Challenging Art Forms: The Legacy of Bloodborne and Modernist Movements

In the world of gaming, some titles are celebrated for their accessibility, while others carve out a niche by embracing complexity. Bloodborne, marking its 10th anniversary this year, stands as a bold example of the latter. This game thrusts players into an enigmatic universe without hand-holding, challenging them to decipher its mysteries through trial and error. While many fans of FromSoftware's intricate designs have embraced this approach, others, like IGN's Dan Stapleton, found the experience laborious and unengaging. Public PlayStation data reveals that fewer than half of all players conquer the game’s opening challenge, a towering antlered beast, while only a quarter progress far enough to defeat Mergo’s Wet Nurse, a grotesque guardian blocking access to one of the game’s basic conclusions.

Art forms that defy convention often provoke polarized reactions. A century ago, avant-garde figures such as Picasso, Munch, and Duchamp perplexed and provoked audiences with creations that stretched the boundaries of their respective mediums. For instance, Duchamp's "Nude Descending a Staircase" drew ridicule from critics who likened it to "an explosion in a shingle factory." Similarly, modernist literature demanded more active engagement from readers, which not everyone was prepared to provide. These artistic endeavors mirror the ethos behind Bloodborne, where the creators prioritize depth and challenge over immediate gratification, inviting players to engage deeply rather than passively consume.

Beyond mere entertainment, both Bloodborne and these pioneering works of art underscore the value of perseverance and intellectual engagement. They encourage audiences to move beyond surface-level impressions and embrace the process of discovery. By doing so, they foster a deeper appreciation for craftsmanship and innovation, reminding us that true growth often lies on the other side of difficulty. Whether navigating the labyrinthine streets of Yharnam or contemplating the abstract lines of a cubist masterpiece, the journey itself becomes an integral part of the reward.