Two years after the release that revolutionized the action RPG genre, Elden Ring receives its long-awaited expansion, Shadow of the Erdtree. Developed by FromSoftware, known for its challenging games and immersive worlds, this DLC promises not only to add new content, but also to expand on the great narrative and mechanics of the base game. And it fulfills that promise masterfully.
An Impressive Vertical Leap
From the first moment you set foot in the Kingdom of Shadows, it's clear that Shadow of the Erdtree takes the Elden Ring experience to new heights. FromSoftware once again surprises with an intricate level design, where the verticality of the map is not just an aesthetic detail, but a central element of exploration. The sense of depth and height creates an additional dimension to the game, where every cliff and cave hides secrets and challenges waiting to be uncovered.
The new region is full of biodiversity, with environments ranging from vast open fields to poisonous swamps and dark caves. This diversity, combined with the complexity of the map, makes exploration rewarding and surprising, evoking the same sense of discovery that made the base game such a success.
The most impressive thing is the way From Software manages to present these without having direct control of the camera, every time a new area is presented it's like a painting come to life.
A New Epic Chapter
In terms of plot, Shadow of the Erdtree maintains the cryptic and mysterious pattern typical of FromSoftware, but with a narrative cohesion that stands out. The story unfolds in parallel to the main plot of Elden Ring, with new NPCs and quests that delve even deeper into the game's universe. Fans of the lore will find new elements to unravel here, while those less familiar with the details will still be able to appreciate the epic journey and the striking characters.
Evolution and Experimentation
As far as combat is concerned, the expansion introduces a series of new weapons, classes and mechanics that revitalize the gaming experience. The additions range from impressive bear claws to large katanas, each with unique animations and gameplay possibilities. This variety allows players to experiment with new forms of combat, while keeping the action dynamic and interesting.
What's more, you can see that FromSoftware has used this DLC as a testing ground for new ideas, suggesting that future projects from the studio could take combat to an even higher level. The difficulty, as expected, is challenging, but in a way that remains fair and balanced, even for high-level players.
An unmissable expansion
Shadow of the Erdtree isn't just an expansion; it's a true complement to the Elden Ring experience. With over 50 hours of content, epic new bosses and a world that begs to be explored, this DLC is a must-have for any fan of the game. FromSoftware has once again delivered a masterpiece that expands and enhances what was already one of the best games of the generation.
If Elden Ring was already a milestone in video game history, Shadow of the Erdtree further solidifies that position, showing that the studio still has a lot to offer in the future. Get ready to dive back into the Midlands and discover everything this new chapter has to offer.
