An Elden Ring player, Nora Kisaragi, has filed a lawsuit against Bandai Namco and FromSoftware in Massachusetts small claims court. The lawsuit alleges that the developers misled consumers by concealing substantial game content, claiming a "whole new game… hidden inside" their titles, obscured by intentionally high difficulty.
Kisaragi's argument centers on the idea that FromSoftware's notoriously challenging games, including the recent Elden Ring DLC, Shadow of the Erdtree, mask intentionally hidden content. They cite datamined content as evidence, contrasting with the common understanding that such data represents cut content. The plaintiff lacks concrete proof, relying instead on perceived "constant hints" from developers, such as statements from Hidetaka Miyazaki and art book references.
The core of Kisaragi's claim is that players paid for inaccessible content without even knowing of its existence. However, many dismiss the lawsuit as absurd, noting that dataminers would have uncovered such extensive hidden content years ago. The presence of remnants of cut content in game code is a common industry practice, not indicative of intentional deception.
The lawsuit's viability is questionable. While Massachusetts small claims court allows individuals 18 or older to sue without an attorney, the judge will determine its validity. The plaintiff could attempt to use consumer protection laws, claiming deceptive practices. However, proving the existence of a "hidden dimension" and demonstrating consumer harm will be extremely difficult. The case is highly speculative and lacks substantial evidence, making dismissal likely. Even if successful, damages awarded in small claims court are limited.
Despite the low probability of success, Kisaragi's stated goal is not financial gain, but to force Bandai Namco to publicly acknowledge the alleged hidden content's existence.
