The highly anticipated Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree DLC will be globally released in just a few days. The recent Elden Ring story trailer hinted at surprising revelations about Queen Marika’s past. The emergence of the Erdtree has set the stage perfectly for the DLC. But are you adequately prepared? The Shadow of the Erdtree preview releases have revealed a wealth of new information. We now have a better understanding of the upcoming DLC through some intriguing details. If you’re curious about what Shadow of the Erdtree brings, continue reading as we delve into the 7 secrets we have learned from the preview.
1. New Weapon Types
Elden Ring already featured a wide range of weapon types distributed among numerous weapons. It likely had the most weapons in the Soulsborne genre, second only to Dark Souls 2. The Shadow of the Erdtree DLC will introduce 8 additional weapon types to the game, along with many new weapons for both existing and new categories.
The new weapon types introduced in Erdtree include Great Katanas, Dryleaf Arts (Hand-to-Hand), Throwing Weapons, Thrusting Shields, and more.
Moreover, the game will see the addition of 100 new weapons, including many for existing categories. Featured in the previews were weapons like the multi-shot crossbow and the throwable large hammer. Hand-to-Hand and Throwing Weapon types appear fascinating and potentially game-changing. I’m excited to witness the innovative builds players will devise following the DLC release.
2. New Upgrade System Exclusive to Land of Shadows
During the interviews following the game’s announcement, Elden Ring’s DLC revealed a unique leveling-up system. The DLC previews have confirmed the introduction of two new upgrade types exclusive to the Land of Shadows:
- Scadutree Fragment: These fragments can be found in the open world, usually near Miquella’s marks. Players can exchange them for Scadutree Blessings, enhancing the character’s base damage and defense permanently in the Land of Shadows.
- Reverend Spirit Ashes: These ashes are also scattered in the open world and can be exchanged for Reverend Spirit Blessings. These blessings can boost the attack and defense of your Spirit Ashes, like Torrent. In Torrent’s case, it enhances his damage negation ability.
These new upgrade mechanisms suggest that traditional character stats may not hold as much sway in the Land of Shadows, possibly to prevent high-level characters from effortlessly dominating the DLC.
3. Miquella’s Signs Guide the Way in the Land of Shadows
Viewers of the recent Elden Ring DLC trailer may have observed Miquella’s symbol displayed in multiple locations within the Land of Shadows. These markings are not new grace sites but traces of Miquella’s journey in that realm.
Typically, Miquella’s disciples gather near these signs, indicating the probable path that the tarnished should follow to reach their destination. These signs are significant as they lead to the discovery of Scadutree Fragments and Reverend Spirit Ashes, crucial for advancing various new NPC quests.
4. New Spirit Ashes
In addition to the new weapon types introduced in the game, Shadow of the Erdtree will feature a variety of new spirit ashes, including the Finger Creeper Spirit Ashes. Finger Creepers were notorious adversaries in the base game, often pushing me to the brink of madness; hence, it’s a welcome sight to have them as allies rather than foes. The new Finger Creeper Spirit Ash can provide area-of-effect healing, making it a valuable asset in many Elden Ring encounters.
Apart from the Finger Creeper, the DLC preview unveiled two other new Spirit Ashes: Andreas Black Knight Commander and the Gravebird Spirit Ashes. With many more still undisclosed, we can anticipate a significant influx of Spirit ashes into the Shadow of the Erdtree.
5. Brace Yourself for Increased Difficulty!
Although it may seem difficult, everything showcased in the preview hints at the Erdtree DLC being notably more challenging than the base game. Enemies are swifter, more robust, and boast increased health pools.
Yet, such heightened difficulty should come as no surprise, considering FromSoftware’s reputation for delivering tough DLC content. The primary spike in challenge likely stems from the new leveling system, which diminishes the significance of character stats from the base game.
Nevertheless, akin to the base game, Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree is anticipated to be more manageable with Spirit Ashes, player summons, and potentially overpowered character builds. So, maintain your resolve and bear in mind that any strategy is fair game when facing obstacles.
6. Blue Spirit Worms: Friend or Foe?
The endearing blue spirit worms from the Elden Ring DLC teaser left us pondering whether they are benign or malevolent. The recent Elden Ring Preview has shed light on this enigma
These enigmatic blue spirit worms are initially non-aggressive in the Elden Ring Preview, but their demeanor quickly changes once provoked. Participants of the Elden Ring DLC preview have reported that the worms become quite unruly when provoked, yet their exact behavior remains a mystery. It seems my first act upon entering the Shadow of the Erdtree is decided now.
7. Unveiling the Enigmatic Narrator from the DLC Trailer
A significant enigma surrounding the Elden Ring DLC teaser and trailer was the enigmatic female narrator, who was later revealed to be one of Miquella’s disciples. In the latest Elden Ring DLC preview, we gain further insights about her.
Identified as “Needle Knight” Leda, the narrator is the initial NPC encountered at Moghwyn palace near Miquella’s remains following the defeat of Mohg in the base game. Resonant with Gael’s role in Dark Souls 3’s Ashes of Ariandel DLC, she steers us through the Land of Shadows. Her cryptic messages serve as markers in crucial locations within the Land of Shadows, directing Miquella’s champions along the correct path.
The Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree DLC appears poised to be among the most anticipated launches of 2024. Alongside millions of fervent fans worldwide, we eagerly anticipate the global release of Erdtree on June 21. Share your thoughts on the upcoming release in the comments below!
