Can You Fast Travel in Elden Ring? A Comprehensive Guide to Seamless Exploration
Elden Ring's vast and breathtaking open world initially seems daunting. But fear not, Tarnished One! While exploration is a core part of the experience, the game does offer a way to quickly traverse its expansive landscapes. Yes, you can fast travel in Elden Ring, but it's not available from the very beginning. This guide will break down everything you need to know about unlocking and utilizing this crucial mechanic.
How to Unlock Fast Travel in Elden Ring
Fast travel in Elden Ring is unlocked by finding and activating Sites of Grace. These are scattered throughout the Lands Between, acting as checkpoints, bonfires, and crucially, fast travel points. Think of them as the Elden Ring equivalent of Dark Souls' bonfires.
As you progress through the game, you'll naturally stumble upon numerous Sites of Grace. Activating one for the first time will register its location on your map. Once you've discovered a few, a new option will become available.
How to Use Fast Travel in Elden Ring
Once you've activated several Sites of Grace, you can fast travel between them by following these steps:
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Open your Map: Press the designated button (usually the same button used to open your inventory).
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Locate the Site of Grace: Your currently active Site of Grace will be indicated on the map. All discovered Sites of Grace will also be clearly visible.
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Select Your Destination: Choose the Site of Grace you wish to travel to.
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Confirm Your Travel: The game will confirm your selection. A short loading screen will follow, and you'll be instantly transported to your chosen Site of Grace.
What Are Sites of Grace and How Do I Find More?
Sites of Grace are more than just fast travel points. They serve several vital functions:
- Fast Travel: As discussed, they allow you to quickly move between locations.
- Rest and Recover: Resting at a Site of Grace replenishes your flasks, allowing you to continue your journey.
- Level Up: You'll level up your character at Sites of Grace, allocating stat points and improving your abilities.
Finding more Sites of Grace is a natural part of exploration. They're often found near important locations, such as dungeons, bosses, and key story points. Keep a sharp eye out while you're exploring the world.
Can I Fast Travel During Combat?
No, you cannot fast travel while engaged in combat. You must be in a safe, non-combat state to access the fast travel menu.
Are There Any Limitations to Fast Travel?
While incredibly convenient, fast travel does have some limitations:
- You Must Discover Sites of Grace: You can only fast travel to Sites of Grace you have already discovered.
- No Mid-Combat Travel: As mentioned above, you cannot fast travel during combat.
- Loading Screens: While quick, fast travel does involve brief loading screens.
Despite these minor limitations, the ability to fast travel in Elden Ring significantly enhances the experience, allowing players to efficiently manage their exploration and focus on challenging content. Embrace the freedom, Tarnished One!
Does Fast Travel Affect Gameplay or Story Progression?
No, fast traveling does not affect the core gameplay or story progression in Elden Ring. It merely provides a convenient way to move between locations without having to traverse the entire map on foot.
Are there any hidden Sites of Grace I should look for?
Many Sites of Grace are well-hidden or tucked away in obscure areas. Exploring every corner of the map, even seemingly insignificant areas, will likely reveal more of these vital checkpoints and expand your fast travel options. Consider using online guides or wikis to identify locations of those more difficult-to-find Sites of Grace if you are finding yourself stuck.
This guide should equip you with everything you need to know about fast traveling in Elden Ring. Enjoy your journey, and may the Erdtree guide your way!
