Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree - Everything You Need to Know About the Upcoming Expansion

The gaming world is set ablaze with anticipation as Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree gears up for its highly anticipated launch on June 21st, 2024. FromSoftware's latest expansion promises to be a monumental addition to the already captivating world of Elden Ring, drawing players back into its mystical realm with a treasure trove of new content and experiences. With an emphasis on enriching the game's lore, Shadow of the Erdtree delves deeper into the intricate narratives and mythos that fans have come to cherish. Beyond its narrative depth, the expansion introduces innovative gameplay mechanics that promise to challenge even the most seasoned adventurers.

Expansion Overview

Release Date: June 21st, 2024

Platforms: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Steam

(Physical editions available for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and Steam only)

Announcement Date: February 28th, 2023

Type: Paid Expansion (Requires base Elden Ring)


Pricing:


Standard Edition: $39.99 USD

Premium Bundle Edition: $49.99 USD

Physical Collector's Edition: $249.99 USD

What’s New in Shadow of the Erdtree

New Storyline

Venturing beyond the Lands Between, players are summoned to the mysterious Land of Shadow by Empyrean Miquella. This new area, veiled by the enigmatic Erdtree, is ripe for exploration, offering dark secrets and intricate lore that promise to deepen your connection to the Elden Ring universe. As players uncover these mysteries, they will interact with characters who follow Miquella’s footsteps, each harboring their own hidden agendas.


"Pure and radiant, he wields love to shrive clean the hearts of men. There is nothing more terrifying. In that forsaken place, blood must spill. The blood of your fellows, the Erdtree faithful. They were never saints. They just happened to be on the losing side of a war."


These evocative words set the tone for the expansion, highlighting the intense and morally complex narrative that awaits players.

Detailed Features of Shadow of the Erdtree

New Weapons and Shields

Equip yourself with powerful new weapons and shields to face the dangers of the Land of Shadow:


• Igon's Greatbow

• Greatsword of Solitude

• Rellana's Twinblade

• Bone Bow

• Milady

• Anvil Hammer

• Igon's Harpoon

• Fire Knight's Greatsword

• Smithscript Greathammer

• Great Katana

• Smithscript Spear

• Smithscript Axe

• Backhand Blade

• Red Bear's Claw


New Bosses

Prepare for epic battles against new and fearsome bosses:


• Divine Beast Dancing Lion

• Messmer the Impaler

• Rellana

• Curseblade Labirith


New Ashes of War and Talismans

Harness new abilities and enhancements with unique Ashes of War and Talismans:


• New Ashes of War: [To be determined]

• New Talismans: Ailment Talisman, Enraged Divine Beast, Rellana's Cameo, Blade of Mercy


New Upgrade Materials and Spirit Ashes

Upgrade your equipment and summon new allies with these materials and ashes:


• Upgrade Materials: Revered Spirit Ash, Scadurtree Fragments

• Spirit Ashes: Andreas, Black Knight Commander, Gravebird, Fingercreeper, Demi-Human Swordsman • Yosh, Curseblade Meera

Speculations and Story Theories

Miquella’s Role:

Miquella, who has stripped himself of his physical form, plays a central role as a guide in the Land of Shadow. The expansion may explore his potential ascent to godhood, with the Tarnished possibly serving as his lord or consort. Miquella’s complex relationship with the Erdtree and his mysterious intentions add depth to the narrative.


Messmer’s Influence:

Messmer the Impaler, a character who ruthlessly pursues those devoid of the Erdtree’s grace, is poised to be a significant antagonist. His connection to Marika and his actions during a shadowy war provide a counterpoint to Miquella’s protective nature, enriching the story with conflict and intrigue.


Land of Shadow’s Significance:

The Land of Shadow may represent a sundered part of the Elden Ring, hidden away by Marika. The expansion’s events likely occur in the present timeline, further exploring the Erdtree’s influence and the complex dynamics of grace and power.

Trailers and Insights

Gameplay Trailer (February 21, 2024):

Story Trailer (May 21, 2024):

Golden Threads and Birth Imagery: Suggestive of new factions or demigods emerging from the Erdtree’s shadow.

Creation and Conflict: The trailer hints at the origins of the Erdtree and the ensuing shadowy war, setting the stage for the player’s journey.

Miquella’s Transformation: The guiding voice and visual cues indicate Miquella’s profound transformation and his potential role in guiding the Tarnished.


"Mother, wouldst thou truly Lordship sanction, in one so bereft of light? I presume you, too, are keen to know. Just what kind Miquella is doing here. Those stripped of the Grace of Gold shall all meet death. In the embrace of Messmer's flame. Come, now. Touch the withered arm, and travel to the realm of shadow. I will not be far behind. May we meet again."


This compelling narration teases the rich story content and dark atmosphere that players can expect in the expansion.


Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree promises to be a groundbreaking expansion, offering players an immersive experience filled with new challenges, deep lore, and innovative gameplay. Mark your calendars for June 21st, 2024, and prepare to embark on an epic adventure in the shadowy realms of Elden Ring. Stay tuned to official channels for updates, and get ready to dive into the mysteries of the Land of Shadow. What are you most excited about in this expansion? Share your thoughts and theories in the comments below!

Where to Buy Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree

Digital Editions

PlayStation Store

Microsoft Store

Steam page

Comments

Leave a Comment