who doesn’t enjoy a good gothic tale drenched in blood and tears?
Thus far, I’ve also tackled quests for Recluse, Wylder, Duchess, and Executor—and they’ve all contributed richly to the flourishing chaos of *Nightreign*. Unpacking the stories of the Nightfarers is far too underrated, especially given the useful relics, chalices, and splendid costumes lurking just beneath the surface. It’s practically a treasure hunt, just without the pirates—and more dolls with tragic backstories.
