Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree was released on June 21, 2024 and invites players back to the Lands Between for a new adventure filled with challenges and mysteries. This expansion introduces a fresh storyline, an expanded map, new weapons and armor, and formidable bosses. Players can look forward to exploring new areas, battling new enemies, and unraveling an intriguing storyline, which features Mesmer as a formidable new villain. The expansion also adds various weapons, spells, and armor to enhance the gameplay experience.
Shadow of the Erdtree is available for multiple platforms, including PlayStation, Xbox, and PC via Steam. Gamers should prepare for an exciting adventure in the Land of Shadow.
In this article, we provide an overview of what players can expect in Shadow of the Erdtree, along with tips for navigating the new content and insights into the enduring appeal of the Elden Ring universe. As the game’s first major expansion, Shadow of the Erdtree promises to deliver new challenges and content to the acclaimed action RPG.
Exploring the Lands Between Once More
Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree is the highly anticipated expansion for the award-winning action RPG, Elden Ring. Released in June 2024, this DLC adds new areas to explore, bosses to conquer, and mysteries to unravel in the Lands Between.
What’s New in Shadow of the Erdtree?
While FromSoftware has been tight-lipped about specifics, here’s what we know so far:
- New Storyline: Shadow of the Erdtree features a brand-new storyline that expands upon the lore and events of the main game. Players will encounter new characters, uncover hidden secrets, and face fresh challenges.
- Expanded Map: The Lands Between has grown. The expansion introduces new areas to explore, filled with unique enemies, dungeons, and rewards.
- New Weapons and Armor: Players can discover and equip new weapons and armor sets to enhance their combat prowess and customize their Tarnished.
- Challenging Bosses: Prepare to face formidable new bosses that will test your skills and strategy.
Early Impressions and Speculations
Initial reactions to Shadow of the Erdtree have been positive. Players praise the expansion for its atmospheric environments, intriguing storyline, and challenging gameplay that stays true to the core Elden Ring experience. Some speculate that the expansion may delve into Miquella’s lore, a key character shrouded in mystery in the base game.
Tips for Tarnished Adventurers
- Prepare for a Challenge: Shadow of the Erdtree is designed to be a challenging experience, even for seasoned Elden Ring players. Make sure your character is well-equipped and leveled up before venturing into the new content.
- Explore Thoroughly: The new areas are filled with secrets and hidden paths. Take your time to explore every nook and cranny to discover valuable items and uncover hidden lore.
- Experiment with New Builds: The new weapons and armor offer opportunities to experiment with different character builds and playstyles. Try out new combinations to find what works best for you.
The Enduring Appeal of Elden Ring
Elden Ring’s success stems from its captivating world-building, challenging yet rewarding gameplay, and sense of freedom and exploration. Shadow of the Erdtree builds upon this foundation, offering players another opportunity to immerse themselves in the Lands Between and create their own legends.
FromSoftware’s Legacy of Challenging Games
FromSoftware, the developer behind Elden Ring, is renowned for its challenging action RPGs. Games like Dark Souls, Bloodborne, and Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice are known for their demanding combat, intricate level design, and rich lore. These titles have garnered a dedicated fanbase that appreciates the sense of accomplishment that comes with overcoming their difficult challenges.
Pricing and Availability
As anticipation builds for ELDEN RING: Shadow of the Erdtree, potential Tarnished are undoubtedly curious about pricing and how to access this new chapter. Several key questions arise regarding its availability and requirements:
Is Shadow of the Erdtree free?
No, Shadow of the Erdtree is a paid expansion. It is not a free update to the base ELDEN RING game. Players will need to purchase it separately to access the new content.
Do you need the Elden Ring game to play Shadow of the Erdtree?
Yes, Shadow of the Erdtree is an expansion and requires the base ELDEN RING game to play. It is not a standalone product. You must own ELDEN RING on the platform of your choice (e.g., Steam, PlayStation, Xbox) before you can play the expansion.
Current Purchase Options:
Currently, the expansion is available for purchase on Steam as a standalone product, requiring ownership of the base ELDEN RING game.
Steam:
- ELDEN RING Shadow of the Erdtree: $39.99
- https://store.steampowered.com/app/2778580/ELDEN_RING_Shadow_of_the_Erdtree/
At present, this is the only available option on Steam. This straightforward approach simplifies the purchase process: players who own ELDEN RING can directly acquire the expansion for a set price.
Will there be other purchase options?
It remains to be seen whether alternative bundles or editions will be offered closer to or after launch. Possibilities include:
- Bundled editions: A package containing both the base ELDEN RING game and the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion, potentially offered at a discounted price for new players.
- Deluxe or Collector’s Editions: These could include additional digital or physical content alongside the expansion.
For now, $39.99 is the confirmed price of admission to the Land of Shadow on PC via Steam for those who already own the base game. Players should stay tuned for further announcements regarding potential future purchase options across all platforms.
Key Takeaways
- Shadow of the Erdtree expands Elden Ring with new areas, enemies, and gear
- The DLC launched on June 21, 2024, for major gaming platforms
- Players will face a new villain named Mesmer in this expansion
Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree Launch Date
FromSoftware’s Elden Ring expansion arrived on June 21, 2024. The DLC is available across multiple platforms, including PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC.
Players can expect new challenges, enemies, and areas to explore in the Land of Shadow. The expansion promises to expand on the rich lore of the Lands Between, potentially delving into the mysterious Miquella’s story. With less than two months until release, excitement builds for this new chapter in the Elden Ring saga.
Common Questions About Shadow of the Erdtree
Release Timing for the New Expansion
Shadow of the Erdtree is set to launch on June 21, 2024. Players can start their adventure at midnight in their local time zone. Some regions may get early access on June 20, depending on their time zone.
Platform Availability at Launch
The expansion will be available on all major platforms simultaneously. This includes:
- PlayStation 5
- PlayStation 4
- Xbox Series X|S
- Xbox One
- PC
Regional and Platform Release Differences
There are no significant differences in release dates across regions or platforms. The global release ensures all players can access the content at the same time, regardless of location or gaming system.
Expansion Pricing
Pricing details for Shadow of the Erdtree have not been officially announced. Based on similar expansions, players can expect a price range between $20 to $40. The final cost will likely depend on the amount of new content provided.
Access for Existing Game Owners
Shadow of the Erdtree will be a separate purchase. Players who own the base game will need to buy the expansion to access its content. It is not included as a free update to the original Elden Ring.
New Content vs Original Game
Shadow of the Erdtree introduces:
- A new map area
- 70 new weapons
- 10 new shields
- 39 new talismans
- 14 new sorceries
- 28 new incantations
- 20 new spirit ashes
- 25 new ashes of war
- 30 new armor sets
- New consumables and craftable items
This expansion aims to build on the core gameplay of Elden Ring while offering fresh challenges and exploration opportunities.
