Elden Ring is undoubtedly one of the most impressive games of the modern era and while any game studio may find trouble trying to replicate it, developer FromSoftware has mastered that formula. So you will be happy to know that the first major DLC, Shadow of the Erdtre, continues to impress in many, if not all of the same ways as the base game.
Shadow of the Erdtree is notably tougher with plenty of new weapons, armor, spells, and more to help you along your journey. And despite its shorter length (it is still very long) when compared to the base game, new foes and dungeons will make you want to explore every single inch of the Realm of Shadow.
Set in the foreboding Realm of Shadow and governed by the rigid laws of the Golden Order, “Shadow of the Erdtree” delivers an enthralling extension to the Elden Ring universe. Fans of the main game will find the same excitement in exploration and discovery, with a narrative that delves deeper into the lore, focusing on Miquella’s quest beyond the Golden Order into the enigmatic Realm of Shadow. This expansion revitalizes the game with fresh gameplay twists and narrative layers, ensuring that each hard-fought battle against formidable foes feels as rewarding as ever.
One of the standout features of “Shadow of the Erdtree” is its enemy and boss design. Players must meticulously study and develop strategies to overcome the myriad of challenges posed by these new adversaries. The expansion introduces new weapons, spells, and items that encourage diverse combat approaches, allowing players to experiment with different styles and techniques. The exploration aspect capitalizes on FromSoftware’s prowess in crafting memorable worlds, with each dense and diverse location offering a unique atmosphere and aesthetic.
In terms of world-building and creativity, “Shadow of the Erdtree” is a remarkable feat. It completes the Elden Ring story by adding intricate details and enriching the dark fantasy universe that players have come to love. The expansion is a significant achievement, presenting an unmissable experience that stands toe-to-toe with the brilliance of the original game. It demands meticulous preparation and strategic thinking, especially when facing the later bosses that walk a fine line between challenging and seemingly insurmountable.
With over 40 bosses, including 10 major fights, “Shadow of the Erdtree” offers substantial content to sink your teeth into. The Realm of Shadow, while not vast, is densely layered with multiple paths and hidden areas that maintain a balance between discovery and direction without overwhelming the player. The main quest follows Miquella’s journey, with large crosses subtly guiding players through plot-critical paths, ensuring a cohesive and engaging experience.
Beyond the main questline, the expansion introduces new NPCs and questlines that enrich the overall journey. Players can explore various new builds, weapons, spells, ashes of war, spirit ash summons, and talismans, catering to different playstyles and preferences. The new power-scaling system within the Realm of Shadow balances challenge and progression, providing a sense of growth and rewarding exploration.
Overall, “Shadow of the Erdtree” condenses the full Elden Ring experience into a compact, end-game adventure. It retains the masterful open-world design of the main game while introducing new elements that both challenge and delight players. The expansion’s freedom, intricate design, and innovative additions make it a worthy continuation of the Elden Ring saga. For fans of the original game, this expansion is a must-play, delivering a rich and satisfying experience that stands as a testament to FromSoftware’s storytelling and game design prowess.
