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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

PlatformPC, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, 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

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TL;DR

"Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree" is praised for its rich lore, atmospheric storytelling, and new characters like Miquella. Critics appreciate its cryptic narrative style and deeper themes, but some find it overly complex and lacking closure. Overall, it enhances the Elden Ring experience, despite accessibility issues, earning a positive reception.

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 received a largely positive reception from critics, who commend its rich lore and intricate world design. Reviewers like Checkpoint Gaming highlight the atmospheric storytelling and the depth added to the narrative through the introduction of new characters, particularly Miquella the Kind, as noted by Impulsegamer and GameMAG. Critics such as Atomix and But Why Tho? appreciate the continuation of the cryptic and minimalistic storytelling style that encourages player interpretation, while Gamepressure and TechRadar Gaming emphasize the expansion of the game's lore and the exploration of darker themes, such as betrayal and lost morality. The narrative's ability to weave new insights into the existing universe of Elden Ring is a common point of praise, suggesting that the DLC enhances the overall experience of the base game. However, not all feedback is entirely positive. Some critics express concerns about the story's complexity and its tendency to raise more questions than it answers. Dot Esports and Noisy Pixel point out that the narrative can be confusing, requiring external lore videos for full context, while PCGamesN criticizes the storytelling for being obtuse and jarring at times. Additionally, MMORPG.com and TheSixthAxis mention that the ending may feel underwhelming, lacking a satisfying conclusion to the narrative threads introduced in the expansion. This sentiment is echoed by several reviewers who feel that while the story is engaging, it sometimes falls short of providing closure or a sense of novelty after the extensive gameplay of the base game. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree" offers a compelling narrative that expands on the lore and themes of the original game, despite some criticisms regarding its complexity and lack of resolution. The majority of reviewers, including those from GamersRD and Wccftech, appreciate the depth and richness of the story, suggesting that it successfully captures the enigmatic essence of Elden Ring while introducing new elements that enhance the player's experience. While there are valid critiques regarding the narrative's accessibility and clarity, the overall sentiment leans towards a positive reception, affirming the expansion's contribution to the Elden Ring universe.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree has earned rave reviews for its engaging mechanics, vertical exploration, and over 25 hours of challenging gameplay. Critics praised new features like Scadutree Fragments and diverse weaponry, enhancing the overall experience. However, some concerns were raised about the difficulty and connection of new mechanics, with a few reviewers noting a lack of iconic boss encounters. Despite these critiques, the expansion is hailed as a worthy addition to the Elden Ring universe, delivering a compelling and immersive experience.

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 received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, highlighting its engaging mechanics and enriching new features. Reviewers such as Atomix and Dot Esports praised the expansion for its complex and vertical exploration, which is complemented by challenging optional content and formidable boss battles. The introduction of new gameplay elements, such as Scadutree Fragments and a variety of weapons and spells, has been noted by several critics, including Metro GameCentral and Meristation, as a significant enhancement to the overall experience. Many reviewers, like GamersRD and Impulsegamer, emphasized the expansion's ability to offer over 25 hours of exploration filled with secrets and tough encounters, reinforcing the notion that the gameplay remains both rewarding and diverse. However, some critics did express concerns regarding the difficulty level and the implementation of new mechanics. For instance, TheSixthAxis noted that while the new Scadutree Fragments and Revered Spirit Ashes introduced intriguing concepts, they felt somewhat disconnected from the overall game design. Additionally, Game Revolution mentioned a lack of a super challenging boss equivalent to Malenia, suggesting that while the expansion is tough, it may not reach the heights of its predecessor in terms of iconic encounters. Some players may find the increased difficulty overwhelming, as highlighted by Gamepressure, which stated that the challenge might be too high for certain players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree successfully builds upon the foundation laid by the base game, offering a rich and immersive gameplay experience. Reviewers like MMORPG.com and PC Gamer celebrated the innovative combat and new progression systems, while others, such as TechRadar Gaming and XboxEra, praised the intricate level design and diverse combat mechanics. Despite some critiques regarding difficulty and the integration of new features, the majority opinion suggests that the expansion delivers a compelling and satisfying gameplay experience, solidifying its status as a worthy addition to the Elden Ring universe.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Critics are raving about Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree for its breathtaking visuals and intricate world design, showcasing a stunning blend of new and familiar elements. While some technical performance issues exist, they don't overshadow the game's impressive aesthetics and immersive environments, solidifying its status as a standout in modern gaming.

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 consensus among critics regarding the graphics and visual design of Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree is overwhelmingly positive. Many reviewers praised the expansion for its stunning visuals, intricate world design, and artistic direction. For instance, Atomix highlighted the game's unique aesthetic, which combines familiar elements from Elden Ring with new biomes and environments that enhance the visual experience. Similarly, But Why Tho? and Checkpoint Gaming noted the diverse environments and detailed level design that contribute to an immersive experience. The haunting beauty of the landscapes was a common theme, with Dot Esports and MMORPG.com emphasizing the intricate details and vibrant colors that make exploration rewarding. Critics like MeuPlayStation and Hooked Gamers also appreciated the impressive boss battles and the overall audiovisual presentation, which adds depth to the gameplay. However, some critiques pointed out technical performance issues that detracted from the otherwise stellar visuals. Vandal mentioned rendering problems that could disrupt immersion, while TechRadar Gaming noted performance issues, particularly in dense locations on both console and PC. XboxEra echoed this sentiment, highlighting rough texture work when viewed up close, which can break the visual immersion that the game strives to achieve. These technical shortcomings, while not universally experienced, were significant enough to warrant mention from multiple critics. Overall, the critics agree that Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree offers a visually stunning experience that builds upon the foundation of its predecessor. The artistic zones and environmental design have been described as some of the best in the modern gaming landscape, with many reviewers, including GAMINGbible and PlayStation Country, praising the breathtaking vistas and creative level design. While there are some noted technical issues, the majority of critics feel that the game's visual design is exceptional, making it a highlight of the expansion and a worthy continuation of the Elden Ring legacy.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

TLDR: Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree’s sound design and music receive rave reviews for their atmospheric depth and emotional impact, featuring a standout orchestral soundtrack that enhances boss battles and immerses players in the game’s dark fantasy world. Critics praise the dynamic scores and evocative voice acting, while noting minor critiques about originality. Overall, the audio elements are seen as vital to the expansion’s success, elevating the gameplay experience and solidifying its place as a key highlight.

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 a largely positive reception from critics, who praise the expansion for its atmospheric depth and emotional resonance. Reviewers such as Atomix and Dot Esports highlight the impressive orchestral soundtrack, which enhances the intensity of boss encounters and is considered one of the best in FromSoftware's history. The incorporation of distinct scores for different areas, as noted by Checkpoint Gaming, adds to the immersive experience, creating a haunting atmosphere that builds tension and anticipation. Furthermore, the voice acting has been commended for adding personality to new characters, enhancing the overall audio experience, as mentioned by Atomix. Critics like GamersRD and Impulsegamer emphasize the dynamic nature of the music, particularly during boss battles, where the soundtrack evolves to match the action, creating a compelling audio-visual synergy. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, there are few criticisms worth noting. While the majority of reviewers praised the sound design, some did not provide specific critiques, which could suggest a lack of depth in certain areas or a missed opportunity for further exploration of the soundscapes. However, the absence of significant negative comments indicates that the sound design and music effectively meet or exceed expectations. Critics such as Gamepressure and PC Gamer pointed out that while the music is impactful and immersive, there may be moments where it leans heavily into familiar themes, potentially lacking in originality for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree excels in its sound design and music, significantly enhancing the gameplay experience. The expansion's ability to evoke emotions and complement the game's dark fantasy themes has resonated well with players, as seen in the reviews from XboxEra and Vandal, who commend the gorgeous soundtrack and its fitting orchestral arrangements. With the majority of critics agreeing on the high quality of the audio elements, it is clear that the sound design and music play a crucial role in elevating the overall experience of this expansion, solidifying its place among the standout features of the game.

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 offers a mixed technical performance across PS5, PC, and Xbox Series X. PS5 and Xbox Series X users enjoy a generally stable experience with minor bugs, while the PC version struggles with significant issues, especially at 4K and during boss fights. Frame rate drops and glitches mar the experience, but critics remain hopeful for future patches. Overall, the game shows promise but needs further optimization to fully meet player expectations.

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, PC, and Xbox Series X platforms each have their own strengths. On PS5, critics like GamersRD noted that the performance remains consistent with the base game, suggesting a stable experience. Dot Esports and Impulsegamer acknowledged minor bugs, such as bosses stopping mid-fight and premature story progression, but overall described the performance as stable with potential for future patches. On the PC front, Gamepressure reported a stable experience even at high graphics settings, indicating that the game can run smoothly under optimal conditions. Similarly, XboxEra highlighted a stable experience on the Xbox Series X, with no major bugs or online disconnects reported, and TheXboxHub noted that high particle effects did not cause any slowdown or stuttering. However, the technical performance is not without its drawbacks. On PS5, Meristation mentioned frame rate issues that were more pronounced than in the base game, while Metro GameCentral pointed out glitches with ground textures and unclear instructions that could confuse players. The PC version faced more significant challenges, with GamingBolt and GINX TV reporting performance issues at 4K resolution and during boss fights, respectively. Vandal and Wccftech echoed these concerns, noting frame rate drops and occasional freezes that hindered gameplay. On Xbox Series X, TechRadar Gaming highlighted performance dips in dense areas, where frame rates dropped to 30-40fps, although they deemed the experience overall playable. The overall consensus among critics suggests a mixed bag of technical performance across platforms. While PS5 and Xbox Series X users generally reported stable experiences with minor issues, the PC version faced more substantial performance challenges, particularly at higher resolutions and during intense gameplay moments. Critics like Impulsegamer and TechRadar Gaming reflected a hope for improvements through future patches, indicating that while the game is enjoyable, there is still room for optimization. Ultimately, Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree showcases a solid foundation across platforms, but the varying degrees of technical performance highlight the need for ongoing refinement to meet player expectations.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

"Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree" receives high praise for its replay value, with critics lauding its rich new challenges, optional bosses, and diverse gameplay options through new weapons and spells. The complex map design enhances exploration, keeping the experience fresh. However, some criticize the lack of new trophies and endgame content depth, which may dampen engagement for maxed-out characters. Overall, the expansion is celebrated as a substantial addition, offering compelling reasons for both veterans and newcomers to dive back in.

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, as highlighted by the majority of critics. Many reviewers, such as Atomix and But Why Tho?, emphasize the expansion's wealth of new challenges, optional bosses, and exploration opportunities that significantly enhance replayability. Critics like Impulsegamer and Metro GameCentral noted the introduction of new weapons, spells, and character progression systems, which not only diversify gameplay but also encourage players to experiment with different builds. The complex map design and vertical exploration mentioned by Atomix further contribute to the sense of discovery, making the experience feel fresh and engaging for returning players. However, there are some criticisms that temper the otherwise glowing reviews. MeuPlayStation pointed out the lack of new trophies, which could detract from the exploration experience by failing to provide guidance on missed content. Additionally, GINX TV expressed concerns about the endgame content feeling less rewarding after defeating mainline bosses, suggesting that some areas may lack depth or engagement once players reach a certain point. Critics like PC Invasion also noted that while the DLC encourages replayability, some rewards may feel underwhelming for players who have maxed out their characters, potentially limiting the incentive for further exploration. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that "Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree" offers a robust replay value, with many praising its extensive content and challenging gameplay. Reviewers such as Game Revolution and XboxEra highlighted the significant amount of additional hours players can expect, reinforcing the idea that this expansion is a worthy addition to the original game. While some minor concerns exist regarding the depth of certain areas and the absence of new achievements, the overall reception indicates that players will find ample reasons to return to the world of Elden Ring, making it a compelling experience for both veterans and newcomers alike.

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 among critics, who commend its ability to expand upon the successful elements of the original game. Reviewers like Atomix and But Why Tho? highlight the captivating story, engaging gameplay, and stunning visuals, with the latter awarding the expansion a perfect score of 10/10. Many critics, including Checkpoint Gaming and Dot Esports, emphasize the atmospheric storytelling and challenging combat, with the expansion being described as a "must-play" and a strong contender for game of the year. The immersive sound design and high replay value are also frequently mentioned, with GameMAG noting its appeal even to those who may not have enjoyed the base game. The vertical exploration in the Shadow Realm is particularly praised for its uniqueness and rewarding nature, further enhancing the overall experience. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some critics have pointed out notable drawbacks. Metro GameCentral mentions the lack of major gameplay innovations and the obscure access to the DLC, while PlayStation Country expresses a desire for more focused content and tighter design, citing issues with dungeon count and pacing. MeuPlayStation also notes an incomplete story and the absence of new trophies as drawbacks. Additionally, while many reviewers acknowledge the high difficulty level as a hallmark of the FromSoftware experience, some, like XboxEra, point out a significant difficulty spike in the final boss encounter, which could be off-putting for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree" is an exceptional expansion that successfully builds upon the original game, offering a rich and immersive experience that is largely fulfilling for both fans and newcomers. The majority of reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the expansion's quality content, level design, and the sense of discovery it fosters, with many, such as GINX TV and PC Gamer, labeling it as a "masterpiece" and "essential" for fans of the genre. While there are some criticisms regarding pacing and narrative coherence, the positive aspects far outweigh the negatives, solidifying the expansion's status as one of the best in recent years.

TL;DR

TL;DR: "Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree" receives rave reviews for its captivating story, engaging gameplay, and stunning visuals, with many calling it a "must-play" and a top contender for game of the year. Critics praise its immersive sound design and rewarding vertical exploration, though some note a lack of major innovations and pacing issues. Despite minor drawbacks, the expansion is considered an exceptional addition to the franchise, solidifying its status as one of the best in recent years.

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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