Elden Ring DLC: A New Challenge from FromSoftware
3 min read
The Elden Ring expansion, Shadow of the Erdtree, is set to release in June 2024, and fans of the Soulslike genre are eagerly anticipating the new challenges it will bring. In a recent interview with Eurogamer, director Hidetaka Miyazaki confirmed that the DLC will offer a challenge on par with the end of the main game for those who seek it.
Malenia, the infamous boss from Elden Ring, has long been a benchmark for Soulslike difficulty. Players who relished the optional fight with her in the Haligtree will find a similar challenge in the DLC. While the specifics of this encounter are yet to be revealed, it’s safe to assume that it will be a formidable foe.
One of the new bosses unveiled in the gameplay trailer is Mesmer the Impaler, a spear-wielding adversary whose design suggests a one-shot-kill grapple. The 10 bosses confirmed for the expansion are sure to present a significant challenge, and players can expect a variety of combat encounters.
Miyazaki also mentioned that the DLC’s difficulty in general will be comparable to the end of the main game. This means that players who found Elden Ring’s difficulty level satisfactory will find the DLC to be a worthy continuation. However, for those who found the game too challenging, the DLC will introduce a new progression element that allows players to back away from more difficult fights and level up more easily.
Another Souls staple making a return in the Elden Ring DLC is the poison swamp. Miyazaki expressed his fondness for creating poisoned swamps, stating that they provide a reflective experience for players. While some may find the swamp infuriating, Miyazaki hopes that players will find it more introspective and reflective.
The Elden Ring DLC’s new area is said to be bigger than Limgrave in terms of surface area, with a mix of open areas and dungeons. This expansion will offer a significant amount of content for players to explore and conquer. With the return of challenging boss fights and the inclusion of a poison swamp, Shadow of the Erdtree is shaping up to be an exciting addition to the Elden Ring universe.
Elden Ring has been praised for its flexibility in how players approach challenges. The DLC will continue this trend, allowing players to tackle the new content in their preferred manner. Whether players choose to face the challenges head-on or take a more strategic approach, they will find a worthy adversary in the Elden Ring DLC.
In conclusion, the Elden Ring DLC, Shadow of the Erdtree, is set to offer a new challenge for Soulslike fans. With the confirmation of boss fights on par with Malenia and the return of the poison swamp, players can expect a significant amount of content that will test their skills and provide a reflective experience. The DLC’s flexibility in how players approach challenges will ensure that everyone can find a way to conquer the new content. The release of the Elden Ring DLC on June 21, 2024, is an exciting prospect for fans of the Soulslike genre, and it’s sure to be a worthy continuation of the Elden Ring experience.
