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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: MonsterCritic 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

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree has received mostly positive reviews for its rich lore and intricate storytelling, with new characters like Miquella adding depth. Critics praise its atmospheric design and the sense of discovery it evokes. However, some find the narrative confusing and the ending underwhelming, leading to a mixed reception. Overall, it’s seen as a strong expansion that enhances the Elden Ring experience, despite some clarity issues.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

84%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

13%

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 has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who appreciate its rich lore and intricate narrative woven into the expansive world. Reviewers like Atomix and But Why Tho? highlight the cryptic and minimalistic storytelling that encourages player interpretation, while Checkpoint Gaming praises the atmospheric storytelling and world design. Many critics, including GameMAG and Meristation, note the compelling narrative surrounding new characters like Miquella, which adds depth to the overarching lore and ties into the themes of overcoming adversity. The expansion has been recognized for its ability to evoke a sense of discovery and intrigue, with critics such as Impulsegamer and TechRadar Gaming emphasizing the stakes involved in the unfolding narrative. However, not all opinions are as favorable. Some critics express concerns about the story's complexity and lack of clarity. Dot Esports and Noisy Pixel point out that the narrative can be confusing, often raising more questions than it answers, which may leave players feeling lost without additional lore resources. MMORPG.com and TheSixthAxis criticize the ending as underwhelming, suggesting that it fails to provide satisfactory closure or integration with the main game. Additionally, PCGamesN mentions jarring moments that detract from the overall storytelling experience, indicating that while the lore is rich, the delivery can sometimes be lacking. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Shadow of the Erdtree successfully expands the narrative of Elden Ring, offering a compelling exploration of its themes and characters. While some reviewers highlight issues with clarity and narrative structure, the majority, including PC Gamer and Wccftech, commend its masterful integration of storytelling with environmental design and character development. The expansion is seen as a worthy addition to the Elden Ring universe, enhancing the player's experience through its intricate lore and engaging quests, despite some lingering questions and a few narrative shortcomings.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree impresses critics with its diverse gameplay, new companions, and complex environments that enhance combat and exploration. The expansion introduces challenging new enemies and character progression, making it a compelling addition to the franchise. However, some critics note the absence of a standout boss and concerns over new mechanics' integration, as well as high difficulty levels that may alienate newcomers. Overall, it's a praised expansion that enriches the Elden Ring experience despite minor critiques.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

97%

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 has garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, who praise its rich and diverse mechanics that build upon the foundation of the original game. Reviewers like Atomix highlight the introduction of new elements such as a group of warriors to accompany players, enhancing both combat and exploration. The expansion's new region, the Shadow Realm, is noted for its complex and vertical exploration, as mentioned by Slant Magazine, which describes the environments as dense and intricate. Critics such as Dot Esports and GamersRD emphasize the increased challenge presented by new enemy types and multi-phase bosses, providing a rewarding experience for players seeking difficulty. The introduction of new weapons, spells, and character progression systems, as noted by Checkpoint Gaming and Metro GameCentral, further enriches the gameplay, making it a compelling addition to the Elden Ring universe. While the majority of reviews are positive, some critics point out certain drawbacks that may affect the overall experience. For instance, Game Revolution mentions a lack of a super challenging boss equivalent to Malenia, which could disappoint players seeking that level of intensity. Additionally, TheSixthAxis raises concerns about the implementation of new mechanics like Scadutree Fragments and Revered Spirit Ashes, suggesting they may not seamlessly fit within the existing gameplay framework. Furthermore, Gamepressure notes that the difficulty level may be too high for some players, potentially alienating those who are less experienced with the franchise's notoriously challenging gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree successfully delivers an engaging and challenging gameplay experience that builds upon its predecessor while introducing fresh elements. The expansion is praised for its intricate level design, rewarding exploration, and diverse combat mechanics, as highlighted by critics like GAMINGbible and TechRadar Gaming. Despite some minor criticisms regarding balance and implementation, the majority of reviewers agree that the expansion is a worthy addition to the Elden Ring series, providing players with ample content and challenges to explore.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree dazzles with its stunning graphics and intricate world-building, praised for maintaining the original's aesthetic while introducing new, vibrant environments. Critics highlight its "hauntingly beautiful" landscapes and clever level design that rewards exploration. However, some technical issues, like rendering problems in dense areas and rough textures up close, slightly mar the experience. Despite these flaws, the game is widely regarded as a visual masterpiece that enhances its predecessor's legacy.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

97%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, who praise its stunning aesthetic and intricate world-building. Many reviewers, such as Atomix and MMORPG.com, highlight the game’s ability to maintain the unique and familiar aesthetic of the original Elden Ring while introducing new biomes and environments that enhance the visual experience. The game is described as "hauntingly beautiful" by Checkpoint Gaming and Dot Esports, emphasizing the diverse and vibrant landscapes that invite exploration. Critics like MeuPlayStation and PC Gamer commend the impressive level design and artistic direction, noting that the environments are not only visually striking but also cleverly crafted to reward players for their curiosity. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some critics have pointed out certain technical shortcomings that detract from the overall experience. For instance, Vandal and TechRadar Gaming mention performance issues, particularly in dense locations where rendering problems can occur, which may hinder immersion. XboxEra also notes that while the game features beautiful vistas and animations, the texture work can be rough when viewed up close. These technical glitches, although not universally reported, indicate that the visual experience may not be flawless across all platforms, which could affect some players' enjoyment. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree excels in its graphics and visual design, with the majority praising its artistic brilliance and captivating environments. Reviewers like Meristation and GamingBolt emphasize the impressive audiovisual presentation and the attention to detail that enhances the gameplay experience. While some technical issues were noted, they do not overshadow the general sentiment that the game is a visual masterpiece, with many critics affirming that it successfully builds upon the legacy of its predecessor, offering players a rich and immersive world to explore.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics rave about the sound design and music in Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree, praising its atmospheric depth and emotional impact. With haunting scores for each area and an epic orchestral soundtrack, the audio experience enhances gameplay immersion, especially during boss fights. While overall feedback is overwhelmingly positive, some minor critiques point to a lack of detailed comparison with past titles and potential audio inconsistencies. Nevertheless, the expansion solidifies its place as a standout achievement in gaming sound design.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

100%

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 have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with many praising the atmospheric depth and emotional resonance of the audio experience. Atomix highlighted the expansion's ability to enhance the atmospheric sound design of the original Elden Ring, noting the effective use of classic choirs during battles. Checkpoint Gaming emphasized the distinct scores that accompany each area, filled with haunting melodies that build tension, while Dot Esports lauded the epic orchestral soundtrack, particularly during boss encounters, calling it one of the best in FromSoftware's history. Critics like GamersRD and Impulsegamer also noted the dynamic nature of the soundtrack, with music that adapts to the intensity of boss battles, enhancing the overall immersion and emotional impact of the gameplay. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some critiques can be discerned, albeit minor in nature. While most reviewers focused on the strengths of the sound design, a few did not delve deeply into specific shortcomings, leading to a lack of diverse perspectives on potential areas for improvement. For instance, while the sound design was praised for its immersive qualities, there was little mention of how it might compare to previous FromSoftware titles or whether it innovates beyond established norms. Additionally, some critics, such as PC Gamer, noted the dynamic nature of the sound design but did not elaborate on how this dynamic quality could potentially lead to inconsistencies in audio experience during gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree are exceptional and significantly enhance the gaming experience. The majority of reviewers, including MeuPlayStation and XboxEra, emphasized the breathtaking quality of the soundtrack and its ability to complement the epic feel of the game. The immersive audio experience, characterized by dynamic soundscapes and emotionally charged music, has left a strong impression on players, confirming that the expansion successfully builds upon the already rich auditory foundation laid by its predecessor. As a result, Shadow of the Erdtree stands out as a remarkable achievement in sound design and music within the gaming landscape.

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 generally performs well on PS5 and Xbox Series X, with minor bugs and some frame rate issues. The PC version struggles significantly with performance drops and stability concerns. Critics see promise across platforms but emphasize the need for patches to address various technical shortcomings. Overall, the game remains enjoyable despite these challenges.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

14%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

86%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

In analyzing the technical performance of Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree, it is evident that the PS5 platform generally offers a stable experience, with several critics noting minor issues but overall satisfactory performance. Dot Esports highlighted that while there are minor bugs, such as bosses stopping mid-fight and collision issues, these are not game-breaking. GamersRD echoed this sentiment, stating that the performance mirrors that of the base game from 2022 without specific issues. Impulsegamer also reported stable performance, mentioning only minor story progression issues and the possibility of future patches. The Xbox Series X performance is similarly praised, with TheXboxHub reporting no slowdown or stuttering even with high particle effects, while XboxEra noted stability with no major bugs or online disconnects. On PC, Gamepressure reported a stable experience at high graphics settings, which is a positive note amidst mixed reviews. However, the negatives for each platform reveal a more complex picture. On the PS5, Meristation pointed out frame rate issues that occur more frequently than in the base game, while Metro GameCentral mentioned glitches with ground textures and unclear instructions that could confuse players. The PC experience appears more troubled, with GamingBolt encountering performance issues at 4K resolution, forcing a resolution downgrade for stability. GINX TV noted frame rate drops during boss fights, and Vandal reported performance issues and popping, indicating significant technical shortcomings. Wccftech also pointed out frame rate drops and occasional freezes, suggesting that the PC version has notable room for improvement. For Xbox Series X, TechRadar Gaming reported performance dips with frame rates dropping to 30-40fps in dense areas, which could detract from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree shows promise across all platforms, it is marred by various technical issues that need addressing. The PS5 version is generally stable but has minor bugs and frame rate issues, while the Xbox Series X has a mixed performance with some reports of visual oddities and framerate struggles. The PC version, however, seems to face the most significant challenges, with multiple critics citing performance drops and the need for optimization. Despite these concerns, the game remains playable and enjoyable, with many reviewers hopeful for future patches to enhance the experience further.

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, new challenges, and deep gameplay encouraging multiple playthroughs. Critics highlight engaging exploration, diverse customization, and expansive world design. However, some concerns arise over a lack of new trophies and underwhelming rewards post-boss battles, which could impact replay motivation. Overall, it's a highly recommended expansion that enhances the original game, appealing to both newcomers and veterans.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

21%

Negative Reviews (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 overwhelmingly positive, with numerous critics highlighting the expansion's rich content and engaging gameplay. Reviewers like Atomix and GamersRD emphasize the multitude of new challenges, secrets, and customization options that invite players to explore different playstyles. The vertical exploration and complex map design mentioned by Atomix, alongside the numerous optional bosses and puzzles noted by But Why Tho?, contribute to a sense of depth that encourages multiple playthroughs. Moreover, the addition of new weapons, armor, and character progression systems, as pointed out by Checkpoint Gaming and Impulsegamer, enhances the overall experience and motivates players to dive back into the game to fully explore its offerings. Despite the strong praise, some critics did voice concerns regarding certain aspects that could potentially diminish the replay value. MeuPlayStation pointed out the absence of new trophies, which might impact players' motivation to explore and discover missed content. Additionally, GINX TV mentioned that exploration and endgame content felt less rewarding after defeating mainline bosses, suggesting that some areas might lack the engaging depth that players expect. This sentiment is echoed by PC Invasion, which noted that while the DLC encourages replayability, some rewards may feel underwhelming for players who have maxed out their builds and weapons. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree" offers a substantial and rewarding expansion that significantly enhances the original game. The majority of reviews reflect a strong belief in the replay value, with many critics, such as Metro GameCentral and XboxEra, highlighting the vast amount of content, new challenges, and the intricate design of the world that invites exploration. While there are some criticisms regarding certain limitations, they do not overshadow the general enthusiasm for the expansion, making it a highly recommended experience for both new and returning players.

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 overall sentiment regarding "Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree" is overwhelmingly positive, with numerous critics praising its expansion of the original game's core elements. Reviewers such as Atomix and But Why Tho? highlight the captivating story, engaging gameplay, and stunning visuals, with But Why Tho? even awarding it a perfect score of 10/10. Critics like Checkpoint Gaming and Dot Esports commend the atmospheric storytelling and challenging combat, emphasizing that the expansion enriches the Elden Ring experience. The vertical exploration in the Shadow Realm, noted by Atomix, is particularly celebrated for its unique and rewarding experience. Many reviews, including those from Impulsegamer and MeuPlayStation, describe the DLC as a must-play, with Impulsegamer pointing out that it is well worth the two-year wait, catering to both hardcore fans and newcomers alike. Despite the largely favorable reviews, some critics have pointed out a few drawbacks. Metro GameCentral notes that while the DLC offers engrossing content, it lacks significant gameplay innovations and has an obscure access point. PlayStation Country expresses a desire for more focused content and tighter design, mentioning issues with dungeon count and pacing. Additionally, some reviews, like those from GINX TV and TheSixthAxis, acknowledge minor flaws in narrative coherence and gameplay mechanics, suggesting that while the expansion is impressive, it is not without its imperfections. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree" is a remarkable expansion that successfully builds upon the foundation laid by the original game. The majority of reviews reflect a strong appreciation for its quality and depth, with many considering it one of the best expansions in recent years. Critics like PC Gamer and XboxEra emphasize its essential nature for fans, showcasing FromSoftware's mastery in world-building and gameplay design. While some minor criticisms exist, they do little to detract from the overall acclaim, solidifying the expansion's place as a significant addition to the Elden Ring universe.

TL;DR

"Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree" receives rave reviews for its captivating story, engaging gameplay, and stunning visuals, even earning a perfect 10/10 from But Why Tho?. Critics laud its atmospheric storytelling and challenging combat, with many calling it a must-play for both veterans and newcomers. While some note minor flaws like lack of innovation and pacing issues, the overall sentiment is that the expansion is a remarkable addition, solidifying its status as one of the best in recent years and showcasing FromSoftware's mastery in world-building.

MONSTER

Reviews

201 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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