Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree Walkthrough
"Shadow of the Erdtree" is a highly anticipated DLC for Elden Ring that expands the world of the Lands Between, adding new regions, bosses, dungeons, and lore. The story focuses on Miquella, son of Queen Marika, as they traverse the mysterious Land of Shadow, a dark and mysterious realm full of challenging enemies and dangerous bosses.
This walkthrough will guide you through the DLC, from the starting quest to the final boss, detailing all essential paths, dungeons, and secrets along the way.
1. Starting the DLC - Reaching the Land of Shadow
To begin the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, you must first defeat both Starscourge Radahn and Mogh, Lord of Blood. Once both are defeated, travel to the cocoon holding Miquella's body in Mohgwyn Palace. Upon interacting with the cocoon, a cutscene will initiate, transporting you to the Land of Shadow, the primary setting for the DLC.
2. Gravesite Plain (West) - First Region Overview
Recommended Level: 100-120
Primary Objective: Reach Belurat, Tower Settlement
Enemies: Shadow Undead, Ghostflame Wraiths
As you explore the Gravesite Plain (West), you'll be introduced to the new enemies of the DLC. Your first goal is to reach Belurat, Tower Settlement, a large Legacy Dungeon that lies at the heart of this area. Before proceeding, be sure to collect Scadutree Fragments, as these provide vital power boosts throughout the DLC.
Important Items and Locations:
Scadutree Blessings: Scattered throughout the area, needed to strengthen your character.
Revered Spirit Ashes: Hidden near the Three-Path Cross Site of Grace, powerful summons that will aid you in upcoming battles.
Hornsent Grandam: NPC found in Belurat, who provides lore and side quests.
3. Belurat, Tower Settlement - Legacy Dungeon
Boss: Divine Beast Dancing Lion
Rewards: Revered Spirit Ash, Scadutree Fragment
The Belurat, Tower Settlement is a sprawling Legacy Dungeon filled with undead enemies, platforming challenges, and puzzle-like areas. Explore the dungeon thoroughly to find the Storeroom Key and unlock hidden treasures. The boss, Divine Beast Dancing Lion, is a ferocious beast that can deal massive damage but is weak to lightning and magic attacks.
Upon defeating the boss, collect the Scadutree Fragment and speak to the Hornsent Grandam while wearing the boss's mask for additional lore.
4. Gravesite Plain (East) - Path to Castle Ensis
Recommended Level: 120-130
Enemies: Shadow Knights, Carrion Creatures
The Gravesite Plain (East) is home to Castle Ensis, a minor Legacy Dungeon where you must face more dangerous foes. The path leading to the castle is filled with treacherous terrain, so be prepared for ambushes and environmental hazards.
Key Objectives:
Bonny Village: Search for another Revered Spirit Ash and Scadutree Fragment.
Castle Ensis: Fight your way through this minor dungeon to unlock a new Site of Grace.
5. Scadu Altus (West) - Entering Shadow Keep
Recommended Level: 130-140
Primary Objective: Enter the Shadow Keep
Enemies: Golems, Shadow Creatures
As you travel further east, you will enter Scadu Altus, an eerie mountainous region filled with deadly creatures. The goal is to reach Shadow Keep, a massive Legacy Dungeon divided into several parts.
Key Objectives:
Shadow Keep - Main Gate: Gain access to the keep by finding the correct route through the Ancient Ruins of Rauh.
Main Boss: Messmer the Impaler
Shadow Keep itself is a complex, multi-floor dungeon filled with specimen labs, church districts, and hidden passages. It's recommended to explore each floor fully to uncover the lore behind Miquella's journey and collect rare Elden Ring items such as Scadutree Blessings.
6. Cerulean Coast - Searching for the Stone Coffin Fissure
Recommended Level: 140-150
Primary Objective: Defeat the Putrescent Knight Boss
Key Items: St. Trina's Nectar, Scadutree Fragment
The Cerulean Coast is a stunning yet dangerous coastal area where you'll face the Ghostflame Dragon and explore hidden caves. The primary dungeon here is the Stone Coffin Fissure, a minor dungeon that hides a powerful Putrescent Knight Boss. Imbibing St. Trina's Nectar provides clues about the deeper mystery of the DLC.
7. Final Dungeon: Enir-Ilim
Recommended Level: 160+
Primary Objective: Defeat Romina, Saint of the Bud and uncover Miquella's ultimate fate.
Enemies: Demi-gods, corrupted spirits
The Final Dungeon, Enir-Ilim, is a culmination of all the challenges you've faced throughout the DLC. Here, you'll encounter the toughest enemies, including mini-bosses and optional side bosses. The final boss, Romina, is a tragic figure whose story intertwines with Miquella's journey through the Land of Shadow.
Key Questlines and NPCs
Throughout the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, you will encounter several important NPCs that offer side quests, important lore, and cheap Elden Ring items. Some key figures include:
Hornsent Grandam: A mysterious NPC found in various locations, offering insight into Miquella's past.
Count Ymir: Found in the Cathedral of Manus Metyr, he provides quests related to unlocking new areas and uncovering hidden dungeons.
Swordhand of Night Jolan:A powerful ally who aids you in the Church District of Shadow Keep and offers side quests.
Conclusion
The Shadow of the Erdtree DLC offers a deep and intricate expansion to the world of Elden Ring, introducing new enemies, bosses, and lore tied to Miquella's mysterious journey. With challenging dungeons, deadly bosses, and powerful rewards, this DLC is a must-play for Elden Ring fans looking to dive further into the game's rich lore and dark atmosphere.