Over a year has passed since the launch of FromSoftware’s critically acclaimed open-world RPG, Elden Ring, and now, the game’s first major expansion, Shadow of the Erdtree, has finally arrived. Set in the mysterious Lands Between, this DLC adds new layers to an already challenging adventure, with Elden Ring Runes—the core currency for leveling up and acquiring essential items—remaining as crucial as ever in navigating this harsh landscape.

For fans familiar with FromSoftware’s signature Souls-like formula, Shadow of the Erdtree doesn’t disappoint. The expansion brings an array of new brutal boss fights and treacherous environments, crafted to push even the most seasoned players to their limits. Based on early impressions, the DLC stays true to the punishing yet rewarding experience that has made the series iconic.

However, the difficulty curve in Shadow of the Erdtree can feel inconsistent at times, much like the pacing issues found in the base game. Many encounters demand the same level of patience, precise timing, and willingness to learn from failure that define the Souls-like genre. Yet, some areas and enemies can seem surprisingly easy for veteran players, creating a contrast in the challenge level that feels uneven.

This imbalance is perhaps most noticeable with bleed-focused character builds, which continue to dominate in the DLC. Players who invest heavily in Arcane stats and wield bleed-inducing weapons, like the Hound’s Fang, will find themselves at a distinct advantage. Several new enemies introduced in the expansion are highly vulnerable to bleed damage, making this build path the most efficient way to conquer the DLC's toughest challenges. While other playstyles remain viable, bleed builds often feel like the easiest route to success.

The ever-reliable Mimic Tear summon also remains a powerful ally, offering both offensive and defensive support. A fully upgraded Mimic Tear can be a game-changer during the most challenging boss fights, providing enough of a distraction for players to study attack patterns and refine their strategies.

Despite these familiar mechanics, Shadow of the Erdtree offers some unique elements that help distinguish it from the core Elden Ring Runes experience. The introduction of the Eternal City brings a more intricate and interconnected level design, encouraging careful exploration and rewarding players who are diligent enough to uncover its many secrets. This labyrinthine layout adds depth to the already atmospheric world, inviting players to lose themselves in its mysteries.

True to FromSoftware’s style, the DLC continues the tradition of environmental storytelling, leaving much of the narrative up to the player to uncover. New characters, lore, and subtle clues are scattered throughout the world, inviting players to piece together the story through item descriptions, environmental details, and cryptic dialogue. This method of storytelling creates a sense of immersion and discovery that has always been a cornerstone of the Souls series.

Combat-wise, Shadow of the Erdtree introduces fresh encounters that breathe life into familiar gameplay mechanics. One standout moment early in the expansion is a challenging fight against a duo of lightning-powered tree avatars. This battle demands careful positioning and precise timing, forcing players to adapt to new patterns and tactics to avoid being overwhelmed.

Overall, Shadow of the Erdtree delivers the type of atmospheric, challenging gameplay that fans of Elden Ring and FromSoftware’s broader catalogue have come to expect. While it doesn’t drastically alter the core formula, the expansion provides a wealth of new content for players, particularly those who enjoy unraveling the mysteries of the world and taking on its formidable bosses.

For longtime fans, there’s plenty to enjoy here, though those hoping for a more dramatic departure from the established buy Elden Ring Items experience may find the DLC's reliance on familiar build strategies and its uneven difficulty a bit underwhelming. Nonetheless, Shadow of the Erdtree successfully extends the journey into the Lands Between, offering more of the rich worldbuilding, atmospheric exploration, and intense combat that made the base game such a standout hit.