There’s no doubt that FromSoftware’s Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree is perhaps one of the most anticipated DLCs to ever hit the market. Not only does the expansion sit as yet another entry in FromSoftware’s long tradition of producing meaningful expansions to its titles, but it is also one of the most punishingly difficult DLCs in the studio’s history.
Shadow of the Erdtree has managed to smash all records known to gamers and has proven to be the peak of gaming in 2024. It’s an expansion that adds to the rich Elden Ring lore, brings new characters, bosses, and weapons, and, most interestingly, connects the game to FromSoftware’s previous titles!
Shadow of the Erdtree Features a Clear Reference to Bloodborne Series
If you didn’t know already, Bloodborne is another Soulslike game crafted by FromSoftware and Hidetaka Miyazaki that has proved to be a major success. Its intricate world-building and gothic horror atmosphere captured the attention of millions.
Undoubtedly, one of the most striking aspects of the game was its iconic locations, and at the top of these was the Cleric Beast’s Bridge!
In Bloodborne, Cleric Beast’s bridge is a location where players first come across the terrifying Cleric Beast Boss. The bridge serves as a significant early-game challenge.
Since Shadow of the Erdtree‘s release, players have been finding various references by Miyazaki and his team. Now, they believe they found a direct reference to the Cleric Beast’s bridge in Shadow of the Erdtree!
Shadow of the Erdtree is chock-full of references to past FromSoftware titles. After going around a bit in the Land of Shadows and reaching Cerulean Coast, you’ll come across a dungeon that feels similar to The Tomb of the Lost Giants from the first Dark Souls game.
That’s not all; the DLC also features Black Gaolknight, one of the most iconic soldiers in the original Dark Souls game. You’ll also come across Rellana, one of the Twin Moons, who works just like Dancer, and Artorias fights, even taking place in a similarly styled arena.
There will be no doubt even more references that gamers will find in due time. It’s not hard to run into something in Shadow of the Erdtree that pays tribute to Miyazaki’s finest creations!
The Glaring Issues of Elden Ring’s Shadow of the Erdtree DLC
Although Shadow of the Edtree is truly phenomenal, it hasn’t been all smooth for FromSoftware. The DLC came under fire recently for being too difficult to beat, with many players stating that the expansion brings an unfair advantage.
Furthermore, the PC release of the Shadow of the Erdtee was hampered by serious technical issues, as a sizable group of reviewers on Steam reported facing audio problems and frame drops throughout their gameplay.
Despite its problems, Elden Ring‘s Shadow of the Erdtree DLC is destined to go down as one of the most impactful expansions. Its elevation of FromSoftwares’ Soulslike gameplay is truly fascinating.
Have you found any other references in Shadow of the Erdtree? Let us know in the comments!
