How do I access the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC?

To access the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, you typically need to defeat specific late-game bosses in the base Elden Ring game. More precise details will be revealed closer to launch, but expect it to be similar to previous FromSoftware DLCs.

Do I need to start a New Game+ to play the DLC?

No, you should be able to access the DLC from your existing save file, provided you meet the entry requirements. However, many players choose NG+ for a fresh challenge.

What kind of new content can I expect?

Expect a vast new area, numerous new bosses, a variety of new weapons, armor, spells, and Ashes of War, as well as significant additions to the game's lore and story.

Is the DLC harder than the base game?

FromSoftware DLCs are often designed for players who have already completed a significant portion of the base game, and thus often feature increased difficulty. Expect a significant challenge.

Will there be new achievements/trophies?

It is highly likely that Shadow of the Erdtree will introduce new achievements or trophies related to its new content, bosses, and story elements.

Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree

In short: Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree is an RPG game released in 2024 by FromSoftware, available on PC, PlayStation and Xbox. Our score: 9.5/10 (highly recommended). Lowest price we found right now: $35.17.

An upcoming expansion to the critically acclaimed action RPG Elden Ring, promising new areas, bosses, equipment, and story elements. It is set to expand the already vast world of the Lands Between.

Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree is the highly anticipated expansion to FromSoftware's acclaimed action RPG, Elden Ring. Set to release in 2024, this DLC promises to further enrich the sprawling world of the Lands Between with new challenges, mysteries, and lore. Players can expect to delve into uncharted territories, encounter formidable new bosses, and discover a wealth of fresh equipment, spells, and Ashes of War to customize their Tarnished warrior. The expansion aims to build upon the core gameplay loop that made the original Elden Ring a global phenomenon, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience for both veterans and those returning to the game. The narrative of Shadow of the Erdtree is shrouded in mystery, as is typical with FromSoftware titles, but trailers and teasers hint at a focus on Miquella, an Empyrean and sibling to Malenia, whose fate has long been a subject of speculation among fans. This expansion is expected to shed light on some of the deeper lore of Elden Ring, potentially exploring events predating the main game or revealing hidden aspects of its complex mythology. Players will likely find themselves traversing a shadowed realm, perhaps a dreamscape or an alternate dimension, where the veil between reality and myth is thin. FromSoftware is known for its intricate world design, demanding combat, and obscure storytelling, and Shadow of the Erdtree is poised to deliver on all fronts. The new areas are expected to be as meticulously crafted and vi…

Game details

Developer: FromSoftware
Publisher: Bandai Namco Entertainment
Release year: 2024
Platforms: PC, PlayStation, Xbox
Category: RPG

Our review

Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree is an exceptional expansion that masterfully builds upon the foundation of the acclaimed base game. It introduces a sprawling new region filled with intricate level design, challenging new enemies, and truly unforgettable boss encounters. The lore deepens significantly, offering satisfying answers to long-standing questions while posing intriguing new ones. The combat remains as tight and rewarding as ever, with new weapon types and spells adding fresh dimensions to character builds. FromSoftware has once again delivered an experience that pushes the boundaries of the action RPG genre, providing many hours of engaging content that will test even the most seasoned Tarnished.

Pros

Vast and intricately designed new region
Challenging and creative new boss encounters
Deepens existing lore and introduces compelling new narratives
New weapons, spells, and customization options
Exceptional atmosphere and world-building

Cons

Difficulty can be punishing for newcomers
Performance issues on some platforms (initial release)
Some areas can feel overwhelming to navigate

FAQ

How do I access the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC?: To access the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, you typically need to defeat specific late-game bosses in the base Elden Ring game. More precise details will be revealed closer to launch, but expect it to be similar to previous FromSoftware DLCs.
Do I need to start a New Game+ to play the DLC?: No, you should be able to access the DLC from your existing save file, provided you meet the entry requirements. However, many players choose NG+ for a fresh challenge.
What kind of new content can I expect?: Expect a vast new area, numerous new bosses, a variety of new weapons, armor, spells, and Ashes of War, as well as significant additions to the game's lore and story.
Is the DLC harder than the base game?: FromSoftware DLCs are often designed for players who have already completed a significant portion of the base game, and thus often feature increased difficulty. Expect a significant challenge.
Will there be new achievements/trophies?: It is highly likely that Shadow of the Erdtree will introduce new achievements or trophies related to its new content, bosses, and story elements.

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Last updated: 01/04/2026