Yesterday’s Shadow of the Erdtree gameplay trailer was a full-blown assault on the senses for every Elden Ring fan. In addition to an all-new map, new locations, characters, NPCs, weapons, enemies, skills, equipment, and bosses, who knows what other surprises From Software has in store for us.
The trailer also gave a significant amount of screentime to who will most likely be the big bad of the DLC, a tall, red-haired, serpent-wielding character dubbed ‘Messmer the Impaler’. This intriguing antagonist has quickly become the subject of intense speculation and theorizing. Who is he, what are his motives, and his connection to The Lands Between?
Messmer’s Design Hints To A Major Character
One of Messmer’s most striking aspects is his undeniable resemblance to the grown form of Miquella within the cocoon in Mohgwyn Palace. This resemblance, particularly the identical arm, has sparked a flurry of theories. Could Messmer and Miquella be the same person?
He could also be a twisted byproduct of Mohg’s experiments, taking Miquella’s place within the egg while the demigod escaped. These questions remain unanswered, adding a fascinating layer of ambiguity to Messmer’s character.
What Is Messmer’s Lineage?
Hidetaka Miyazaki, Elden Ring‘s game director, has confirmed that Messmer is indeed a demigod, suggesting a potential connection to the game’s established demigod pantheon consisting of Mohg, Malenia, Miquella, and the like.
Further fueling this speculation is Messmer’s vibrant red hair, a telltale sign of being an offspring of Marika and Radagon. This revelation adds further intrigue to the lore, potentially introducing a previously unknown child of the godly couple.
What lends further credence to this theory is his line in the trailer: “Mother, wouldst thou truly Lordship sanction, in one so bereft of light?” The “Mother” he mentions could most likely be Marika.
Messmer’s True Intentions
Beyond his potential lineage, Messmer’s name and visual design hint at a ruthless and domineering personality. The “Impaler” title is most likely a reference to Vlad the Impaler, a notorious historical figure known for his brutal methods.
Additionally, the trailer depicts Messmer seated on a throne strikingly similar to those found in Morgott’s boss arena, symbolizing his desire for power and potentially hinting at his intention to claim the moniker of Elden Lord for himself.
While his true backstory remains shrouded in secrecy for now, the details gleaned from the trailer and Miyazaki’s comments so far paint a fascinating picture of Messmer the Impaler. His enigmatic nature, potential connection to established characters, and seemingly bloodthirsty ambitions are very exciting to theorize about.
As we eagerly await the release of Shadow of the Erdtree, the mystery surrounding Messmer continues to grow, promising a thrilling encounter for Tarnished brave enough to face him.
Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree releases on 21 June 2024 for PS4/PS5, Xbox One/SeriesX/S, and PC for $39.99.
