Highlights
Elden Ring's DLC, Shadow of the Erdtree, is expected to add significant gameplay and narrative content to fill the gaps in the base game's lore.
Speculation indicates that Demigod Miquella will have a crucial part in the storyline of the DLC, possibly venturing into a parallel dream world.
The chief antagonist in the DLC is expected to be Godwyn, whose lifeless body beneath the Erdtree engenders darkness and Deathroots, evident from the darkened tree depicted in the promotional artwork.
Elden Ring's DLC release is still a while away, giving fans ample time to speculate about its plot and analyze the clues provided by its title and promotional image. Titled "Shadow of the Erdtree," the DLC is anticipated to introduce substantial content and enrich the gameplay experience, while also potentially filling in the gaps in the game's existing lore. Numerous theories have circulated regarding the DLC, ranging from Queen Marika's backstory and the identity of Melina, to unraveling the mysteries surrounding the Gloam-Eyed Queen. By examining the DLC's name and accompanying artwork, several possible storylines emerge, which are likely to revolve around the setting and pivotal non-player characters. While these concepts may offer insights, it should be noted that the DLC's narrative journey may also address other lingering questions.
Miquella and the World of Dreams
The Demigod Miquella is undeniably crucial to the narrative of Shadow of the Erdtree according to the overwhelming consensus among fans. It is widely speculated that the horseback figure depicted on the poster is none other than Miquella herself, as evidenced by the presence of spirit objects, a vibrant and thriving field, and potentially the horse Torrent, all of which evoke imagery associated with Miquella. Despite the fact that Miquella's physical form is currently confined within Mohg’s palace, this DLC has the potential to continue Elden Ring's unfinished St. Trina quest line and delve into a parallel realm of dreams, a perfected rendition of the Lands Between that has been tainted by a mysterious darkness.
Godwyn's Shadow Clings To The Erdtree
It is highly likely that the darkness originates from Godwyn's lifeless body. As the first Demigod to experience true death, the Prince of Death was laid to rest directly beneath the Erdtree in a desperate attempt to restore his soul to the cycle of reincarnation. Regrettably, this act unintentionally allowed the first of Those Who Live In Death to feed off its energy, causing Godwyn's influence to spread through his eyes and Deathroots wherever the Erdtree's power extends. Regardless of the location portrayed in the Shadow of the Erdtree, the enigmatic tree depicted in its poster serves as a clear indication of Godwyn's role as the primary threat.
An Eclipse Brings A Land Devoid of Grace
Even the backdrop of that poster may hold vital clues. The Erdtree's presence permeates the Lands Between, not only as its secondary sun but also as a means to reinforce the Greater Will's dominion over reality. If an eclipse were to occur upon the Erdtree, as depicted in the poster, the boundaries of reality would loosen, granting access to realms inhabited by dreams, spirits, and Those Who Live In Death, particularly associated with twilight and eclipses. While these aspects received sporadic attention in the main game, the DLC will likely focus on them, delivering more comprehensive explanations for Elden Ring's death-related concepts and factions such as the Helphen lampwood and Black Knife Assassins.
Elden Ring's DLC May Be Rooted In The Past
The last clue for Shadow of the Erdtree can be found in FromSoftware's previous Soulslike expansions. These expansions often incorporate time travel or a mix of different time periods, which could also be hinted at by the mysterious ruins depicted in the artwork for Shadow of the Erdtree. This opens up numerous possibilities for exploring plot threads and interacting with NPCs that Elden Ring might not otherwise have. While encounters with Marika or other historical figures may seem unrelated to the main quest of dealing with the remaining Demigods, they could still provide valuable insights into the mysteries of Elden Ring.
Elden Ring is available now on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.