Is Elden Ring DLC: Shadow of the Erdtree worth playing?

Jun-19-2024

 

 

Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree is a $40 expansion, coming out on June 21. Many posters have mentioned that this game is highly challenging and not suitable for casual players. It seems to be a tradition for FromSoftware's souls-like DLC releases to present greater challenges than the original game. However, similar to Elden Ring, the difficulty level of Shadow of the Erdtree is somewhat inconsistent. Faced with such a situation, is Elden Ring DLC: Shadow of the Erdtree worth playing?  

 

 

The answer of mine is yes, my reasons are as follows. Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree offers a robust expansion that enriches the original game with significant new content. It adds over 100 weapons, 10 major bosses and multiple legacy dungeons in a new playing area around the size of Limgrave, the starting zone in Elden Ring.

 

 

Explore the Enchanting Depths - Discover the Land of Shadow

Dive into the latest expansion, the Land of Shadow, presenting an expansive and intricate realm filled with landscapes that echo the aesthetic wonder of the original game. From serene valleys and meandering rivers to distinctive environments, this new area promises to capture the imaginations of players. Meticulously crafted, it tantalizes explorers with interconnected levels and concealed paths, beckoning the intrepid to unravel its many secrets.

 

At first glance, the map might undersell the true scale of the Realm of Shadow. However, hidden within its layered design, like an intricately woven tapestry, lie paths leading skyward to hanging ruins, plunging into unseen depths, or even veering in unexpected, exhilarating directions. A chance discovery such as an obscure ladder nestled in a castle's remote corner could embark you on an adventure that unfolds into revealing entirely new, previously inaccessible territories after an hour-long journey.

 

Navigating this labyrinth, you will never felt disoriented. The core objective of this DLC is to chase the trail of Miquella, the demigod who relinquished his mortal shell to vanish into the Shadow Realm. His journey is marked by conspicuous crosses serving as subtle yet clear signposts. These markers indicate when you draw close to a critical juncture in the overarching narrative, offering guidance without diminishing the thrill of exploration.

 

Enhanced by its breathtaking visuals and challenging gameplay, the Land of Shadow stands as an electrifying addition to the series. It promises to enthrall and delight fans with its rich narrative and unforgettable adventures.

 

 

Confront the challenges of new bosses and foes in the land of shadow

One of the most thrilling aspects of exploring the land of shadow is the chance to confront over ten distinct and formidable bosses. Each boss encounter is unique, presenting challenges that will put your combat prowess and strategic thinking to the ultimate test. Standout adversaries like the divine beast dancing lion and the twin moon knight offer rigorous skill examinations right from the early stages of the game.

 

These formidable antagonists demand adaptability and a reliance on evasion and tactical combat. Enemies within the land of shadow are notably nimble and swift, requiring players to be at their agile best. As lethal foes lurk around every corner, prepare to engage in intense battles that will push your combat abilities to their limit. These electrifying confrontations with new bosses and enemies add an extra layer of excitement and challenge to the game, ensuring a constant engagement that entertains throughout.

 

Among the notable bosses are the divine beast dancing lion and the twin moon knight, both of which pose tough tests of skill right from the beginning. These challenging opponents require players to adapt and depend on dodging and strategic fighting, as the enemies in the land of shadow are exceptionally quick and agile. With deadly adversaries lying in wait around every turn, players must ready themselves for intense combat scenarios that will stretch their fighting capabilities to the utmost.

 

Beyond the main quest, a multitude of new npcs awaits, including seven disciples of miquella encountered at various points in the adventure. Each disciple has their own side questline intertwined with the primary narrative, some of which can influence later boss fights based on your choices. Even for relative casual fans of elden ring's extensive lore, like myself, the deeper storyline offers remarkable revelations towards the conclusion that truly make the effort worthwhile.

 

 

Get Ready to New Weapons and Combat Mechanics

Get ready to arm yourself with over 100 new weapons in the land of shadow expansion! Elden Ring DLC: Shadow of the Erdtree has rolled out eight exciting new categories of weaponry, and at the top of the list is a powerful martial arts class. This innovative addition brings a new level of combat technique, allowing players to explore unarmed fighting styles that will take your battle strategies to the next level.

 

Not only do these fresh weapons bring unique attributes to the table, but they also open up a world of new combat experiences. Every weapon has its own distinct flair, ensuring that gameplay remains dynamic and engaging. Whether you're a sword master or prefer something a little more eclectic, there's a fighting style waiting for you to discover it.

 

 

Immerse in An Enriched Tapestry of Lore and Quests

The allure of Elden Ring DLC: Shadow of the Erdtree extends far beyond mere action - it delves profoundly into the game's intricate lore, enhancing the storytelling with layers of depth and complexity. As you join Miquella on her journey, you'll meet a cast of captivating characters and engage in side quests that add depth and complexity to the overarching narrative. By exploring and interacting with the world around them, you will uncover the unfolding story one piece at a time.

 

And don’t forget about those side missions! They are not meant to distract attention; they're woven expertly into the core narrative, rewarding players who are willing to venture beyond the main path. These quests offer more than just a break from the main storyline - they provide insights into the broader world of the game, making your adventure through the Shadow of the Erdtree even more enriching.

 

 

Exploring the Shadow Realm: A New Adventure Awaits

As you step into the mysterious Shadow Realm, get ready to face new challenges and uncover hidden treasures. With the introduction of the "Shadow of the Erdtree" expansion, you are in for an exciting journey filled with discovery and adventure. One of the standout features of this expansion is the Shadow Realm Blessing system, a game-changer that provides players with a powerful tool to survive and thrive in this new environment.

 

The Shadow Realm Blessing is a unique consumable that offers a stackable buff. This buff is no ordinary enhancement; it has the remarkable ability to negate a portion of incoming damage while simultaneously boosting the damage you deal to enemies. It's like having a personal shield that strikes back! Players can find these blessings scattered throughout the world and activate them at Sites of Grace, strategic locations that serve as checkpoints and healing sanctuaries.

 

Critics have been blown away by "Shadow of the Erdtree," with many praising its incredible sense of discovery, meticulously designed dungeons, and deep combat mechanics. Game Informer awarded it a score of 9.8/10, commending its exploratory essence and engaging gameplay. IGN went even further, granting it a perfect score of 10/10 and hailing it as a fantastic challenge that seamlessly continues the base game's legacy. PC Gamer also sang its praises, scoring it 95/100 and highlighting its masterful design and thematic expansion.

 

 

Final Thoughts

If you're a fan of Elden Ring, it's challenging to discourage trying out Shadow of the Erdtree. This expansion introduces new characters, items, storylines, foes (especially for Jarburg enthusiasts), and everything else you would anticipate from a FromSoftware add-on. The $40 price might seem high initially, but it appears reasonable when you consider the extensive content provided. I am confident that, despite the numerous hours I have already invested in the game, there is still much more to discover. Shadow of the Erdtree is an impressive expansion of Elden Ring's universe, it is worth playing.