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MONSTER

Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree
Item: Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Open World, RPG, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableJun 21, 2024

PlatformPlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PC, Xbox Series X, Xbox One

DeveloperFrom Software

Overview

In Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree players step into the Land of Shadow to explore a new adventure full of mysteries and danger, to confront threatening bosses with new weapons and armor. Follow in the footsteps of Miquella and unravel the dark side of the Elden Ring story. The Shadow of the Erdtree expansion features an all-new story set in the Land of Shadow imbued with mystery, perilous dungeons, and new enemies, weapons and equipment. Discover uncharted territories, face formidable adversaries, and revel in the satisfying triumph of victory. Dive into the riveting interplay of characters, where drama and intrigue intertwine, that create an immersive experience to savor and enjoy.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Praised for its lush lore, atmospheric storytelling, and deepened mythos, Shadow of the Erdtree dazzles with intricate world-building and Miquella’s haunting journey—yet its fragmented, cryptic narrative and unsatisfying ending frustrate as many as it delights, leaving players divided between awe and exasperation.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

68%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

31%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree is praised for its rich lore expansion and atmospheric storytelling, with many critics highlighting its intricate world-building and thematic depth. IGN Portugal and PC Gamer commend the DLC’s ability to weave a complex narrative that challenges players to piece together fragmented clues, while Eurogamer and TechRadar note its exploration of Miquella’s journey through environmental storytelling and cryptic quests. The expansion’s focus on the Realm of Shadow and its connection to Elden Ring’s broader mythos is seen as a strength, with GameSpot and Checkpoint Gaming emphasizing how it deepens character arcs and fills gaps in the original game’s lore. Critics like GGRecon and PC Gamer laud the narrative’s “masterfully embedded” storytelling, which rewards players who engage with its layered mysteries and interconnected stories. The DLC also introduces new characters and settings that add texture to the world, as noted by GameSkinny and Multiplayer.it, even if the plot remains intentionally opaque. However, several critics criticize the story for feeling fragmented, cryptic, or underdeveloped. TheSixthAxis and MMORPG.com describe the ending as unsatisfying and lacking closure, while Jeuxvideo.com repeatedly notes the “mysterious and fragmented” nature of the narrative, which some find frustrating. IGN Portugal and GameRevolution mention that the story’s reliance on environmental storytelling and unexplained elements forces players to rely on community theories, a style that alienates those seeking clarity. Eurogamer and JeuxActu specifically criticize the DLC’s “explicit signposting” and outdated storytelling approach, arguing it undermines the ambiguity that defines FromSoftware’s signature style. Additionally, critics like Noisy Pixel and GameRevolution note that the narrative takes a backseat to combat and exploration, with some finding it convoluted or unengaging. The lack of proper cutscenes and reliance on sparse dialogue also draw criticism, as highlighted by JeuxActu and MeuPlayStation. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Shadow of the Erdtree succeeds as a lore-rich expansion that deepens Elden Ring’s mythos but struggles with narrative coherence and player engagement. While many praise its atmospheric storytelling, intricate world-building, and thematic depth—particularly in exploring Miquella’s fate and the Realm of Shadow—others argue it prioritizes mystery over clarity, leaving key questions unanswered. The DLC’s fragmented approach resonates with fans of FromSoftware’s style but frustrates those seeking a more structured narrative. Critics like PC Gamer and GGRecon highlight its strengths as a “masterfully told” experience, while TheSixthAxis and MMORPG.com underscore its shortcomings in delivering a satisfying conclusion. Ultimately, the expansion is seen as an acquired taste: a rewarding exploration for lore enthusiasts but a divisive entry for players expecting more explicit storytelling.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Shadow of the Erdtree delivers punishing, inventive gameplay with fresh mechanics, jaw-dropping boss fights, and dense exploration—yet stumbles on clunky systems, uneven balance, and frustrating linearity, making it a bold but flawed extension of FromSoftware’s legacy.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

93%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree is widely praised for its depth, innovation, and commitment to FromSoftware’s signature challenge. Critics highlight the introduction of new mechanics like Scadutree Fragments and Revered Spirit Ashes, which add layers to progression and customization, as noted by GameMAG and IGN France. The DLC expands combat diversity with new weapons, armor, and martial arts-style abilities, offering players fresh tools to tackle its dense, vertically oriented world. RPG Site lauds the dynamic difficulty tailored to different builds, while Digital Trends emphasizes the seamless integration of new content into Elden Ring’s open-ended design. Exploration is a standout feature, with critics like Windows Central praising the “denser, less formulaic” experience and hidden secrets that reward meticulous play. Boss fights are frequently highlighted as some of the best in the series, with PlayStation Universe calling them “some of the best in FromSoftware’s history,” and IGN Brasil noting their creative, punishing design. The DLC’s emphasis on discovery and mastery aligns with the core appeal of the Soulsborne genre, as echoed by Finger Guns and Hobby Consolas. However, several critics point to flaws that detract from the experience. TheSixthAxis criticizes the poorly implemented Scadutree Fragments and Revered Spirit Ashes, arguing they feel disconnected from the game’s broader design. Eurogamer and Gamers Heroes note issues with balance, such as high enemy HP making combat tedious or bosses like Radahn feeling unfairly punishing. The DLC’s linearity in certain sections, as mentioned by Eurogamer and 4P.de, contrasts with the main game’s open-world freedom, while Jeuxvideo.com laments the absence of a boss rematch feature, limiting replayability. Some reviewers, like MGG and Multiplayer.it, feel that the expansion leans on “more of everything” rather than innovation, with mechanics that feel recycled or unbalanced. Additionally, GAMINGbible and PC Invasion note that the steep difficulty curve and reliance on exploration for progression can frustrate players unfamiliar with the series’ demands. Despite these criticisms, the majority of critics agree that Shadow of the Erdtree is a strong expansion that enriches Elden Ring’s legacy. While acknowledging its flaws, they emphasize its faithfulness to the Soulsborne formula and its ability to deliver challenging, rewarding gameplay. IGN France and Windows Central praise the DLC’s refined open-world design and new mechanics, while XboxEra and PlayStation Universe highlight its expanded combat depth and boss variety. Even critics who point out shortcomings, like TheSixthAxis and Jeuxvideo.com, acknowledge the DLC’s ambition and dedication to the series’ core principles. Ultimately, the consensus is that Shadow of the Erdtree succeeds as a meaningful extension of Elden Ring, offering veteran players a rich, punishing experience that feels both familiar and fresh. As RPG Site puts it, the expansion “balances familiarity with fresh challenges,” cementing its place as a standout entry in the franchise.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree dazzles with artistic brilliance, immersive world-building, and hauntingly beautiful environments, but technical flaws like texture pop-in and performance issues dim its polish—yet its creative vision and atmospheric depth dominate as a triumph.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

95%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The majority of critics overwhelmingly praised the graphics and visual design of Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree, highlighting its artistic brilliance, atmospheric depth, and meticulous world-building. Reviewers consistently lauded the expansion’s diverse environments, from the hauntingly beautiful Cerulean Coast to the labyrinthine Shadow Keep, noting their intricate details and unique aesthetics. Games.cz emphasized the “monumentally designed environments” and “varied architecture,” while GGRecon called the Shadow Keep’s maze-like structure “mesmerizing.” Eurogamer praised the game’s use of light, color, and artistic influences like Gustav Moreau, and IGN Portugal noted that the Land of Shadow surpassed the original in design and immersion. The expansion’s ability to balance dark, grim aesthetics with moments of vibrant beauty—such as the “grotescamente bonito” (horrifically beautiful) landscapes described by Areajugones—was frequently celebrated. Critics like Wccftech and GamingTrend highlighted the “impressive visual design” of enemies, regions, and boss fights, reinforcing the sense of exploration and wonder that defines the game’s art direction. However, several critics pointed out technical shortcomings that detracted from the visual experience. Games.cz and JeuxActu criticized the graphics as “outdated compared to modern standards,” with issues like texture pop-in, rendering problems, and a lack of polish on PS5 and PC. Push Square noted “texture pop-in and visibility problems at night,” while Vandal and XboxEra mentioned performance hiccups such as rough textures and inconsistent frame rates. Some reviewers, like MGG, felt certain zones in the Shadowlands felt “empty or poorly designed,” lacking the level design excellence of previous entries. Additionally, GamingBolt and PC Gamer acknowledged that while the art style prioritized creativity over cutting-edge visuals, this approach occasionally led to a sense of visual stagnation compared to other modern titles. These technical flaws, though not universally dismissed, were seen as minor blemishes on an otherwise visually ambitious expansion. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics was overwhelmingly positive, with the artistic and environmental design of Shadow of the Erdtree being hailed as a triumph. The expansion’s ability to create immersive, thematically cohesive worlds—whether through the “decayed beauty” of the Lands Between (Gamer.nl) or the “stunning vistas” of the Scadutree (XboxEra)—was widely recognized as a standout achievement. While technical limitations were acknowledged, many reviewers argued that the visual storytelling and creative ambition overshadowed these issues. For instance, Eurogamer Portugal noted that the Terra das Sombras “surpassed the original game in some aspects,” while GameSkinny praised its “fresh aesthetics” despite occasional reuse of main-game elements. Ultimately, critics like IGN Brasil and TheXboxHub emphasized that Shadow of the Erdtree remains a visually stunning experience, with its artistic vision and environmental richness cementing its place as a high point in FromSoftware’s oeuvre.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics raved at Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree’s haunting, orchestral audio design, calling it a masterclass in atmospheric tension and emotional storytelling—epic scores elevate boss battles and lore, while melancholic motifs and dynamic soundscapes deepen immersion. Minor gripes about reused themes or sparse ambient details faded against universal praise for its immersive, grandeur-tinged sonic world.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

96%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree received widespread acclaim, with critics praising their atmospheric depth, emotional resonance, and technical execution. Multiple reviewers highlighted the expansion’s orchestral scores, which elevate boss battles and open-world exploration. For instance, Dot Esports called the soundtrack “epic” and noted its role in enhancing the “best in FromSoftware’s history,” while GamingTrend emphasized how orchestral scores for bosses reflect their narratives, creating a sense of grandeur. PLAY! Zine and RPG Site lauded the dynamic soundscapes, with the latter specifically praising improved sound design that deepens immersion compared to the base game. Themes like religious motifs (as noted by GamersRD) and melancholic tones (per Impulsegamer) were frequently cited for their ability to mirror the game’s dark fantasy setting. The blend of ambient sounds, haunting melodies, and crescendos during combat was repeatedly described as a cornerstone of the experience, with GameSpot noting “sorrowful music” and “haunting operatic singing” that heighten tension in locations like the Shadow Realm. While the majority of reviews were overwhelmingly positive, some critiques pointed to minor shortcomings. A few critics, such as IGN Spain and Jeuxvideo.com, acknowledged the soundtrack’s effectiveness during boss fights but noted a lack of detailed exploration into other audio elements, such as ambient sound effects or non-combat music. Additionally, while most praised the dynamic shifts in music during battles (e.g., GamersRD’s mention of phase-specific compositions), some reviews suggested that the score occasionally relied on familiar motifs from the base game, though this was framed more as a nostalgic nod than a flaw. IGN France acknowledged that some tracks from Elden Ring were reused but emphasized that the DLC’s music remained “immersive and impactful.” These critiques were relatively minor compared to the general enthusiasm, with many reviewers acknowledging that the sound design’s strengths far outweighed any perceived limitations. The overall consensus among critics was unequivocally positive, with nearly all highlighting the expansion’s exceptional audio work as a defining feature. Areajugones praised the “haunting melodies” that evoke emotional responses while maintaining the original game’s quality, and Gamepressure called the audio-visual experience “top-notch.” Even reviewers who offered brief remarks, like MeuPlayStation and XboxEra, emphasized the soundtrack’s role in enhancing immersion and combat. The recurring themes of epic orchestration, atmospheric depth, and emotional storytelling underscored a shared appreciation for how the sound design elevated the game’s lore and mechanics. While no review was entirely negative, the near-unanimous praise reflects a strong belief that Shadow of the Erdtree’s audio work not only meets but exceeds expectations, solidifying its place as a standout element of the expansion.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Critics rave about Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree's voice acting, calling it a masterclass in character depth and atmospheric storytelling—medieval accents, nuanced performances, and immersive dialogue elevate lore, quests, and emotional stakes, with no major critiques to soften the praise.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

83%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

17%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree receives widespread acclaim, with critics highlighting its ability to enrich character development and narrative depth. Atomix praises the "unique dialects and medieval English accents" that add authenticity to new characters, while Checkpoint Gaming commends the "terrific English voice acting and writing," noting how it brings "charming faces" to life in the Shadow Realm. Impulsegamer emphasizes the "top-notch voice acting for new characters," which enhances their motivations and secrets, and PC Gamer appreciates the "engaging and diverse voice acting" that breathes life into the story. Windows Central specifically highlights the "great dialogue and voice acting" in questlines, crediting it with deepening emotional immersion. These reviews collectively underscore how the voice work elevates the expansion’s lore and character interactions, making it a standout element of the experience. While the majority of critics laud the voice acting, there are no explicit negative critiques mentioned in the provided opinions. The absence of criticism suggests that the voice work is consistently praised across all aspects, from character design to narrative integration. However, one could infer that some reviewers might have found the voice acting less impactful in certain areas—such as minor NPCs or non-essential story beats—but this remains unaddressed in the given reviews. The focus on major characters and lore-driven moments indicates that the voice work’s strengths lie in its ability to serve key storytelling elements rather than every in-game interaction. The overall consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with all reviewers agreeing that the voice acting significantly enhances Shadow of the Erdtree. Gamepressure notes that the "lore and characters are engaging," a sentiment echoed by PC Gamer and Windows Central, who emphasize how the performances contribute to immersion and emotional depth. Atomix’s observation about medieval accents and Impulsegamer’s praise for compelling motivations further illustrate how the voice work aligns with the game’s atmospheric goals. Taken together, these reviews paint a picture of a meticulously crafted audio experience that complements FromSoftware’s signature storytelling, ensuring the expansion feels both immersive and thematically cohesive.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree delivers smoother, more stable gameplay on PS5 and Xbox Series X compared to PC, where performance hiccups like frame drops and graphical glitches persist. Consoles shine with optimized textures and fewer crashes, while PC faces bugs and hardware strain—highlighting ongoing cross-platform challenges. Despite minor flaws, the DLC’s ambition overshadows technical issues, but console vs. PC optimization gaps remain a sticking point.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

19%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

75%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree varies across platforms, with notable strengths on PS5 and Xbox Series X. On PS5, several critics praised its stability, with COGconnected and Digital Chumps noting flawless gameplay during 60+ hours of playtime, while GamePro Germany acknowledged general stability despite frame rate drops in dungeons. For Xbox Series X, Generación Xbox highlighted improved optimization compared to the base game, and TheXboxHub reported no slowdowns or stuttering even with high particle effects. On PC, Gamepressure praised stable performance at high graphics settings, though some critics like GamingBolt and GINX TV noted issues at 4K resolution and during boss fights, respectively. Overall, the DLC maintained a smooth experience on consoles, particularly for PS5 and Xbox Series X, with fewer major technical hurdles compared to PC. However, technical shortcomings were evident across all platforms. On PS5, critics like Dot Esports and JeuxActu highlighted minor bugs (e.g., boss glitches, outdated graphics engines) and frame rate inconsistencies in dungeons, while GamersRD noted the DLC’s performance mirrored the 2022 base game without significant improvements. For PC, the issues were more pronounced: GamingBolt and Wccftech reported frame drops and freezes at high settings, and IGN Italia criticized repetitive enemy encounters and performance hiccups. On Xbox Series X, Digital Trends reiterated persistent third-person camera issues from the original game, while GAMINGbible noted that PC optimization problems lingered despite the DLC’s release. These flaws, though often minor, underscored ongoing challenges in balancing graphical fidelity with performance across platforms. The overall consensus among critics reflects a mixed but largely stable technical experience. While PS5 and Xbox Series X received praise for their smoother gameplay and fewer crashes—particularly on Xbox, where Generación Xbox highlighted improved optimization—PC faced more frequent performance issues, including frame rate drops and graphical glitches. Critics like GamePro Germany and JeuxActu emphasized that while technical flaws exist, they rarely hindered the core experience, with many noting that these issues are typical for FromSoftware’s titles. Despite platform-specific challenges, most reviewers agreed that Shadow of the Erdtree maintained a solid foundation, with the DLC’s ambitious design overshadowing its technical imperfections. The disparity in optimization between consoles and PC, however, remains a point of contention, reflecting broader industry trends in cross-platform development.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Shadow of the Erdtree delivers stellar replay value through rich exploration, inventive mechanics, and endless experimentation, with critics praising its sprawling world, hidden lore, and New Game Plus appeal—though some called out uneven pacing, repetition, and DLC limitations. A must-play for fans, despite flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

78%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

22%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The majority of critics praised Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree for its robust replay value, emphasizing its depth through exploration, varied gameplay mechanics, and opportunities for experimentation. Reviewers like IGN Spain highlighted the DLC’s potential for multiple playthroughs via new weapons, builds, and challenges, while GameSpot noted the dense world and strategic diversity that encourage players to revisit areas with different approaches. Eurogamer Portugal and Atomix celebrated the expansion’s vast content, unique mechanics, and complex map design, which sustain engagement beyond a single completion. Siliconera and GamingTrend also pointed to hidden lore, secret areas, and New Game Plus as key drivers of replayability, with many critics (e.g., TechRadar Gaming, Multiplayer.it) noting that the DLC feels substantial enough to stand alone as a game. The emphasis on exploration, discovery, and evolving strategies created a strong foundation for repeated playthroughs, particularly for fans of the original game’s open-ended design. However, some critics noted limitations that could dampen replayability for certain players. Eurogamer and Malditos Nerds pointed to issues like the DLC’s linearity, difficulty spikes, and underwhelming mechanics, which might frustrate those seeking seamless progression. GamingTrend and Push Square mentioned that the expansion felt smaller than expected or repetitive, particularly for high-level players, while GINX TV and Digital Chumps noted that some areas lacked reward post-credits, creating a sense of stagnation. Additionally, MGG and Noisy Pixel acknowledged that as a DLC, its replayability is inherently constrained compared to a full game, though this didn’t detract from its overall appeal. These critiques often centered on specific design choices or pacing issues rather than the DLC’s core concept, which many still found compelling. Despite these reservations, the consensus among critics was overwhelmingly positive regarding Shadow of the Erdtree’s replay value. Most reviewers, including Game Informer, Destructoid, and IGN Adria, emphasized that the expansion’s intricate world design, hidden secrets, and endgame content provided lasting engagement. Even critics who highlighted flaws acknowledged the DLC’s ability to entice players back through its challenges and exploration. The combination of new mechanics, varied builds, and a sprawling map ensured that many saw it as a worthwhile addition for both newcomers and veterans. As GameSpot and TrueGaming noted, the expansion successfully built on Elden Ring’s strengths, offering a rich experience that justified multiple playthroughs. While not flawless, its depth and ambition solidified its reputation as a highly replayable extension of the game’s universe.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

96%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The majority of critics overwhelmingly praised Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree as a masterful expansion that elevates the already exceptional base game. Many highlighted its rich world-building, intricate level design, and faithful adherence to FromSoftware’s signature style. IGN Benelux hailed it as a “masterpiece” surpassing expectations, while RPG Site awarded it a perfect 10/10, calling it the best expansion FromSoftware has ever made and a “perfect ending” to an already near-perfect game. Critics like Game Informer and COGconnected emphasized its ability to expand Elden Ring’s universe with new content, storytelling, and gameplay mechanics that feel both familiar and innovative. The DLC’s scale was frequently noted as staggering—PC Gamer called it a “stunning achievement,” while MeuPlayStation described it as an experience so robust it could stand alone. Even critics who acknowledged minor flaws, such as Wccftech and Jeuxvideo.com, praised its “unparalleled quality” and “meticulous design,” underscoring its value as a must-play for fans of the series. However, several critiques emerged regarding specific aspects of the DLC. Eurogamer and TheSixthAxis pointed to issues like explicit signposting, uncharacteristic hand-holding, and a final boss perceived as overly punishing, though these were exceptions rather than the norm. GameStar questioned whether the expansion significantly enhanced Elden Ring or simply offered more of the same, while PlayStation Country expressed a desire for tighter design and fewer dungeons. GAMINGbible and Wccftech noted technical issues on PC, such as performance hiccups, which detracted from the experience. Additionally, some critics, like Siliconera and Gamepressure, felt the DLC leaned too heavily on repetition, with Siliconera describing it as “more of the same” despite its strengths. While these criticisms were present, they often came with caveats—Inverse acknowledged the punishing difficulty but called it a “masterclass in design,” and PC Invasion praised its “punishing yet rewarding” nature, suggesting that challenges were seen as part of the game’s identity rather than flaws. Despite these critiques, the overall consensus among critics was overwhelmingly positive, with many declaring Shadow of the Erdtree one of the best expansions in gaming history. Critics like IGN Benelux, RPG Site, and MeuPlayStation emphasized its ability to redefine expansion standards, offering a “crowning glory” to Elden Ring’s legacy. Even reviewers who noted minor issues, such as Jeuxvideo.com and PCGamesN, acknowledged the DLC’s “exceptional adventure” and “thrilling final adventure,” respectively. The expansion was consistently praised for its depth, creativity, and emotional resonance, with Checkpoint Gaming calling it “one of the best FromSoftware experiences to date.” While some critics, like TheSixthAxis and Eurogamer, remained cautiously split, the overwhelming majority viewed Shadow of the Erdtree as a worthy, even essential, addition to Elden Ring’s legacy. Its combination of challenge, exploration, and storytelling solidified its place as a standout title in the Souls series, proving that FromSoftware’s formula remains as potent as ever.

TL;DR

Critics laud Shadow of the Erdtree as a masterful, near-perfect expansion, praising its rich world-building, innovative yet familiar gameplay, and staggering scale—called a "stunning achievement" and "perfect ending" to Elden Ring. While minor critiques like hand-holding, repetition, and technical hiccups surfaced, they were overshadowed by universal acclaim for its depth, design, and emotional resonance, cementing it as one of gaming’s greatest expansions.

MONSTER

Reviews

203 reviews found

100

Generación Xbox

Xbox Series X

Jun 18, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Shadow of the Erdtree exceeds expectations as a standalone expansion, offering a richly detailed world, improved technical performance, and meaningful lore additions. It is hailed as one of the best DLCs in the Souls series, though some minor flaws exist.

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100

IGN Spain

PlayStation 5

Jun 18, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer calls Shadow of the Erdtree a 'broche de oro' (crowning glory) for Elden Ring, praising its depth, design, and ability to redefine expansion standards. It's described as an essential experience for fans and a strong addition to the series.

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100

Windows Central

Jun 18, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

A masterful expansion that refines Elden Ring's strengths, delivering an immersive, challenging, and rewarding experience. It is praised as a must-play for Soulsborne fans, with high acclaim for its design, storytelling, and boss fights.

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100

Digital Chumps

PlayStation 5

Jun 18, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

A highly praised DLC that expands on Elden Ring's strengths with exceptional world design, storytelling, and gameplay. It is recommended for fans of the main game, despite minor drawbacks like missing trophies.

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100

Dexerto

PlayStation 5

Jun 18, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

A 5/5 review that calls Shadow of the Erdtree a fitting tribute to Elden Ring, praising its expansion of the world, satisfying conclusion to story arcs, and ability to surprise players. It is seen as a standout DLC that elevates the original game.

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100

Areajugones

Jun 18, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review is overwhelmingly positive, calling Shadow of the Erdtree a must-buy and comparing it to a GOTY candidate. The reviewer emphasizes its value as a DLC that feels like a new game, with extensive content and high-quality design.

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100

GameSpot

Jun 18, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

A masterful expansion that enhances Elden Ring's legacy, praised for its world-building, narrative depth, and gameplay refinement. It is described as a triumph in dark fantasy, matching the original's brilliance and offering an unforgettable experience.

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100

But Why Tho?

PlayStation 5

Jun 18, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree is praised for its familiar yet unique experience, earning a perfect score of 10/10 as a thrilling final adventure with its own identity.

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100

Checkpoint Gaming

PlayStation 5

Jun 18, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Shadow of the Erdtree enriches the Elden Ring experience with its atmospheric storytelling, challenging combat, superb visuals, and creative design, making it one of the best FromSoftware experiences to date.

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100

IGN France

Jun 18, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review calls Shadow of the Erdtree a "pure œuvre d’art" (pure work of art) that elevates Elden Ring further. Despite some technical and ergonomic flaws, it is praised as a masterpiece and the perfect addition to the original game.

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