Overview
Shadow of the Erdtree is FromSoftware's expansion to the award-winning Elden Ring, and it's one of the most ambitious pieces of DLC in recent memory. Set in the Land of Shadow — a realm hidden from the base game's world — it introduces new bosses, weapons, areas, and lore that deepen the already rich Elden Ring universe.
But it's also uncompromisingly hard. If you're coming in expecting a gentle tour of new content, prepare to be humbled repeatedly.
What's New in the Land of Shadow
- 8+ major boss encounters, including some of the most technically demanding in FromSoftware history
- A sprawling new map with layered verticality rivaling the base game
- New weapon categories including the Great Katana and Backhand Blades
- Scadutree Fragments — a new progression system that boosts damage dealt and reduces damage received in the DLC area
- Dozens of new armor sets, spells, and ashes of war
Gameplay: Brutal, Beautiful, Rewarding
The Scadutree Fragment system deserves special mention. It solves a design challenge unique to Soulsborne DLC: how do you make content hard enough for veterans without it being impossible for those who just reached the entry point? By exploring thoroughly and collecting fragments, you gradually tune the difficulty to something manageable — without ever making it easy.
Boss design is exceptional. Fights like Messmer the Impaler are masterclasses in telegraphing and pattern recognition. Others are more controversial — relying on aggressive camera-unfriendly arenas — but even those deliver a rush upon completion.
Visuals & World Design
The Land of Shadow is visually distinct from the Lands Between. Expect muted golds, deep shadows, and a haunting beauty throughout. The area known as the Shadow Keep is one of the most impressive dungeon environments FromSoftware has created.
Verdict
| Category | Score |
|---|---|
| World Design | ★★★★★ |
| Boss Variety | ★★★★☆ |
| New Weapons & Builds | ★★★★★ |
| Difficulty Balance | ★★★★☆ |
| Value for Price | ★★★★☆ |
Shadow of the Erdtree is essential for Elden Ring fans and one of the best expansions in the action-RPG genre. It's not for everyone — newcomers to the series should finish the base game first and come prepared — but for those it's designed for, it's a remarkable achievement.
Reviewed on PC. The DLC requires owning Elden Ring and defeating Mohg, Lord of Blood to access.