The highly anticipated expansion for the popular action RPG Elden Ring, titled Shadow of the Erdtree, has unveiled a gameplay trailer that highlights a fresh narrative, new characters, and an expansive map. Scheduled for release on June 21, the downloadable content (DLC) will be accessible on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series S/X. Preorders for the game are now available across all platforms.
Focusing on the story of Miquella, the brother of Malenia, Shadow of the Erdtree is expected to be FromSoftware’s most significant expansion yet, challenging players to navigate a new mystery. The DLC is set to explore the Land of Shadow, an unfamiliar region that extends beyond the existing Lands Between. According to FromSoftware’s description, this area is where “the goddess Marika first set foot” and is defined by a fierce, unacknowledged conflict, now ravaged by the flames of Messmer.
The three-minute gameplay trailer maintains the series’ signature cryptic style, showcasing an array of fresh adversaries, formidable bosses, and the new environment, sparking speculation among fans about the primary mystery. The trailer begins with Miquella’s withered arm suspended from a cocoon, while an intriguing invitation to “touch the withered arm, and travel to the realm of shadow” suggests that interaction with Miquella’s arm will be crucial for accessing the new Land of Shadow.
In addition, the trailer introduces a new antagonist, Messmer the Impaler, who appears to be the DLC’s final boss. Messmer presides over the Land of Shadow, a realm left desolate by his devastating flame. While details about this character remain scarce, it is anticipated that fans will soon dissect the trailer to uncover hidden clues.
Shadow of the Erdtree promises a substantial narrative that will guide players on an expedition through the Land of Shadow. The DLC’s story description beckons players to this obscure region, where they are expected to uncover dark secrets and encounter various characters with ulterior motives following in Miquella’s path.
This new addition to Elden Ring introduces a distinct world separate from the Lands Between featured in the base game. While the dimensions of the new map remain undisclosed, FromSoftware indicates it will be extensive, enabling seamless traversal between various sections. Like the original setting, the Land of Shadow will offer diverse environments, filled with new challenges, enigmas, enemies, and perilous dungeons.
In addition to enhancing the lore, Shadow of the Erdtree will include fresh weapons, equipment, weapon skills, and magic previously unseen in Elden Ring, enriching the RPG experience that fans have come to love.
The expansion will be available in a standard edition and a Premium Bundle that incorporates a digital art book and the original soundtrack. Furthermore, it will be offered as part of a bundle along with the base game. A limited-edition Collector’s Edition will also be available, featuring the expansion, a 46cm statue of “Messmer the Impaler,” an art book, and a download voucher for the original soundtrack.
Pre-orders for Shadow of the Erdtree can be made on Steam, PlayStation, and Xbox storefronts, with the release set for June 21. Players should note that ownership of the base game is required to access this expansion.
