Enter the Shadow Realm: A Comprehensive Guide to Exploring Elden Ring's Massive New Expansion
FromSoftware's latest expansion to the beloved open-world RPG Elden Ring, Shadow of the Erdtree, launched today. With an all-new mystical world to uncover, hidden depths to plumb, and fearsome foes to face, the Shadow Realm promises to provide dozens of additional hours of exploration and challenge. For those Tarnished embarking on this perilous journey for the first time, here is an in-depth guide covering everything you need to know to get started.
Table of Contents
- Gaining Access to the Shadow Realm
- Navigating the Mysterious New Land
- Meeting Allies and Enemies
- Utilizing New Progression Systems
- Managing Inventory and Discoveries
Gaining Access to the Shadow Realm
To set foot in the Shadow Realm, Tarnished must first prove themselves in the Lands Between by vanquishing two imposing foes. Starscourge Radahn, the legendary General of the bloodstained red legions, holds court over the Radahn Festival in northern Caelid. Only by besting this fearsome warrior during the bloody spectacle can adventurers proceed. IGN's guide to defeating Radahn provides essential tips.
The next task lies even deeper in the realm of blood and death. In southern Liurnia, Mohg the Omen lurks within his palace in the Consecrated Snowfield, awaiting those who would dare challenge his rule. After emerging victorious from this grueling battle, Tarnished will find Miquella's cocoon within the boss arena. Interacting with it while the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion is installed will grant entrance to the mysterious new realm.
Navigating the Mysterious New Land
Upon arriving in the Shadow Realm, exploration begins anew. Like in the Lands Between, the realm's vast map remains shrouded until fragments are discovered. The first lies beneath an obelisk, as indicated on the blank slate map by a lone bright spot. From here, the web of pathways, altars, lakes and towering structures stretching in all directions can slowly be pieced together. GamesRadar's map of the Shadow Realm provides an overview to guide newcomers.
What the surface map cannot convey is the lands' true grandeur, realized through its ingenious use of vertical scale. Ancient ruins tower skyward, plunging caverns delve deep underground, and hidden paths melt seamlessly between domains above and below. Every nook and cranny rewards close inspection with items, lore, and shortcuts between distant areas.
Meeting Allies and Enemies
Throughout their explorations, Tarnished will encounter new NPCs both friendly and hostile. Tribal dwellers, sorcerous devotees, and spectral warriors now populate the realm's first region. Interacting with them can progress side-quests, reveal hidden zones, and recruit battle companions. However, not all will be so cooperative. Duels against powerful adversaries like the Bloody Finger Reader Crone provide tests of martial prowess.
Cooperation with allies enhances one's power through new systems. Continuing questlines may reward useful items or spells, while defeating foes in Journeys can level up spirits like the Mimic Tear for aid against even tougher challenges ahead.
Utilizing New Progression Systems
Rather than traditional level-ups, the Shadow Realm introduces Scadutree Fragments and Revered Spirit Ashes to strengthen one's character. Scadutree Fragments found throughout boost both damage negation and attack power at sites of grace. Revered Spirit Ashes similarly buff summonable allies like the Mimic Tear. Both only apply within the expansion and add new strategic dimensions to encounters.
FromSoftware has also included quality of life features to streamline inventory management. Newly acquired items are automatically tagged with an exclamation point and recent pickups collated in a dedicated tab. While optional, these aids help focus explorers on experimenting with expansive arsenals.
Managing Inventory and Discoveries
With its scale and systems rivaling the base game, Shadow of the Erdtree naturally presents an overwhelming array of discoveries. This guide provides a foundation for newcomers to gain their footing in the Realm's accessible starting zone. Yet every rock overturned and crevice examined holds potential for uncovering rare weapons, spells, or clues to deeper lore. Have patience, Tarnished - victory and understanding will come in time through perseverance and cooperation.
Rise now, and let the shadows guide your way. Adventure and discovery await within the mysterious Shadow Realm.