What Is Shadow of the Erdtree?

Shadow of the Erdtree is the massive expansion to Elden Ring, widely considered one of the most content-rich DLC releases in action RPG history. Set in the Land of Shadow, it introduces entirely new areas, bosses, weapons, spells, and story content centered around Miquella and the mysteries surrounding the Erdtree's shadow.

It's also notoriously difficult — even for players who cleared the base game. Here's how to go in prepared.

Entry Requirements

To access Shadow of the Erdtree, you must complete two specific objectives in the base game:

  1. Defeat Starscourge Radahn – The Shardbearing demigod found in Caelid at Redmane Castle.
  2. Defeat Mohg, Lord of Blood – Located in Mohgwyn Palace (accessible via a hidden path in the Consecrated Snowfield or through Varre's questline).

After defeating Mohg, interact with the withered arm in his arena to enter the DLC zone.

Recommended Character Level & Stats

The DLC is balanced for endgame characters. The general community recommendation is:

  • Character Level: 150+ (ideally 150–180)
  • Vigor: At least 55–60 — the DLC bosses hit extremely hard
  • Primary Offensive Stat (STR/DEX/INT/FTH/ARC): 70–80 for good damage output
  • Weapon: Fully upgraded to +25 (regular) or +10 (Somber)

The Scadutree Blessing System

Shadow of the Erdtree introduces a new power-scaling system: Scadutree Fragments. These collectibles, scattered throughout the DLC, are used at Sites of Grace to raise your Scadutree Blessing level — which directly increases your damage dealt and reduces damage received inside the DLC.

This is the single most important mechanic in the DLC. If enemies feel impossibly tanky and you're dying in two hits, you almost certainly need more Scadutree Blessings. Prioritize finding fragments over rushing bosses.

Key Areas to Explore First

  1. Gravesite Plain – The opening hub area. Explore thoroughly before pushing into later zones; it's dense with fragments and useful items.
  2. Belurat, Tower Settlement – The first major legacy dungeon. Rewards include a powerful new spirit ash (Igon) and significant Scadutree Fragments.
  3. Ruined Forge Lava Intake – Contains Black Steel weapon upgrades for unique DLC armaments.

Tips for the DLC's Toughest Bosses

  • Don't rush the final boss area. Complete side dungeons and collect Scadutree Fragments until you feel comfortable. The DLC is not a linear rush — exploration is rewarded.
  • Use Revered Spirit Ashes. Like Scadutree Fragments, Revered Spirit Ash items upgrade your summons specifically for DLC content. Find and use these to keep your Ashes useful.
  • Watch for delayed attacks. DLC bosses have significantly more delayed, feint-heavy movesets than base game enemies. Be patient — learn the timing before committing to punish windows.
  • Golden Vow + Physick Flask: Buff before every boss fight. The DLC rewards preparation over raw aggression.

New Weapons Worth Seeking Out

Shadow of the Erdtree introduces many powerful new weapon categories and specific armaments:

  • Light Greatswords – Fast, versatile, and strong with a range of Ashes of War.
  • Backhand Blades – Unique dual-wield moveset that feels entirely new.
  • Dueling Shields – Aggressive shields that can deal significant damage while blocking.

Take your time with Shadow of the Erdtree. It's a dense, rewarding expansion that punishes impatience but richly rewards thorough exploration. With the right preparation, it's one of the most memorable gaming experiences the action RPG genre has to offer.