Games by FromSoftware are hardly single entities. Rather, they are the culmination of fan service, theories, blended mechanics, and everything in between. Elden Ring is no different. And, with the upcoming DLC, Shadow of the Erdtree, fans have been building their own version of the game in their heads.
Some of these theories make a lot of sense, while others seem a little far-fetched. Then again, anything can happen in the bleak world of The Lands Between. There are three solid theories that strike out, out of which one may just manifest into the actual game.
The Three Big Theories About Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree
Redditors are some of the most dedicated people on the internet who keep a game’s community thriving. Three users had their takes on what exactly we’ll see in the DLC, and there are some interesting ideas here.
Miquella’s Solution to the Erdtree and Greater Will
The first one is by user spudzzy. Their post speaks about the possible connection between Torrent, Melina, and Miquella. There are three important characters in the narrative.
Based on the post, the user talks about Melina’s backstory, where we learn about her parentage. More particularly about her relationship with the Erdtree and how Melina found her purpose. The family tree goes up to Melina and Marika and their relation to Haligtree.
The theory focuses on the assumption that the Haligtree served as Miquella’s solution to the Erdtree, and connects to Melina’s story of origin. This, paired with the Golden Order’s work, makes for an interesting narrative choice for the DLC to throw players into.
The DLC May Take Place in the Afterlife
The second theory is based on a post by BrennusRex, which centers around the idea of the afterlife. Everything that happens after the death of the living in Elden Ring.
This theory suggests that Miquella in this world is a friendly NPC who still possesses a body and spirit. However, the DLC will allow players to experience the worlds in between the living and the dead.
Essentially, Shadow of the Erdtree will become a narrative of how events in Elden Ring came to be and how the player’s conscious life as well as spirit take part in it.
The Eclipse, Berserk Style
Finally, another interesting theory by user Crimsonmahou suggests a villainous arc. According to the post, the DLC will start off with an eclipse of the Erdtree, growing into a second tree and replacing what the Haligtree was supposed to be.
The story will dive into Miquella’s origins and motivation. However, things may take a twisted turn, and that’s where our players shine.
So, Which Theory is the Most Plausible?
Between all the assumptions of time travel and an even darker theme to Elden Ring, it’s likely that we can make a connection with the afterlife, as user BrennusRex suggested. There are two major things that can play a role if this happens.
Characters may just react differently to how players play into these roles. And, perhaps like Lords of the Fallen, this DLC can use the afterlife as a playable mechanic. Players will likely be able to traverse different worlds and see the locations of The Lands Between in a different light. Based on their actions, the consequences in both worlds can differ. Imagine the kinds of bosses, mysteries, and sidequests players can run into.
At the time of writing, there’s little known about the DLC. Until we have an official word from FromSoftware, there are a ton of theories you can find across the Internet. The ones you put your faith in are, well, completely up to you. However, something like the afterlife or time travel would make for a great gameplay experience.
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