The much-anticipated “Shadow of the Erdtree” DLC for Elden Ring has finally been released, marking the first major expansion for FromSoftware’s critically acclaimed open-world RPG. Available from June 21, 2024, the DLC introduces a plethora of new content, including new areas, bosses, weapons, and a unique buff system. However, early reviews on Steam have been mixed, with players praising the content but critiquing certain gameplay elements.
New Adventures in the Land of Shadow
“Shadow of the Erdtree” takes players into the Land of Shadow, where they will encounter over ten new full bosses and additional side bosses. Notable encounters include the Divine Beast Dancing Lion and the Twin Moon Knight, each presenting unique challenges that require players to adapt their strategies. The fast-paced and agile enemies ensure that players will need to stay on their toes, utilizing the dodge button frequently to survive.
Expanded Arsenal
The DLC also brings around one hundred new weapons to discover, with eight brand-new weapon types, including the innovative Martial Arts category. This new weapon type allows players to engage in combat bare-handed, delivering powerful punches and kicks that can break enemies’ stances. This adds a fresh layer of combat dynamics, encouraging players to experiment with different playstyles.
Shadow Realm Blessing
A new system called Shadow Realm Blessing has been introduced, offering players a way to mitigate some of the DLC’s difficulty. By collecting Scadutree Fragments, players can gain stackable buffs that reduce incoming damage and increase their own damage output within the Land of Shadow. This system is designed to balance the challenging new content, though its use is entirely optional for those seeking a tougher experience.
Mixed Reviews
Despite the exciting new content, the DLC has garnered mixed reviews on Steam. Players have lauded the intricate design and challenging bosses but have also voiced concerns over certain gameplay mechanics and balance issues. The complexity and difficulty of the new enemies have been highlighted as both a positive and a negative, depending on player preference.
Overall, “Shadow of the Erdtree” is shaping up to be a significant addition to Elden Ring, offering both new and returning players a wealth of content to explore. Whether these initial mixed reviews will affect the DLC’s long-term reception remains to be seen, but it’s clear that FromSoftware continues to push the boundaries of their game design.
