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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: Critik Editorial Team

2024

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

AvailableJun 21, 2024

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

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

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TL;DR

Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree receives praise for its rich lore and intricate storytelling, though some critics find the narrative cryptic and confusing. New characters like Miquella add depth, but the ending feels underwhelming to some. Overall, it successfully expands the Elden Ring universe, enhancing player experience despite concerns over clarity and resolution.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

84%

Mixed (50-79)

13%

Negative (0-49)

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

The story of Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who appreciate its rich lore and intricate storytelling. Reviewers like Atomix and GameMAG highlight the expansion's cryptic and minimalistic narrative style, which encourages player interpretation and engagement with the world. Critics such as But Why Tho? and Checkpoint Gaming commend the renewed sense of discovery and the depth added to the existing lore, emphasizing the atmospheric storytelling and intricate world design. The introduction of new characters, particularly Miquella, is noted by multiple reviewers, including Impulsegamer and TechRadar Gaming, who see this as a compelling narrative thread that interweaves with the game's established themes of power, betrayal, and morality. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics have pointed out shortcomings in the storytelling. Dot Esports and MMORPG.com express concerns that the narrative can be confusing and may require external lore resources for full comprehension, suggesting that it raises more questions than it answers. Critics like TheSixthAxis and PCGamesN also criticize the ending as underwhelming and lacking a satisfying conclusion, which may leave some players feeling unfulfilled. Additionally, Noisy Pixel and LevelUp mention that the story can sometimes feel abstract or convoluted, taking a backseat to the game's combat and exploration elements. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Shadow of the Erdtree succeeds in expanding the Elden Ring universe through its compelling narrative and rich lore, despite some criticisms regarding clarity and resolution. The majority of reviewers, such as Meristation and PC Gamer, appreciate how the expansion deepens the thematic scope of the original game while introducing new elements that enhance the player's experience. While some aspects of the story may be challenging to navigate, the expansion is seen as a valuable addition to the Elden Ring saga, with many critics eager to explore its mysteries and character arcs further.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree impresses critics with its rich gameplay, challenging mechanics, and innovative features like warrior companions and a complex Shadow Realm. While the combat system is hailed as highly rewarding, some critics note issues with new mechanics and a lack of truly formidable bosses. Despite minor drawbacks, the expansion is praised for its depth, exploration, and content, solidifying its place as a must-play in the Elden Ring universe.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

97%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree has garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, who praise its depth, challenge, and innovative mechanics. Reviewers like Atomix and Dot Esports highlight the expansion's introduction of new elements, such as a group of warriors to accompany players and a more complex exploration experience in the Shadow Realm. Many critics, including But Why Tho? and GameMAG, note the addition of new blessings, equipment, and challenging boss battles, which blend familiar gameplay with fresh experiences. The combat system is particularly lauded, with MMORPG.com calling it one of the most rewarding ever created, and Game Revolution mentioning the engaging combat and new weapons that enhance the overall experience. The expansion's focus on exploration and character progression, as noted by MeuPlayStation and PC Gamer, further enriches the gameplay, providing players with a sense of accomplishment and discovery. Despite the largely positive reception, some criticisms have emerged regarding certain gameplay mechanics. For instance, TheSixthAxis expressed concerns about the implementation of new mechanics like Scadutree Fragments and Revered Spirit Ashes, suggesting they may not align well with the existing game design. Additionally, while many reviewers acknowledged the increased difficulty as a positive aspect, Gamepressure pointed out that the heightened challenge might be overwhelming for some players. Critics like Game Revolution also noted a lack of a super challenging boss equivalent to Malenia, which could leave some players wanting more in terms of boss encounters. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree delivers an exceptional gameplay experience that builds upon the strengths of the original game. The majority of reviewers, including GamersRD and Meristation, agree that the expansion offers a wealth of content, including new weapons, armor, and intricate level designs, which enhance the overall challenge and enjoyment. While some minor issues exist, such as the implementation of new mechanics and the varying difficulty levels, the expansion is widely regarded as a worthy addition to the Elden Ring universe, providing players with a rich and rewarding adventure that encourages exploration and skillful combat.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree dazzles with stunning graphics and immersive environments, earning rave reviews for its artistic design and detailed landscapes. Critics praise its rich lore and captivating audiovisuals, especially in boss fights. However, some technical performance issues, including rendering problems and rough textures close-up, slightly mar the experience. Overall, it’s a visually striking expansion that enhances the Elden Ring universe, despite a few execution hiccups.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

97%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree is overwhelmingly positive, with critics praising the game's aesthetic and environmental artistry. Reviewers like Atomix and Dot Esports highlighted the expansion's unique and hauntingly beautiful environments, showcasing a mix of eerie and vibrant landscapes that enhance the player's experience. The intricate level design, as noted by critics such as Metro GameCentral and MeuPlayStation, not only rewards exploration but also immerses players in the game's rich lore through its detailed architectural elements. Many reviewers, including MMORPG.com and PlayStation Country, emphasized the impressive audiovisual presentation, particularly during boss encounters, which contribute to the game's overall captivating atmosphere. While the majority of opinions are favorable, some critics pointed out technical performance issues that detracted from the visual experience. Vandal noted rendering problems, and TechRadar Gaming mentioned performance issues on both console and PC, particularly in densely populated areas. XboxEra echoed this sentiment, mentioning that while the game features beautiful vistas, texture work can appear rough up close. These concerns suggest that despite the artistic brilliance, technical execution may not always meet the high standards set by the visual design. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree excels in its graphics and visual design, creating a visually stunning experience that resonates with players. Reviewers like GamersRD and GameMAG praised the detailed character models and environmental design, while others like Hooked Gamers and LevelUp celebrated the game's artistic direction and immersive world. Despite some noted performance issues, the overwhelming sentiment is that the expansion successfully builds upon the established aesthetic of Elden Ring, offering players a rich and visually engaging experience that is both familiar and refreshingly new.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics are raving about the sound design and music in Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree, praising its atmospheric depth, epic orchestral score, and emotionally resonant audio that enhances gameplay. While a few minor critiques hint at a desire for more emotional variety, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive, solidifying the expansion’s musical elements as standout features in FromSoftware's legacy.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

100%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (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 have garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, highlighting the expansion's ability to enhance the atmospheric experience of the game. Reviewers such as Atomix and Dot Esports praised the atmospheric sound design, with Atomix noting the effective use of classic choirs during battles and a blend of ambient sounds that contribute to the immersive audio experience. The orchestral soundtrack received accolades for its epic quality, particularly during boss encounters, with critics like GamersRD and Vandal emphasizing how the music dynamically shifts to match the intensity of battles. This attention to detail in sound design not only enriches the gameplay but also evokes strong emotional responses, as noted by Impulsegamer, who remarked on the melancholy score that complements the Land of Shadow's atmosphere. While the majority of critiques are favorable, there are few mentions that suggest areas for improvement or a lack of innovation. However, the reviews do not explicitly highlight significant negatives regarding the sound design and music, indicating a consensus that the expansion meets or exceeds expectations. Some critics, like Checkpoint Gaming, focus on the haunting melodies that build tension, which might imply a desire for more varied emotional ranges in the score. Nonetheless, these concerns are minor and do not detract from the overall acclaim the sound design has received. In conclusion, the overall sentiment among critics is highly positive, with most agreeing that Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree excels in its sound design and music. The expansion successfully builds upon the atmospheric foundations of its predecessor, with a rich orchestral score and immersive audio that enhance both exploration and combat. Critics such as Noisy Pixel and PC Gamer encapsulate this sentiment well, noting how the music not only complements the visuals but also amplifies the emotional weight of the gameplay experience. With no major criticisms to overshadow the praise, it is clear that the sound design and music are standout features of this expansion, solidifying its place in FromSoftware's legacy.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree showcases mixed technical performance across platforms. PS5 and Xbox Series X offer solid foundations with minor bugs, but frame rate issues persist. PC struggles with optimization, particularly at 4K, leading to stability problems. Critics agree there's potential for improvement, urging future patches for a smoother gameplay experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

14%

Mixed (50-79)

86%

Negative (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree has garnered a range of opinions across different gaming platforms. On the PS5, critics like GamersRD noted that the performance remains consistent with the base game from 2022, suggesting a solid foundation. Dot Esports and Impulsegamer acknowledged minor bugs, such as bosses pausing mid-fight and premature story progression, but emphasized that these issues are not game-breaking. Additionally, TheXboxHub reported a smooth experience on the Xbox Series X, with no slowdown or stuttering, even when high particle effects were present. Critics like Gamepressure praised the PC version for running stably at high graphics settings without crashes, indicating a strong performance under optimal conditions. However, the reviews also highlighted various technical shortcomings across platforms. On the PS5, Meristation pointed out frame rate issues that were more prevalent than in the original game, while Metro GameCentral mentioned texture loading glitches upon respawning. On PC, the situation appeared more problematic, with GamingBolt encountering performance issues at 4K resolution, necessitating a resolution drop for stability. GINX TV and Wccftech echoed these concerns, noting frame rate drops and occasional freezes, particularly during boss fights. Xbox Series X users also faced challenges, as TechRadar Gaming reported performance dips and visual oddities, with frame rates dropping to 30-40fps in dense areas, although XboxEra noted a generally stable experience. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests a mixed bag of technical performance across all platforms. While the PS5 and Xbox Series X versions have their moments of stability, they are marred by minor bugs and frame rate issues. The PC version, while capable of delivering high graphics performance, suffers from significant optimization problems that affect gameplay, especially during intense moments. Critics like Wccftech and GINX TV indicate that while the game is playable, there is considerable room for improvement, particularly in terms of optimization and stability across all platforms. The overall sentiment reflects a hope for future patches to address these issues, ensuring a smoother experience for players.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

"Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree" is a hit, praised for its rich content and engaging mechanics that boost replay value with new challenges and exploration. Critics highlight extensive weapons and character progression, enhancing gameplay depth. However, some note a lack of new trophies and post-boss exploration feeling less rewarding. Despite minor drawbacks, the consensus is clear: it's a must-play expansion, offering substantial content and a rewarding experience for both newcomers and veterans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

79%

Mixed (50-79)

21%

Negative (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of "Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree" is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the expansion for its rich content and engaging gameplay mechanics. Reviewers like Atomix and But Why Tho? highlight the numerous new challenges, optional bosses, and exploration opportunities that encourage players to return for multiple playthroughs. The vertical exploration and complex map design noted by Atomix, along with the extensive new weapons and character progression systems mentioned by Checkpoint Gaming, contribute to a sense of depth that invites players to experiment with different playstyles. Additionally, the expansion's ability to extend playtime significantly, as noted by Game Revolution and PCGamesN, further solidifies its appeal for those seeking substantial content. However, there are some criticisms regarding the replay value that merit attention. MeuPlayStation points out the lack of new trophies, which may impact the exploration experience by not providing adequate guidance for players to uncover missed content. Furthermore, GINX TV mentions that exploration and endgame content can feel less rewarding after defeating mainline bosses, suggesting that some areas might lack the engagement needed to sustain interest post-completion. Critics like PC Invasion also note that while the DLC encourages replayability, some rewards may feel underwhelming for players who have maxed out their weapons and builds, potentially dampening the motivation to replay the content. Despite these minor criticisms, the consensus among critics is that "Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree" offers a highly rewarding replay experience. Many reviewers, including GamersRD and Metro GameCentral, emphasize the significant amount of new content, challenges, and gameplay variety that enhance the original game. The expansion is seen as not just an addition but a substantial experience in its own right, as TechRadar Gaming and XboxEra assert. Overall, the majority of critics agree that the replay value is very good, making it a worthwhile investment for both new players and veterans of the franchise.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

96%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding "Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree" is overwhelmingly positive, with critics praising the expansion for its rich and immersive experience. Reviewers like Atomix and Dot Esports highlight the captivating story, engaging gameplay, and stunning visuals, stating that the expansion not only enhances the original game but also stands as a potential game of the year contender. Critics such as Checkpoint Gaming and Impulsegamer commend the atmospheric storytelling and challenging combat, emphasizing the high replay value and the unique vertical exploration in the Shadow Realm. The expansion is described as a must-play by several reviewers, including MMORPG.com and GamersRD, who note its fulfilling content for both hardcore fans and newcomers alike. Despite the strong praise, some critics pointed out a few drawbacks. Metro GameCentral and PlayStation Country mentioned issues related to pacing and the obscure access to the DLC, while others like MeuPlayStation noted the incomplete story and lack of new trophies as minor disappointments. The difficulty spikes, particularly in the final boss encounters, were highlighted by XboxEra and LevelUp as potentially frustrating for some players. Additionally, there were mentions of technical hiccups, especially on PC, which could detract from the overall experience, as noted by GAMINGbible and Wccftech. In summary, the consensus among critics is that "Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree" is a remarkable expansion that successfully builds upon the foundations of the original game. The majority of reviewers, including Slant Magazine and PC Gamer, view it as an essential addition that enhances the core experience, despite some minor criticisms regarding pacing, difficulty, and technical issues. Overall, it is celebrated as one of the best expansions in recent years, with many suggesting that it could stand alone as a complete game.

TL;DR

"Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree" is a critically acclaimed expansion, lauded for its immersive storytelling, engaging gameplay, and breathtaking visuals, positioning it as a potential game of the year. Reviewers praise its replay value and unique exploration, deeming it a must-play for fans and newcomers alike. However, minor criticisms include pacing issues, difficulty spikes, and some technical glitches, particularly on PC. Overall, it solidifies its status as one of the best expansions in recent years, worth playing even on its own.

MONSTER

Reviews

197 reviews found

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

Vandal

Jun 18, 2024

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

The expansion is highly praised for its quality content, level design, challenging bosses, and gameplay enhancements, making it a must-play for fans of the base game.

100

Wccftech

Jun 18, 2024

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

Shadow of the Erdtree is praised for its quality content, engaging open-world design, and ability to evoke wonder despite lack of innovation and technical hiccups.

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100

Impulsegamer

PlayStation 5

Jun 18, 2024

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

Shadow of the Erdtree is a must-play DLC expansion that delivers high-quality content additions, worth the two-year wait and highly recommended for both hardcore fans and new players.

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100

Game Revolution

Jun 20, 2024

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

Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree is a fantastic expansion that seamlessly integrates into the main game, providing both quantity and quality content that enhances the overall experience.

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100

GamingBolt

Jun 18, 2024

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

Exceptional expansion surpassing typical standards, offering an abundance of content comparable to a full-fledged game. Stable PC performance would have enhanced the experience.

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100

TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

Jun 21, 2024

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

Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree is an awesome expansion that enhances the Elden Ring experience, providing a challenging and satisfying gameplay experience.

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100

MeuPlayStation

PlayStation 5

Jun 18, 2024

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

Shadow of the Erdtree is praised as one of the best expansions in the industry, offering a robust and complete experience that could stand as a standalone game. Despite some drawbacks like the incomplete story and absence of new trophies, the DLC enhances the journey with new content and epic moments.

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100

Meristation

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 as one of the best expansions in recent years, showcasing experimentation and excellent level design, with challenging difficulty spikes and a sense of mystery and discovery.

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