Comparing Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree’s Length to FromSoft Games

Elden Ring’s Shadow of the Erdtree DLC promises to plunge players into its most expansive and challenging adventure yet. With a sprawling new map larger than Limgrave, over 10 formidable bosses, and gameplay that can stretch beyond 40 hours for completionists, this expansion redefines the boundaries of FromSoftware’s iconic world. Whether you’re rushing through the main path in under 10 hours or savoring every hidden dungeon, the Land of Shadows is packed with surprises waiting to test your mettle.

When planning to purchase the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC you may be wondering – how long is the expansion forElden Ring? We try to answer this question comprehensively. In our guide you will find information on how long the main plot of the DLC is, how much optional content it has and how many hours it can last on average. The knowledge obtained in this way will allow you to determine how much time it takes to completeShadow of the Erdtree in 100 percent.

Main plot lines and story bosses

The Shadow of the Erdtree DLC introduces players to the enigmatic Land of Shadow, a new region filled with cryptic lore and challenging encounters. The story delves into the origins of the Erdtree and explores the arc of Miquella, a pivotal yet mysterious figure in Elden Ring. To access the DLC, players must defeat Mohg and Radahn, setting the stage for a journey filled with betrayal and ancient secrets. The narrative unfolds through fragmented lore, NPC dialogues, and item descriptions, as players traverse landmarks like Castle Ensis and Shadow Keep. Along the way, they face over ten formidable bosses, including Rellana, the Twin Moon Knight, and Divine Beast Dancing Lion, each presenting unique mechanics and intense battles.

1. The main story of Shadow of the Erdtree DLC consists mainly of fights with main bosses – we have listed them all in the Bosses chapter. Additionally, you can complete the quest lines of the NPCs you meet, although not all of them are necessary to complete the game – the list of tasks can be found in the Quests chapter.
2. Completing the expansion should take you at least 17-20 hours. This largely depends on how well you have prepared for the DLC and how you will deal with the story bosses. Some DLC bosses are very difficult and you can spend hours trying to beat them.

Optional bosses and exploration of the Land of Shadow

The Land of Shadow in Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree offers a sprawling and densely packed map filled with opportunities for exploration and discovery. This new region, roughly the size of Limgrave and Liurnia combined, features interconnected landscapes with underground caves, towering mountaintop passes, and hidden secrets waiting to be uncovered. Players will encounter a variety of optional bosses scattered throughout, such as the roaming Furnace Golem and the enigmatic Needle Knight Leda. These encounters not only test skill but also reward adventurers with valuable Runes and unique loot. The emphasis on exploration ensures that even seasoned Tarnished will find surprises in every corner, making the journey through the Land of Shadow both challenging and rewarding.

1. Shadow of the Erdtree has a whole lot of optional content, including optional NPC quests, i.e. those not required to reach the final boss and complete the DLC.
2. There are many optional enemies in the game, which we have listed in a separate subsection: Minor bosses. Some of them can be as demanding as the bosses from the main story.
3. It will also take you a lot of time to fully explore the new map. Land of Shadow is a large and complex map – that’s why we have prepared an interactive map. It is full of optional dungeons, secret passages and well-hidden loot.
4. To experience 100% of the expansion’s content, you will have to spend at 50-60 hours withShadow of the Erdtree. Even after several dozen hours, the game may surprise you with a new secret or a perfectly hidden boss.
5. Unfortunately, the expansion does not offer new trophies. As a result, there is no extra motivation coming from pursuing achievements.

What are the most challenging aspects of Shadow of the Erdtree

The most challenging aspects of Shadow of the Erdtree DLC for Elden Ring stem from its heightened difficulty, dense world design, and relentless enemies. Key challenges include:

• Increased Difficulty and Accessibility: Accessing the DLC requires defeating tough base-game bosses like Radahn and Mohg, setting a high entry bar. Once inside, players face an immediate difficulty spike, with even early enemies capable of overwhelming seasoned players.

• Relentless Boss Fights: The DLC features over 40 bosses, many of which are described as some of FromSoftware’s toughest. Bosses like Gaius on a giant boar or Relanna with dual flame swords demand precise timing and mastery of combat mechanics, often taking dozens of attempts to defeat.

• Tight Map Design: Unlike the open-world freedom of the base game, the Land of Shadow is denser and more linear, with stacked areas that force players into confined spaces filled with deadly enemies. This design amplifies tension and limits escape routes.

• Resource Management: The introduction of Scadutree Fragments and Revered Spirit Ashes adds a layer of strategy. These resources are crucial for survival but can only be used within the DLC, requiring thorough exploration to stand a chance against its challenges.

• Thematic Brutality: The Land of Shadow reflects a harsher world compared to the Lands Between, with enemies embodying the suffering and fury of their environment. This thematic shift reinforces the punishing gameplay experience.

Overall, Shadow of the Erdtree pushes players to their limits, demanding mastery of mechanics, strategic preparation, and resilience against its unrelenting foes.

What strategies can help overcome the toughest bosses in Shadow of the Erdtree

To overcome the toughest bosses in Shadow of the Erdtree, players must adopt a combination of preparation, strategy, and adaptability. Here are some effective strategies:

1. Build Optimization

• Boost Resistances: Many bosses, such as Promised Consort Radahn and Messmer, deal elemental damage (e.g., holy or fire). Equip talismans, armor, or consumables to increase specific resistances5.

• Tailor Your Build: Some bosses are weak to particular damage types. For example, Metyr is vulnerable to magic, so sorcery-heavy builds can exploit this5.

2. Resource Management

• Use Scadutree Fragments: These fragments enhance your character’s abilities within the DLC and are crucial for surviving tougher encounters. Explore thoroughly to collect them before tackling major bosses.

• Summons and Spirit Ashes: Use upgraded Spirit Ashes like Mimic Tear or Black Knife Tiche to distract bosses during critical moments.

3. Combat Tactics

• Learn Boss Patterns: Study attack patterns and phases. For instance, dodge toward Promised Consort Radahn’s melee combos rather than away to avoid follow-up strikes.

• Positioning is Key: In fights like the Golden Hippo, confined spaces make camera control and movement critical to avoid getting cornered.

• Patience Over Aggression: Bosses like Messmer punish overextension with devastating counters. Focus on precise dodges and calculated attacks5.

4. Preparation Before Fights

• Level Up Strategically: Increase your vigor and endurance to withstand high-damage attacks from bosses like Commander Gaius or Messmer5.

• Stock Consumables: Bring health-restoring flasks, buffs like Holyproof Dried Liver for Radahn’s second phase, and status-healing items for specific ailments.

5. Optional Exploration

• Complete optional areas to farm runes, gear upgrades, and additional Scadutree Fragments. These can make mandatory boss fights more manageable.

By combining these strategies with persistence and adaptability, players can overcome Shadow of the Erdtree’s most formidable challenges.