As Elden Ring fans eagerly await the release of the highly anticipated Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, many have been wondering exactly how difficult the content of the game could be.
Are we facing another Malenia-type boss? Or will Miyazaki take pity and give us something like the Mist Noble from Sekiro? Well, we won’t have to wonder much longer as Miyazaki has shed light on the DLC’s difficulty level—let’s just say, you should probably sharpen your skills.
The Elden Ring DLC Will Challenge Players
In a recent interview with IGN, Miyazaki dove into the intricate balance of difficulty, especially catering to both hardcore and casual players. Responding to the question about the challenges of creating content for seasoned Elden Ring players, he explains:
Our general approach to difficulty has of course not changed to Elden Ring. We want to create a challenging experience that tests the players and that gives them a feeling of satisfaction and accomplishment when they get through these struggles.
He continues,
However, we do want to stress that there’s still a freedom of approach and a breadth of strategy to these encounters. And that means both how you approach them if you want to face these challenges or come back to them later and circumvent them and find another way around and come back when you’re ready.
Miyazaki assures that this philosophy regarding balancing the difficulty is one the team has seamlessly transitioned to in Shadow of the Erdtree, promising something similar to the base game.
The Land of Shadow introduces new challenges, and Miyazaki hints at carefully crafted optional bosses designed to be as memorable and formidable as Malenia. While they’re not going to be essential for completing the DLC, these optional encounters are an additional challenge for those brave enough to take them down.
FromSoftware remains dedicated to providing a balanced level of challenge, allowing players the same freedom to approach and conquer using the strategy they feel works best for them.
Will There Be an Elden Ring 2?
In a pivot from the discussion on difficulty, Miyazaki also addressed the question of Elden Ring‘s future.
When asked about the possibility of another DLC or an Elden Ring 2, Miyazaki carefully answered the question without giving much away.
He refrained from categorically stating this as the conclusion of the game’s saga and drew parallels with the studio’s approach after Dark Souls 3. Optimistically, he leaves the door open for potential future developments, expressing a willingness to explore new ideas.
As the Elden Ring community eagerly anticipates the challenges presented in the Shadow of the Erdtree, Miyazaki’s insights into the game’s difficulty and the potential for future expansions or sequels offer a better glimpse into the dark fantasy’s epic narrative as we wait for its release in June.
Are you excited about the upcoming DLC, and do you hope to see the game’s story expanded with more additional content? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
