The year 2022 witnessed the triumphant launch of Elden Ring, a collaborative masterpiece between FromSoftware and George R.R. Martin. This fantasy-action RPG not only captivated the hearts of fans but also clinched the prestigious Game of the Year award at The Game Awards in 2022. However, FromSoftware wasn’t content to rest on its laurels, and around the first anniversary in February 2023, they officially announced the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Announcement Date | Around Elden Ring’s first anniversary in February 2023. |
| DLC Name | Shadow of the Erdtree. |
| Anticipated Release Year | 2024, with a potential reveal around the two-year anniversary in February. |
| Character Teaser | Image features a long-haired character riding Torrent towards a destroyed Erdtree. Speculation on identity, possibly Miquella. |
| Expected DLC Content | – Expanded world with a new or altered map. <br> – Engaging narrative with fresh storylines and side quests. <br> – Upgraded arsenal, including weapons, armor, spells, and Ashes of War. <br> – New and challenging bosses. |
| Insider Rumors (Lance McDonald) | Elden Ring’s Shadow of the Erdtree DLC is the size of two separate DLCs. The content was initially intended for a Season Pass. |
| Post-DLC Updates | FromSoftware likely to issue updates post-launch for balance and bug fixes. Fans expected to continue playing base game and DLC for an extended period. |
| Next FromSoftware Projects | Multiple projects in development, with rumors hinting at another Souls game. |
The Silence and Speculation
Since the announcement, FromSoftware has been diligently working on the DLC, occasionally reassuring the community about the smooth progress. The anticipation for Elden Ring’s DLC has been palpable, and while many hoped for news at The Game Awards, 2024 seems to be the likely year for a grand reveal. Fans, eager for any shred of information, have been left with mere speculation fueled by a single image featuring a long-haired character riding Torrent towards a ravaged Erdtree.
Unveiling the Secrets: Miquella and More
Rumors abound regarding the identity of the character in the image, with many speculating it could be Malenia’s brother, Miquella. FromSoftware’s marketing strategy has often involved extended periods of silence followed by intense promotional activity, mirroring the pattern of Elden Ring’s release. If history is any indication, fans can anticipate a similar cycle for the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, with a potential reveal around the two-year anniversary mark in February.
What’s in Store for Elden Ring in 2024
As players eagerly await the DLC, they can speculate on the content based on FromSoftware’s past offerings. The expected features include:
1. Expanded World
- A new or altered map that adds depth to the Elden Ring universe.
2. Compelling Narrative
- Fresh storylines and side quests to immerse players in the evolving lore.
3. Arsenal Upgrade
- New weapons, armor, spells, and Ashes of War to enhance the gaming experience.
4. Formidable Foes
- Anticipate encountering new bosses, potentially even more challenging than those in the base game.
5. And Much More
- FromSoftware has a track record of delivering surprises, so players can expect additional content beyond the speculated features.
Size Matters: The McDonald Revelation
Amidst the plethora of rumors, one claim stands out. Insider Lance McDonald hinted at a colossal DLC in development, suggesting that Elden Ring’s Shadow of the Erdtree is the size of two separate DLCs. FromSoftware decided to forgo a Season Pass, consolidating all content into one massive expansion. While this may extend the waiting period, the prospect of a substantial addition to the Elden Ring universe has fans on the edge of their seats.
Post-DLC Horizon
Though Shadow of the Erdtree appears to be the sole expansion for Elden Ring, the journey doesn’t end there. FromSoftware is likely to release updates post-launch to fine-tune balance and address any issues that may arise. While updates may become less frequent over time, the dedicated fan base is expected to continue exploring the base game and DLC for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: When can we expect Elden Ring’s Shadow of the Erdtree DLC?
A: While no official announcement has been made, 2024 seems the most likely year for news and release. Fans may get a glimpse around the two-year anniversary in February.
Q2: Who is the character in the DLC teaser image?
A: Speculation suggests it could be Miquella, Malenia’s brother, but nothing has been confirmed by FromSoftware.
Q3: What can players expect from the DLC in terms of content?
A: The DLC is expected to bring a new or changed map, an engaging narrative, additional weapons and armor, challenging bosses, and more surprises.
Q4: Is the DLC as substantial as the rumors claim?
A: Insider Lance McDonald hinted that the Shadow of the Erdtree is the size of two separate DLCs, making it a massive expansion.
Q5: What’s next for FromSoftware after Elden Ring?
A: FromSoftware reportedly has multiple projects in the pipeline, with rumors of another Souls game circulating among the community.
