People who tried Elden Ring, is the game really that difficult?

Elden Ring was my first From Soft game, let’s start with that caveat. I found it hard, but not punishingly so. Once I got used to the realization that you can’t just run in and swing your sword with abandon, I was able to complete the game 100% fighting every boss and getting every ending. Definitely an enjoyable game and I would recommend giving it a play through.