The best parts of Elden Ring were the parts where it stopped being Elden Ring. The legacy dungeons are where the game shines, and especially Stormveil is fantastic . Whenever I think of Elden Ring I think "God I wish the whole game was like Stormveil."
I don't think it's the most beautiful game ever, and I don't think it's the best game ever either. It's a very good game, a worthwhile experience (though just once - I don't really feel a desire to go back) and I think it deserves it's GOTY. We shouldn't overhype it though.