Elden Ring incorporates elements of Japanese folklore primarily through references to the Umibozu, a type of sea spirit, found within the game's development files. While not a fully realized in-game enemy or character, its presence as an unused NPC suggests an intended connection.
The Umibozu in Japanese Folklore
The Umibozu (海坊主), which translates to "sea monk" or "sea priest," are prominent figures in Japanese mythology, embodying the perils of the ocean. These sea spirits are traditionally depicted with distinct characteristics:
- Appearance: They often manifest as colossal, dark, humanoid silhouettes that rise ominously from the depths of the ocean. Their form is typically described as round and black, resembling a monk's shaved head.
- Behavior: Umibozu are notorious for their malevolent actions. They are said to attack ships, often shattering vessels and drowning sailors, sometimes by demanding a bucket or barrel that they fill with water to sink the boat.
- Significance: They represent the unpredictable and dangerous nature of the sea, serving as a cautionary tale for sailors and fishermen. They are sometimes believed to be the vengeful spirits of drowned priests or powerful sea creatures.
Umibozu's Connection to Elden Ring
The link between Elden Ring and Japanese folklore lies in the internal game data, which contains references to an unused NPC designated as "Umibozu." This discovery indicates that the developers at FromSoftware, known for their deep and often cryptic lore, at one point considered integrating this specific element of Japanese mythology into the vast world of the Lands Between.
Although the Umibozu did not become an active part of the final game, its existence within the game's development assets highlights the diverse cultural influences that shaped Elden Ring's unique atmosphere and monstrous inhabitants. It serves as a fascinating insight into the creative process and the potential thematic directions the game could have taken.
