It’s been some time since Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree’s trailer dropped. Based on what Hidetaka Miyazaki has said about the game, fans have been entertaining all sorts of theories and ideas about what exactly we’ll get to experience in the massive expansion.
In an interview with Famitsu, Miyazaki shared a lot of insights into what fans can expect from the new DLC and how three major aspects will play into the game’s overall narrative and gameplay systems. Furthermore, these elements will also keep Elden Ring as a game that feels ever-evolving.
The Three Important Parts of Shadow of the Erdtree
User theangryfurlong on Reddit shared the translated interview where Hidetaka Miyazaki sheds a lot of light on how Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree might just be one of the biggest expansions coming from the studio. Miyazaki has hinted at three major components that are going to play a huge role in the game’s design.
First, players can expect to face new challenges. This isn’t just limited to dungeons, bosses, and new areas. There are going to be different enemy types and side-quests that are going to pose a challenge for old and new Elden Ring players alike.
Secondly, new weapons and combat systems add to this experience. While we’re not sure whether there are new ways of traversal or navigation systems, it’s clear that new weapons and abilities will let players explore the game in novel ways.
Thirdly, the new area, the Land of Shadow, is going to be a big addition to the map. Almost the size of Limgrave, this area will be covered by different dungeons, terrains, bosses, and more. Whether or not it is connected to Elden Ring’s history is something time will tell.
Hidetaka Miyazaki Has Set Realistic Expectations for Fans
Throughout the interview, Miyazaki cleverly dodged a lot of questions related to spoilers and stayed humble about FromSoftware’s intentions with the new expansion. It seems like the game design process has been in favor of creating multiple experiments.
There are new mechanics that will change the way players go against enemies, while also finding new ways of building their own character. However, these upgrades are also meant to push the narrative forward.
Even though we might not know much about what’s going on in the expansion’s story yet, it’s likely that the new gameplay changes will improve the way NPCs, quest lines, and stories work within the context of the Lands Between’s history and present time.
What’s the one gameplay upgrade you would like to see in the expansion? Do you think epic bosses like Radahn and Malenia will show up in the game? Let us know in the comments below.
