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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

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

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

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree has received mostly positive reviews for its rich lore and deep narrative, praised for its engaging storytelling and atmospheric world. Critics highlight new characters and thematic explorations of faith and morality, enhancing player immersion. However, some find the story complex and confusing, with an underwhelming ending and moments that detract from the overall experience. Despite these critiques, the expansion is seen as a compelling continuation of the Elden Ring saga, appealing to fans and newcomers alike.

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 among critics, with many praising its rich lore and narrative depth. Critics like Atomix and GameMAG highlight the cryptic storytelling that encourages player interpretation and engagement with the world. The expansion introduces new characters, such as Miquella the Kind, and expands upon existing lore, as noted by Impulsegamer and TechRadar Gaming. The atmospheric storytelling and intricate world design, emphasized by Checkpoint Gaming, contribute to a captivating narrative experience that invites exploration and discovery. Additionally, the thematic exploration of faith and morality, as pointed out by The New York Times and GAMINGbible, adds layers to the overall narrative, making it resonate with players seeking a deeper understanding of the game's universe. However, not all reviews are uniformly positive. Some critics express concerns regarding the story's complexity and lack of clarity. Dot Esports describes the narrative as confusing, suggesting that players may need to rely on external lore videos for context. Others, like MMORPG.com and TheSixthAxis, point out that the ending feels underwhelming and fails to provide satisfying resolutions to the story arcs introduced. Critics such as PCGamesN also note jarring moments in the storytelling that detract from the overall experience. This sentiment is echoed by Noisy Pixel, who argues that the narrative takes a backseat to combat and exploration, potentially alienating players who prioritize story engagement. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a favorable view of Shadow of the Erdtree's story, with many appreciating its intricate lore and character development. While some critiques highlight its complexity and occasional lack of clarity, the majority of reviewers, including Meristation and Wccftech, recognize the expansion's ability to enrich the Elden Ring universe. The narrative's emphasis on mystery and exploration, coupled with its thematic depth, positions it as a worthy continuation of the Elden Ring experience, appealing to both newcomers and long-time fans of the franchise.

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 enhancements, introducing new warriors, vertical exploration, and a wealth of content that delivers over 25 hours of challenging combat and intricate dungeons. While praised for its depth and diversity, some new mechanics face criticism for poor integration and the heightened difficulty may alienate casual players. Overall, it’s a compelling expansion that successfully builds on the original, offering a rewarding mix of familiar and fresh gameplay elements.

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 a largely positive reception from critics, who highlight the expansion's ability to build upon the already rich mechanics of the original game. Reviewers from Atomix and Dot Esports commend the introduction of new elements such as a group of warriors to accompany players, alongside a more complex and vertical exploration experience. The expansion is praised for its challenging combat, with new weapons, spells, and character progression systems that enhance gameplay diversity, as noted by Checkpoint Gaming and Meristation. Critics like Impulsegamer and Metro GameCentral emphasize the significant amount of content available, including over 25 hours of exploration filled with formidable enemies and intricate dungeons that reward players for their efforts. However, some critics have pointed out potential drawbacks in the gameplay experience. For instance, while the increased difficulty is generally seen as a positive aspect that enhances the challenge for seasoned players, it has also been noted that the level of challenge may be too high for some, as indicated by GameMAG and Gamepressure. Additionally, TheSixthAxis raises concerns about the implementation of new mechanics like Scadutree Fragments and Revered Spirit Ashes, suggesting that they may not fit seamlessly into the overall design of the game. This sentiment is echoed by a few other critics who feel that while the expansion introduces innovative elements, they might not be as well-integrated as intended. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree successfully delivers a compelling gameplay experience that enhances the original's formula. Most reviewers, including those from GamersRD and PC Gamer, appreciate the blend of familiar and fresh elements, with the expansion providing a rewarding challenge that encourages exploration and strategic gameplay. The majority of critics agree that the new content, including challenging bosses and diverse combat mechanics, contributes positively to the overall experience, making it a worthy addition to the Elden Ring universe.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree has been lauded for its stunning graphics and cohesive aesthetic, impressing critics with new biomes and intricate level designs that invite exploration. Reviewers highlighted the haunting beauty of the Shadow Realm and captivating boss battle visuals. However, some technical issues, like rendering problems and rough textures, were noted, slightly marred the experience. Overall, the expansion is celebrated as a visual masterpiece, solidifying FromSoftware's reputation for rich, immersive worlds, despite a few execution flaws.

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 overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers, including Atomix and MMORPG.com, praised the game for maintaining the unique aesthetic established in Elden Ring while introducing new biomes and environments that enhance the visual experience. Critics highlighted the game's intricate level design, with diverse landscapes and detailed character models that create a captivating atmosphere. Notably, the haunting beauty of the Shadow Realm was frequently mentioned, with reviewers like Dot Esports and Checkpoint Gaming emphasizing the game's vibrant colors and intricate world design that rewards exploration. The expansion's boss battles were also noted for their impressive visual presentation, as highlighted by Meristation and MeuPlayStation, further contributing to the game's overall aesthetic appeal. Despite the praise, some critics pointed out technical performance issues that detracted from the visual experience. Vandal and TechRadar Gaming noted rendering problems and performance dips, particularly in densely populated areas, which can disrupt immersion. Additionally, XboxEra mentioned that while the game features beautiful vistas and impressive animations, texture work can be rough when viewed up close. These technical shortcomings suggest that while the artistic direction is strong, the execution may not always meet the high standards set by the visuals themselves. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree excels in its graphics and visual design, with a majority praising its artistic brilliance and immersive environments. Reviewers like GamersRD and PlayStation Country highlighted the expansion's ability to create a grim yet visually striking world that continues the legacy of its predecessor. While some technical issues were noted, they did not significantly overshadow the game's overall aesthetic achievements. The expansion is widely regarded as a visual masterpiece, showcasing FromSoftware's commitment to delivering a richly detailed and atmospheric gaming experience.

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, dynamic orchestral scores, and haunting melodies that enhance immersion and emotional impact. While some minor concerns exist regarding its uniqueness compared to Bloodborne, they are largely overshadowed by the overall acclaim. The expansion's audio experience is a standout feature, solidifying its status among FromSoftware's best.

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 overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, who praise its atmospheric depth and emotional resonance. Reviewers like Atomix and Dot Esports highlight the expansion's ability to enhance the immersive experience through its atmospheric soundscapes and epic orchestral soundtracks. The use of distinct scores, as noted by Checkpoint Gaming, creates a haunting ambiance that effectively builds tension and anticipation throughout various areas. Additionally, GamersRD emphasizes the dynamic nature of the soundtrack during boss battles, which shifts to reflect the intensity of the encounters, further enriching the gameplay experience. The incorporation of voice acting, as mentioned by Atomix, adds personality to new characters, enhancing the overall audio experience. While the majority of reviews are positive, there are some areas where critics have expressed minor concerns. However, specific criticisms were not as prominently featured in the reviews, suggesting that any negatives are either minimal or overshadowed by the overall quality of the sound design and music. Some critics, such as GamingBolt, noted that while the music evokes feelings reminiscent of Bloodborne, it may not fully capture the unique essence of Elden Ring, indicating a potential area for improvement in distinguishing its musical identity. Nevertheless, these concerns seem to be overshadowed by the general acclaim for the audio experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music in Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree significantly enhance the game, contributing to an immersive and emotionally engaging experience. The combination of dynamic soundscapes, haunting melodies, and impactful orchestral scores has been widely celebrated, with critics like PC Gamer and Vandal praising the audio-visual synergy that elevates the gameplay. The expansion's soundtrack, described as both epic and melancholic, effectively complements the dark fantasy theme, making it one of the standout features of the game. In summary, Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree is recognized for its exceptional audio experience, solidifying its place in the pantheon of FromSoftware's acclaimed titles.

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 receives mixed reviews for technical performance across platforms. The PS5 and Xbox Series X deliver stable experiences, but minor glitches and frame rate issues persist. In contrast, the PC version struggles significantly with performance drops, especially at 4K resolution and during intense gameplay. Overall, while the game shows promise, it needs optimization, particularly on PC.

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.

The technical performance of Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree across various gaming platforms has garnered a mix of positive feedback from critics. On the PlayStation 5, several reviewers noted that the game runs relatively stable, with GamersRD stating it performed similarly to the base game from 2022, indicating a solid foundation. Impulsegamer also echoed this sentiment, highlighting an overall stable performance despite minor issues. On the PC front, Gamepressure reported a stable experience with high graphics settings, free of crashes, while TheXboxHub praised the Xbox Series X for maintaining performance without slowdown, even during intense moments with high particle effects. XboxEra also noted stability, emphasizing the absence of major bugs or online disconnects. However, the reviews also pointed out several technical issues across platforms. On PS5, Dot Esports mentioned minor bugs like bosses stopping mid-fight and collision issues, while Meristation noted frame rate problems that were more pronounced than in the original game. Metro GameCentral highlighted glitches with ground textures and potential confusion regarding the expansion's initiation. For PC, the situation appeared more problematic, with critics like GamingBolt and GINX TV reporting performance issues, particularly at 4K resolution and during boss fights, leading to frame rate drops. Vandal and Wccftech also indicated technical shortcomings, including performance dips and occasional freezes, suggesting that the PC version requires further optimization. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a mixed bag of technical performance for Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree. While the PS5 and Xbox Series X versions received praise for their stability, minor issues were still present, as noted by Impulsegamer and TechRadar Gaming. In contrast, the PC version faced more significant challenges, with multiple reviewers pointing out performance issues that detracted from the experience. This disparity suggests that while the game has a solid foundation, there is room for improvement, particularly on the PC platform. The varying experiences highlight the importance of optimization across different systems, as echoed by critics like GAMINGbible and Wccftech.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Critics rave about "Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree," praising its rich content, diverse gameplay, and strong replay value. With new challenges, extensive customization, and a wealth of optional bosses and puzzles, it invites exploration and experimentation. However, some note issues like the lack of new trophies and underwhelming rewards for maxed-out players that could hinder replay appeal. Overall, it’s seen as a must-play expansion that promises significant value and fresh experiences for fans.

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 among critics. Many reviewers highlight the expansion’s rich content and diverse gameplay elements as key factors that enhance replayability. For instance, Atomix praises the new challenges and customization options that encourage players to explore various playstyles. Similarly, But Why Tho? notes the abundance of optional bosses and puzzles, which add layers of exploration and engagement. Critics like GamersRD and Impulsegamer emphasize the additional hours of gameplay and the variety of new weapons, armor, and spells available, all of which contribute to a compelling incentive for players to return to the game and experiment with different builds. However, some critics do voice concerns that could impact the overall replay experience. MeuPlayStation mentions the absence of new trophies, which may detract from the exploration aspect by not providing clear guidance on missed content. GINX TV points out that certain areas may feel less rewarding after defeating mainline bosses, suggesting that the world does not evolve significantly post-completion, which might lead to a sense of stagnation for some players. Additionally, PC Invasion notes that while the DLC encourages replayability, certain rewards may feel underwhelming for players who have maxed out their weapons and builds, potentially diminishing the thrill of exploration. Despite these criticisms, the consensus among critics is that "Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree" offers significant replay value, making it a worthwhile expansion for fans of the franchise. Reviewers like Metro GameCentral and Game Revolution emphasize the sheer volume of content and the variety of new challenges, which can extend playtime considerably. The expansion's intricate map design and the introduction of new gameplay mechanics have been well-received, with many critics agreeing that it provides a fresh and engaging experience. Overall, the majority view the replay value as very good, indicating that players are likely to find ample reasons to revisit the game and explore its depths further.

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 surrounding "Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree" is overwhelmingly positive, with numerous critics praising its rich content and engaging gameplay. Reviewers like Atomix and Checkpoint Gaming highlight the expansion's ability to expand on the successful elements of the original game, with captivating storytelling, atmospheric design, and challenging combat. The vertical exploration in the Shadow Realm, as noted by Atomix, adds a unique dimension to the experience, while critics like Impulsegamer and MeuPlayStation emphasize its high replay value and the depth it brings to the Elden Ring universe. Many reviewers, including But Why Tho? and Dot Esports, awarded perfect scores, underscoring the expansion's quality and its potential as a game of the year contender. Despite the praise, some critics have pointed out certain drawbacks. Metro GameCentral noted that while the expansion is engrossing, it lacks major gameplay innovations and has variable difficulty levels that may frustrate some players. Additionally, PlayStation Country mentioned a desire for more focused content and tighter design, indicating that some areas could benefit from refinement. The SixAxis expressed a split opinion, recognizing the stunning world design but critiquing gameplay mechanics and narrative coherence. These criticisms suggest that while the expansion is a significant achievement, it is not without its flaws. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree" is a must-play for fans of the original game, with many considering it one of the best expansions in recent years. The expansion is lauded for its immersive world, engaging combat, and atmospheric storytelling, as echoed by critics like GameMAG and GINX TV. While some minor issues exist, such as technical hiccups and pacing concerns, the majority of reviewers agree that the expansion enriches the Elden Ring experience and stands as a testament to FromSoftware's mastery in creating compelling gaming content.

TL;DR

"Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree" is a critically acclaimed expansion that captivates players with its rich storytelling, atmospheric design, and challenging gameplay. Many reviewers give it perfect scores, praising its replay value and depth, while acknowledging minor flaws like a lack of gameplay innovation and variable difficulty. Despite some critiques, it's a must-play for fans, solidifying its status as one of the best expansions in recent gaming history.

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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