Elden Ring is FromSoftware latest masterpiece, and it has captivated players with its vast world, intricate lore, and challenging gameplay. Among the many elements that define this epic adventure, the Erdtree stands out as a core symbol and game mechanic. With the launch of the “Shadow of the Erdtree” DLC, players can explore and conquer more content to gain more Elden Ring Runes. However, like any major game addition, it has its own pros and cons. Now, MMoexp brings you the ultimate Elden Ring experience, allowing you to explore the Shadow of the Erdtree deeper than ever before.
Pros: 1. Enhanced Game Mechanics
The “Shadow of the Erdtree” DLC introduces two new items: Revered Soul Ember and Scadutree Fragment. These items are designed to enhance your game experience by increasing the damage reduction and attack damage of Soul Ember summons and yourself, respectively. The problem is, these bonuses only take effect when you are in Shadow of the Realm, a new area introduced in the DLC. This dynamic encourages players to engage deeply with the new content, and offers entirely new strategies and complexities.
2.Balanced Difficulty
One of the standout features of the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC is how it balances the game’s difficulty. The blessings granted by the new items help offset the added challenge of Shadow of the Realm without making the game feel too easy or unbalanced. This careful calibration ensures that players experience a fair yet arduous adventure, preserving the essence of what made Elden Ring so compelling.
3.Compact and Dense World Design
While the base game of Elden Ring was large and sprawling, Shadow of the Erdtree offers a more compact and dense environment. This area, which is about the size of the Atlus Plateau and Liurnia regions combined, is packed with content, secrets, and challenges. The density of the world design means that players are constantly engaged, with less downtime and more opportunities for exploration and combat.
4.Mirrored Progression System
The progression system in Shadow of the Erdtree is similar to the Sacred Tears/Golden Seed system in the base game. As players progress through the DLC, they gain more powerful upgrades, similar to how potions get stronger in the main game. This familiar yet novel progression system ensures that players feel a sense of continuity and growth without being overwhelmed by too many permanent upgrades.
Cons:1. Minor Technical Issues
Like many expansion games, Elden Ring is not without its share of technical glitches. Minor technical issues, such as occasional framerate drops or glitches, can detract from the overall experience. While these issues aren’t typically game-breaking, they can be frustrating, especially during intense moments. However, it’s important to note that these technical issues don’t overshadow the fundamentally solid game design.
2.Limited Reward Range
The rewards offered by Revered Soul Embers and Scadutree Fragments are limited to Shadow of the Realms. While this design choice ensures balance, it can also feel restrictive. Players may wish these rewards were available in the wider Lands Between, with generous Buy Elden Ring Items to buy to help tackle some of the game’s more challenging areas outside of the DLC.
3.Compressed Experience
While Shadow of the Realm’s compact and dense design is generally a strength, it can also be seen as a weakness for some players. Those who enjoyed Elden Ring’s expansive open-world exploration may find the DLC’s more closed environments less appealing. The feeling of endless adventure and discovery is somewhat diminished in this denser environment.
4.Learning curve for new mechanics
The introduction of new items and mechanics means there is a learning curve even for experienced players. Understanding how to effectively use Revered Soul Embers and Scadutree Fragments takes time and experimentation. This can be daunting for some, especially those who prefer to stick to familiar strategies and tools.
Elden Ring’s Shadow of the Erdtree DLC brings a wealth of new content and mechanics that enhance the overall experience. With its balanced difficulty, compact world design, and mirrored progression system, it brings a fresh take on this beloved game. However, minor technical issues, limited range of rewards, and the compressed nature of the new environments present some challenges. Overall, the pros far outweigh the cons, making Shadow of the Erdtree a must-play for any Elden Ring fan. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or new to Elden Ring, this DLC offers an exciting and rewarding adventure that enriches the base game without compromising its core elements.
