Elden Ring Shadow of the ErdTree: Explore Its Expansion

Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree stands as the highly anticipated expansion for Elden Ring. Unveiled via a tweet from the official Elden Ring account, precise details about the expansion remain scarce. It remains uncertain whether this expansion will be comprehensive or what players can anticipate in terms of its size and pricing.

As FromSoftware primarily focuses on promoting Armored Core, it seems unlikely that the Shadow of the Earthtree expansion will be featured during the Summer Games Fest.

Official statements affirm that the expansion will be available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and Steam, mirroring the release platforms of the main title. While specific details are yet to be disclosed, the developers express gratitude for the enduring support of Elden Ring enthusiasts.

Rise, Tarnished, and let us walk a new path together.
An upcoming expansion for #ELDENRING Shadow of the Erdtree, is currently in development.
We hope you look forward to new adventures in the Lands Between. pic.twitter.com/cjJYijM7Mw

— ELDEN RING (@ELDENRING) February 28, 2023

ELDEN RING SHADOW OF THE ERDTREE EXPANSION: A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW

Release Date: Speculated to be in late 2023
Platforms: PS4 / PS5 / Xbox One / Xbox Series X|S / Steam
Announcement Date: February 28, 2023
Type: Expansion
Pricing: Estimated to be between 20 and 40 USD
Content: Speculated to include new areas, mechanics, equipment, weapons, NPCs, and more

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SHADOW OF THE ERDTREE EXPANSION: WHAT TO EXPECT

Considering FromSoftware’s track record and the fact that this expansion was announced more than a year after the official launch of Elden Ring, we anticipate that this content will be a fully fleshed-out expansion designed to enrich the game significantly.

In contrast to the Colosseum Update, which offered content that had already been hinted at in the base game, the Shadows of the Erdtree expansion is poised to introduce entirely new areas, weapons, equipment, bosses, and discoveries.

The depicted zone in the promotional image already diverges from any currently available in-game locations, implying that it will delve further into the world’s lore and backstory.

The expansion even features its distinctive “mini logo,” often indicating a substantial content expansion. However, the primary basis for speculation regarding its size is the considerable amount of time FromSoftware has taken to unveil the project.

Given the announcement of its development in February 2023, we estimate that the launch date will be revealed in the second quarter, with a release scheduled for the third or fourth quarter of 2023.

SPECULATIONS ON THE SHADOW OF THE ERDTREE

The forthcoming Elden Ring expansion, Shadow of the Erdtree, revealed artwork showcasing an enigmatic character riding a Torrent-like horse. This character’s identity remains uncertain, but it could potentially be Miquella or Queen Marika.

Navigating an expansive field teeming with bountiful wheat, this character emanates an aura of abundance. Notably, the character’s hairstyle is identical to that of Miquella, as seen in the opening cinematics.

The Erdtree depicted in the cover art exudes a bleeding essence of gold, potentially signifying a post-destruction narrative that transpires after the game’s ending. Upon zooming in, one can discern ashes descending from the tree branches, suggesting a post-burning or pre-breaking scenario when the Golden Order was initially corrupted.

Another twisted tree appears to strangle the bleeding Erdtree, with some speculation pointing to it being an extension of Godwyn’s roots. The sky above the two trees lacks sunlight—could the Lands Between have fallen under an eclipse?

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Ethereal structures are also visible across the field. Could they represent the ghostly tombs of the Haligtree soldiers who selflessly sacrificed themselves to guide Miquella’s return?

Considering the expected scale of an Elden Ring expansion, we anticipate a substantial amount of content, likely encompassing a completely new map that covers approximately one-third of the base game’s area. Drawing upon past expansions like Artorias of the Abyss and The Old Hunters from FromSoftware’s repertoire, players can expect the following additions: