Two years after Elden Ring blessed us with this open-world wonder, FromSoftware has graced us with Shadow of the Erdtree, a DLC that expands upon the original game’s brilliance. This sprawling expansion is a testament to FromSoftware’s commitment to depth and challenge, offering a journey that is as rewarding as it is enigmatic. Yet, it’s not without its flaws, particularly concerning its narrative approach and certain design choices.
A world steeped in mystery and beauty
Shadow of the Erdtree plunges players into a new, haunting region of the Lands Between, a warped and twisted reflection of the familiar landscapes players explored in the base game. The Shadow Realm is a mesmerizing landscape of decaying grandeur, filled with grotesque creatures and crumbling ruins that hint at a tragic past. From the moment you step into this desolate world, you’re captivated by its oppressive atmosphere and the promise of secrets waiting to be unearthed.
Exploration reveals a world both familiar and alien. Familiar landmarks are twisted and distorted, reflecting the corruption that has taken hold. This eerie mirroring of the Lands Between is a constant reminder of the interconnectedness of the world and the consequences of the Shattering.
Visually, Shadow of the Erdtree is breathtaking. The environments are rich in detail, with stunning lighting and particle effects that bring the world to life. The art direction is impeccable, creating a sense of awe and wonder as you traverse this haunting realm. The creature designs are equally impressive, ranging from monstrous abominations to ethereal beings that evoke a sense of otherworldly beauty.
Mysteries of Miquella unrevels
Central to the narrative of Shadow of the Erdtree is Miquella, the enigmatic Empyrean who sought to defy the Golden Order and forge a new path for the Lands Between. The expansion delves deeper into Miquella’s story, revealing his motivations, struggles, and ultimately, his tragic fate.
Players uncover remnants of Miquella’s ambitious project, the Haligtree, a colossal structure designed to transcend the limitations of the Erdtree. Exploring its depths reveals Miquella’s complex relationship with his sister, Malenia, and his unwavering determination to overcome the curse of rot that plagued her.
Shadow of the Erdtree doesn’t shy away from exploring the darker aspects of Miquella’s story. It reveals the lengths he was willing to go to achieve his goals, raising questions about the morality of his actions and the potential consequences of his ambitions.
The expansion also introduces new characters who are deeply intertwined with Miquella’s story. These characters offer different perspectives on Miquella’s legacy, adding layers of complexity to the narrative and prompting players to question their own assumptions about this enigmatic figure.
A narrative shrouded in ambiguity
While Shadow of the Erdtree delves deeper into the lore surrounding Miquella, the narrative remains deliberately vague and fragmented. The expansion leaves many questions unanswered, leaving ample room for interpretation and speculation. This approach can be both rewarding and frustrating, depending on the player’s preferences.
Some players may appreciate the open-ended nature of the narrative, as it allows them to form their own theories and interpretations. Others may find the lack of clear answers unsatisfying, particularly those who were hoping for a more definitive conclusion to Miquella’s story.
The DLC’s ending is particularly enigmatic, leaving players to ponder the implications of their choices and the ultimate fate of Miquella’s dream. It’s a conclusion that invites discussion and debate, ensuring that the legacy of Shadow of the Erdtree will continue to be explored and analyzed long after the credits roll.
The throne passes from one legend to another
The official Twitter account for The Witcher franchise, @witchergame, acknowledged on June 21st that Elden Ring’s Shadow of the Erdtree DLC had surpassed The Witcher 3: Blood and Wine as the highest-rated DLC for a role-playing game. They congratulated FromSoftware on their achievement, stating that Blood and Wine had held that honor for the past eight years.
FromSoftware, through their official Twitter account @fromsoftware_pr, responded by expressing their gratitude for the kind words and acknowledging the significance of being compared to Blood and Wine, considering it one of the all-time greats.
It is truly an honour to be placed alongside Blood and Wine, one of the all time greats. We are humbled by your kind words. Thank you.
— FROMSOFTWARE (@fromsoftware_pr) June 22, 2024
This exchange between two major game studios exemplifies the positive and supportive interactions that foster a thriving gaming community. It showcases a mutual respect and admiration for each other’s work, setting a great example for the industry and fans alike. This type of camaraderie is precisely what we need for a better gaming community, where creators uplift and inspire one another, ultimately leading to more exceptional games for everyone to enjoy.
Featured image credit: ELDEN RING Shadow of the Erdtree/Steam
