Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree is not only a strong contender for Game of the Year this year – it’s starting to emerge as one of the favorites. And even though it’s just a DLC (and some feel like that disqualifies it for GOTY), its high quality and influence in gaming is undeniable and unmatched.
The fact that it is “just a DLC” should make us think about what we consider “games” today. Even when stacked up against competitors, Shadow of the Erdtree stands out because of its vast gameplay, deep lore, and good reviews. So while we wait to see how this year’s game awards go, we can rest assured as fans of Elden Ring that the long time wait for the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion did not disappoint.
Shadow of the Erdtree’s eligibility for GOTY has sparked debate, but its quality is undeniable. It surpasses many full-fledged games in terms of content, innovation, and storytelling. It sets a new benchmark for expansions, demonstrating that DLCs can deliver experiences that rival, and even surpass, full games. Whether it wins or not, Shadow of the Erdtree has already cemented its legacy as one of the greatest expansions ever created.
Could Shadow of the Erdtree Win Game of the Year?
What Is Shadow of the Erdtree
The Shadow of the Erdtree DLC adds a new land to explore to Elden Ring, separate from The Lands Between, with new challenges and mysteries. It brings a lot of new content, including 70 new weapons, 39 new talismans, and 42 new spells. These will enhance combat options and character builds. Additionally, the expansion introduces 20 new Spirit Ashes and 25 new Ashes of War, adding more strategy to the game. Shadow of the Erdtree also offers new lore and story elements for players to discover. To access the DLC, players must first defeat Starscourge Radahn and Mohg, Lord of Blood in the main game.
A Contender in the Ring
Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree has emerged as a strong contender for Game of the Year 2024. This is despite it being a DLC, not a full game. It has garnered significant attention and praise. The DLC offers a substantial amount of new content. This includes new areas, bosses, and storylines. It expands on the beloved Elden Ring universe. This has captivated both critics and players.
Why It Could Win
Several factors contribute to Shadow of the Erdtree’s Game of the Year potential:
- Expansion of the Elden Ring Universe: The DLC adds depth and breadth to the already rich world of Elden Ring. It provides new insights into the lore and history. This deepens the player’s connection to the game.
- Challenging Gameplay: FromSoftware is known for its challenging games. Shadow of the Erdtree continues this tradition. It offers formidable new bosses and encounters. This tests players’ skills and rewards perseverance.
- Positive Reception: The DLC has been met with critical acclaim. Reviewers praise its immersive world, engaging story, and rewarding gameplay. This positive reception strengthens its case for Game of the Year.
A New Standard for Expansions
Shadow of the Erdtree isn’t just another DLC; it redefines what an expansion can be. It’s being hailed as the best expansion ever made, surpassing even FromSoftware’s own high standards. Previous FromSoftware expansions, while excellent, were often self-contained and detached from the main game. Shadow of the Erdtree breaks this mold by seamlessly integrating with Elden Ring’s world and lore, offering a truly immersive and interconnected experience.
Content That Rivals Full Games
The sheer amount of content in Shadow of the Erdtree is staggering. With an estimated playtime of 25 hours, it surpasses the length of some full-fledged games nominated for GOTY. This extensive content includes a vast new open world, compelling storylines, challenging bosses, and a wealth of new weapons, armor, and items. It’s a complete package that offers incredible value and replayability.
Innovative Gameplay Enhancements
Shadow of the Erdtree doesn’t just add more of the same; it introduces innovative gameplay mechanics that enhance the Elden Ring experience. Hand-to-hand combat allows for new melee builds, while perfume bottles offer a unique twist on magic playstyles. These additions, along with a host of other surprises, keep the gameplay fresh and exciting even for veteran Elden Ring players.
A Narrative Triumph
The DLC’s narrative is a masterpiece in its own right. It delves deeper into the lore of Elden Ring, exploring the tragic story of Miquella and offering a poignant reflection on the game’s themes. The storytelling is more focused and linear than the base game, providing a compelling and emotionally resonant experience.
The DLC Dilemma
Historically, DLCs have rarely won Game of the Year awards. This is because they are seen as additions to existing games. They are not considered full games in their own right. However, Shadow of the Erdtree is a significant expansion. It offers a substantial amount of content. This blurs the line between DLC and a full game.
The Competition
Shadow of the Erdtree faces stiff competition. Other strong contenders for Game of the Year 2024 include:
- Final Fantasy VII Rebirth: This highly anticipated sequel has garnered critical acclaim for its story, characters, and gameplay.
- Black Myth: Wukong: This action RPG has impressed players with its stunning visuals and unique combat system.
- Astro Bot Rescue Mission 2: This VR platformer has been praised for its innovative gameplay and charming characters.
The Verdict
Whether Shadow of the Erdtree can overcome the “DLC stigma” and win Game of the Year remains to be seen. It has the quality and content to be a contender. The decision ultimately lies with the award judges. They will weigh its merits against other strong contenders. Regardless of the outcome, Shadow of the Erdtree has already cemented its place as a remarkable addition to the Elden Ring legacy.
Key Takeaways
- Shadow of the Erdtree adds a new land to explore in Elden Ring
- The DLC includes many new weapons, spells, and items
- Players must beat certain bosses in the main game to access the expansion
Gameplay Mechanics and Features
Shadow of the Erdtree brings new ways to play Elden Ring. It adds fresh combat options and gear. Players can explore new areas and take on tough quests.
Exploration and Combat
The DLC adds a whole new map to explore. Players can ride Torrent through strange lands. They’ll find new Sites of Grace to rest at.
Combat gets an upgrade too. New weapons and skills let players fight in new ways. Bosses are tougher and need smart tactics to beat.
The Abyssal Woods and Cerulean Coast are key new areas. Each has its own dangers and secrets. Players must be alert as they explore.
Equipment and Customization
Shadow of the Erdtree gives players lots of new gear to try. Here’s a quick look:
- 70 new weapons
- 10 new shields
- 39 new talismans
- 25 new Ashes of War
Players can mix and match this gear to make unique builds. New armor sets let them change their look too.
Spirit Ashes get an upgrade with 20 new options. These ghostly allies help in tough fights.
Quests and Progression
The DLC adds new quests to tackle. Players meet fresh NPCs with their own stories. These quests lead to new items and lore.
Questlines can be tricky. They often need players to explore far and wide. The payoff is worth it with unique rewards.
New Key Items help players progress. They unlock doors and solve puzzles. Scadutree Fragments are vital to collect.
Leveling up is key. Players should boost their Vigor for tough fights. New sorceries and incantations add magic options too.
Lore and Story Elements
Shadow of the Erdtree adds new lore to the Elden Ring universe. It explores Miquella’s past and reveals hidden secrets of the Lands Between. The expansion introduces fresh characters, places, and alliances.
Characters and Mythos
Miquella takes center stage in this DLC. He’s a key figure with ties to the Erdtree. The story delves into his background and motives. Mohg and Marika also play important roles.
New characters join the mix. These include:
- Count Ymir
- Fire Knight Queelign
- Needle Knight Leda
- Redmane Freyja
Each brings their own lore and quests. The Dragon Communion Priestess offers insights into dragon magic. St. Trina’s true nature may be revealed.
Ghostly beings like Enir-Ilim add to the mystique. They hint at past events in the Lands Between.
Major Locations
The DLC introduces several new areas to explore. Each has its own history and secrets.
Castle Ensis stands as a major landmark. It holds clues to Miquella’s past. The Gravesite Plain is a somber place filled with mysteries.
Other key locations include:
- Scadu Altus
- Moorth Ruins
- Cathedral of Manus Metyr
- Shadow Keep
The Realm of Shadow offers a new dimension to the game world. It’s tied closely to Miquella’s story.
Legacy Dungeons provide challenging areas to conquer. They hide powerful items and lore snippets.
Faction Dynamics and Alliances
The DLC shakes up existing alliances. It introduces new factions with their own goals.
Hornsent and Ansbach emerge as important groups. Their history ties into the larger narrative. The Hornsent Grandam plays a key role in their story.
Outer Gods continue to influence events. Their actions shape the conflicts in Shadow of the Erdtree.
Players’ choices impact these factions. Alliances can shift based on player decisions. This adds depth to the storytelling and gameplay.
The Church of Consolation offers a new perspective on faith in the Lands Between. It may challenge existing beliefs about the Erdtree and the Golden Order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Players have many questions about the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion for Elden Ring. This section covers key details about its release date, cost, and new features.
What is the release date for the Elden Ring expansion, Shadow of the Erdtree?
The exact release date for Shadow of the Erdtree has not been announced yet. Fans are eagerly waiting for FromSoftware to reveal when they can play this new content.
Where can I find a walkthrough for the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion?
IGN offers a walkthrough for the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC. It guides players through the new adventure in a separate land from The Lands Between.
How much does the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion cost?
The price for Shadow of the Erdtree has not been revealed. Fans will need to wait for official pricing information from FromSoftware or Bandai Namco.
What are the steps to access the Shadow of the Erdtree content in Elden Ring?
The steps to access the new content are not yet known. Players will likely need to own the base game and purchase the expansion separately when it becomes available.
Who is the final boss of the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion?
The final boss of Shadow of the Erdtree has not been revealed. This information will likely remain secret until players can experience the expansion for themselves.
What new features does the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion include?
Shadow of the Erdtree adds many new items and features to Elden Ring. These include:
- 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 craftables
The expansion also brings a whole new map for players to explore.
