Is Elden Ring's Shadow of the Erdtree Worth It? A Complete Review

Shadow of the Erdtree isn’t just DLC. It’s FromSoftware pulling you back into the Lands Between with a sharpened blade and a whisper of forgotten gods. And with the long-awaited expansion finally in our hands, the real question is: does it live up to the legacy of Elden Ring, or does it feel like a ghost of its former self?

This review cuts through the noise. We’ve played it, died in it, wept in frustration, and returned for more. Here’s the unfiltered verdict.

Let’s Talk First Impressions

From the opening minutes, Shadow of the Erdtree wastes no time establishing its mood. You’re greeted by a decaying horizon, golden skies soured with shadow, and whispers of lore laced into every corner of the terrain. This is not a copy-paste of the base game.

The world feels new. The dread? Familiar.

Expect to be disoriented in the best way possible. This isn’t hand-holding territory. You’re dropped into a landscape shaped by forgotten divinity and corruption, with map fragments that tease more than they reveal. Classic FromSoftware.

Is the Combat Better? Absolutely.

If you thought Elden Ring was challenging, this DLC will make you reconsider your build choices. Bosses are smarter, faster, and more unpredictable. Some come with mechanics that feel straight out of a psychological horror sequence. Think precision dodging meets cosmic despair.

New weapons and spells allow for more creative builds. Whip-swords, for instance, are stylish and deadly, especially when paired with the new bleed-enhancing talismans. And if you leaned into sorcery in the base game, there’s plenty of fresh magic to experiment with.

In short, combat feels tighter, deadlier, and more satisfying.

Worldbuilding That Rivals the Base Game

One of Elden Ring's biggest strengths has always been its environmental storytelling. And Shadow of the Erdtree keeps that bar high.

You’ll wander into crumbling temples where the walls whisper secrets, descend into ruined crypts lit by flickering blue flame, and stumble across NPCs with cryptic motives and rich dialogue. The new zones offer vertical exploration layered with secrets and rewards.

The Haligtree was haunting. The DLC takes that energy and multiplies it.

How Long Is the DLC?

Depending on your build, playstyle, and tendency to explore every dark crevice, you're looking at 25 to 35 hours of content. That includes:

• 12+ new mainline and hidden bosses
• A vast new area with multiple biomes
• Dozens of new weapons, armor sets, and talismans
• Lore-heavy side quests with returning and new NPCs

This isn’t a bite-sized epilogue. It’s a full-blown chapter in the Elden Ring saga.

Key Additions That Make It Worth Playing

• Enhanced Spirit Ashes mechanics: You can now fine-tune their behavior and synergy with your build.
• New faction-based side quests: Your choices influence the world’s end state.
• Dynamic weather and lighting changes: These aren’t just aesthetic; they affect stealth and enemy behavior.
• Tactical tools: Smoke bombs, shadow grenades, and enemy lure whistles open up new combat strategies.

And yes, if you want a reason to start a new character, this expansion gives you at least five.

Who Is Miquella, and Why Does He Matter Now?

Long teased and barely seen in the base game, Miquella takes center stage here. He’s not your traditional protagonist. His motivations are blurred, possibly divine, possibly damning. You’ll spend hours piecing together his intentions from fragmented lore, cryptic dialogue, and the ruins of what he left behind.

Miquella adds complexity to a universe already dense with moral grayness. His presence elevates the stakes and redefines your understanding of the Erdtree.

Base Game vs. DLC — How Do They Stack Up?

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Base Game:

• Playtime: 100+ hours
• Major Regions: 6
• Bosses: 100+
• Builds: Diverse, with limited customization for Spirit Ashes
• Visual Style: Grand and golden

Shadow of the Erdtree:

• Playtime: 25–35 hours
• Major Region: 1 enormous, interconnected map
• Bosses: 12+, all unique
• Builds: Expanded with new tools, weapons, and magic
• Visual Style: Rot-infused beauty, darker, more personal

The expansion doesn’t try to outdo the base game in size. It refines and deepens what was already there.

Is It Newbie Friendly?

Not really. This content is tailored for mid-to-late game characters. If you’re under-leveled or haven’t optimized your gear, you’re going to struggle. But that’s part of the point.

You’re expected to come prepared. If you haven’t yet picked up the game, it’s the perfect time to grab an Elden Ring EU Steam CD Key from RoyalCDKeys and start leveling up. The base game remains a masterclass in action RPGs, and the DLC feels like a seamless extension.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

Without a doubt.

Shadow of the Erdtree is more than just extra content. It’s FromSoftware reminding us they still know how to raise the bar. The combat is sharper. The story is richer. The world is stranger.

It’s difficult, yes. But it’s also unforgettable.

If you loved Elden Ring, this is a must-play. If you’re new, this is the excuse you’ve been waiting for. Either way, buy the key, polish your weapon, and walk into the shadow.

The Erdtree isn’t done with you yet.

Don’t forget to explore our previous post: Rust PC Guide: Best Tips and Tricks for Beginners