One thing we actively try to do is to find reference points that are topical, but not explicitly in the fantasy space. If you can find a historical character, or biography, or recounting of a particular war, battle or political situation that deliberately couldn't be "lifted" or copied directly into your setting, it…

There are aspects of games that can be made more realistic, without every part of gaming needing to be more realistic.

The Tseldora Set gives roughly 24% more souls upon killing enemies/bosses - taking it off increases your stamina recovery, due to less weight. Hence why it is taken off in between bosses.

Hit it like you mean it!

Mordor took me less than 30 hours to 99%. The only holdouts are 1 or 2 of those Slave missions that are boring. Not worth my time.