FromSoftware's massive expansion for Elden Ring, Shadow of the Erdtree, is now available at a discounted price of $35.19 / £30.79 via Fanatical, marking a 12% reduction from its usual cost. This represents the first significant sale for the highly praised downloadable content.
Shadow of the Erdtree aims to significantly ramp up the difficulty, even for seasoned players returning with New Game+ save files. The expansion introduces the Realm of Shadow, a new map described as a more perilous iteration of Elden Ring's Lands Between. While the base game's challenges, such as defeating bosses like Radahn and Malenia, may have prepared some players, the expansion presents a considerable escalation in difficulty. This is underscored by the fact that FromSoftware opted to nerf the expansion's climactic boss fight due to its initial extreme challenge.
To help players overcome the heightened obstacles, Shadow of the Erdtree includes new weapons that encourage build experimentation, alongside Scadutree Blessings. These blessings offer boosts to attack power and damage negation specifically within the Realm of Shadow, providing a means to mitigate some of the inherent difficulty.
Despite the increased challenge, the expansion has garnered widespread critical acclaim. It delves into one of the base game's lingering mysteries, introducing new areas and lore delivered in FromSoftware's signature narrative style. Reviewers have lauded it as a superb example of how DLC should be crafted, with some considering it an essential addition that elevates the overall Elden Ring experience. The expansion holds a 'Very Positive' rating on Steam, with 85% of player reviews being favorable.
This discount offers a compelling opportunity for players to jump into Shadow of the Erdtree. The deal provides a Steam key, meaning a separate purchase of the base game is not required for those who might have acquired it on different platforms. Players should, however, remain wary of new threats within the Realm of Shadow, including the formidable Misbegotten.