FromSoftware has resorted to the genre of dark fantasy once again in the latest DLC for Elden Ring, Shadow of the Erdtree. Being a seasoned player of the game in the world of The Lands Between, I wholeheartedly recommend this expansion to those who have fallen for the enigmatic aesthetics and hardcore gameplay of the base game.

The first point to take note of is undoubtedly the richness of the lore and world expansion as one of the game’s main appeals. The Lands Between of Elden Ring was already steeped in lore and mystery, but this DLC continues to add more layers to the narrative, featuring new characters shrouded in mystery and revealing hidden truths that only serve to entice players even more by the world that the game is set in. While following such a narrative exploration is beneficial in enriching overall gameplay, it also helps to create more context within the player’s story, when almost every found object is valuable (or just useless, but cool).

As for gameplay, Shadow of the Erdtree delivers new challenges that any seasoned players will surely appreciate. With seemingly unforgiving bosses that call for a different approach to battles to complex dungeons with traps and riddles, the game does not give one a minute’s rest. For level design, it maintains an interconnected design along with new paths throughout the game. Players can get important resources and overwhelming views for lengthening the game’s story to further induce replay value and environmental storytelling which is FromSoftware’s strength.

From this standpoint, Shadow of the Erdtree pronounced the same alluring art direction at the helm of Elden Ring, detailed and gloomy nature and geography of the scenery and the horrifying creatures. Every nook and cranny has been well thought out, not to mention highly consistent in delivering that old world feeling that feels fresh and new at the same time.

Definitely worth your money.