When it comes to expanding the horizons of already massive and intricately designed worlds, the fine folks at FromSoftware understand the assignment. Their latest endeavor, the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC for the iconic game Elden Ring, is no exception. The anticipation surrounding this addition is substantial, stoked by the invitation from Bandai Namco to experience the first three hours of gameplay in an almost surreal setting — a Parisian church turned gaming haven.
Embarking on this journey, players find themselves in The Land of Shadow, accessible through a new portal in the Mohgwyn Palace. Here, a giant cocoon houses the portal, marked distinctively by the hand of Miquella reaching out. The atmosphere upon entry is tellingly somber and eerie. What used to be a vibrant land now lays desolate, haunted by decay and overshadowed by perpetual night. Sparse enemies roam the fields, with demonic figures and gargoyles sparingly placed to disrupt the quietude of the ruinous landscapes. As one advances towards key landmarks, the enemy density perceptibly increases, heralding the classic challenge that Elden Ring enthusiasts have come to cherish.
Elden Ring has been revered for its challenging combat and intricate world-building, and Shadow of the Erdtree holds true to these elements while introducing incremental innovations. Players choose between three different classes—warrior, knight, or sorcerer, each standing at level 150—to tackle the DLC’s nuanced challenges. The exploration begins expansively, presenting the core storyline intertwined with optional areas ripe for discovery.
One notable innovation in the DLC is the Scadutree Blessing. This mechanic offers tactical advantages by enhancing players’ abilities to inflict and resist damage, and to fortify their Spirit Ashes. These blessings, however, are confined to the DLC, retaining the original game balance.
The initial area of The Land of Shadow also teases the integration of tactical elements through new golden crosses appearing in the world and on maps. These crosses purportedly trace Miquella’s journey, yet their full purpose remains shrouded in mystery, offering just a glimpse during the preview encounter.
FromSoftware enriches the combat experience with more than just new enemies; it layers added complexity with fresh Ashes of War and improved consumables tailored for quicker deployment. These additions promise a dynamic retooling of the player’s strategic approach, keeping even the most seasoned warriors on their toes.
Amid the exploration and skirmishes, players encounter legacy dungeons and ferocious new bosses, each presenting a formidable challenge. With 10 major boss fights reported and over 100 new weapons across eight categories to be unveiled, the DLC’s scope is as ambitious as it is thrilling. These initial hours of gameplay provide just a hint of the deep and engaging content that Shadow of the Erdtree aims to deliver.
The setting for this preview—an old church in Paris—contrasted starkly with the dark, foreboding visuals of the game. Gaming stations, arrayed where pews might have been, offered a mix of keyboard, mouse, and console controllers, under the haunting gaze of a demon statue erected on the altar. This choice of location, while unorthodox, underscored the immersive and otherworldly appeal of Elden Ring, accentuated by the thematic drapes and ambient lighting mingling with the church’s stained glass artistry.
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