The Ultimate Transformation: Elden Ring's Epic Evolution in the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC

Highlights

Elden Ring's lore is centered around a complicated family dynamic, influenced by George R.R. Martin's storytelling style.

Elden Ring's upcoming DLC, Shadow of the Erdtree, has the potential to delve into alternate renditions of well-known main characters. With the possibility of either venturing into a parallel dimension or embarking on a journey through time, the DLC offers opportunities for intriguing character growth and an expanded narrative.

The intricate and mysterious lore of Elden Ring revolves heavily around a particular family. Similar to FromSoftware's previous games, the storytelling method involves conveying narratives through item descriptions and indirect means. However, with the addition of George R.R. Martin, known for his tales of political scheming and dysfunctional noble houses, the complexity of Elden Ring's lore intensifies.

As speculation arises regarding the story implications of Elden Ring's DLC, it becomes essential to ponder the roles of the well-established central characters. At the heart of Elden Ring lies a family established by four parents. Godfrey and Queen Marika gave birth to the Omen twins, Mohg and Morgott, as well as Godwyn the Golden. Radagon and Queen Renalla had Radahn, Ranni, and Praetor Rykard. Lastly, Radagon and Marika brought forth Miquella and Malenia. Each of these individuals is tormented, cursed, or driven by madness in their unique ways, and they all share a complex and often brutal history with one another, which could potentially be explored and modified in Shadow of the Erdtree.

Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree Could Show Alternate Versions of Characters

The Shadow of the Erdtree DLC by FromSoftware remains shrouded in secrecy, with little information provided to eager Elden Ring fans. However, enthusiasts have meticulously analyzed the single promotional image released by the developer. While it may not offer much insight, the image itself carries considerable symbolism. Notably, the landscape depicted bears no resemblance to any area found in The Lands Between. Furthermore, the decaying Erdtree in the background starkly contrasts its grand and luminous portrayal in the base game.

Drawing upon a similar approach employed in Bloodborne's Old Hunters DLC, FromSoftware may transport players to an ominous shadow dimension, showcasing distorted versions of familiar locations and delving into characters previously only mentioned in passing. Considering the DLC's potential inclusion of certain Elden Ring characters, this storytelling technique presents an opportunity to present these individuals in an alternate perspective. For instance, Rykard, known for his transformation into a man-snake hybrid, could be portrayed as human in this alternate incarnation. Similarly, Mohg and Morgott, who face exile and scorn due to their appearances, could possess unconventional attributes that may be attributed to another family member.

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Although these changes may not have an impact on the actual world of Elden Ring, the alternate reality presented could hold just as much significance as the reality players experience in the main game. This concept resembles the Hunter's Nightmare in Bloodborne. Shadow of the Erdtree faces limitations in terms of its quest potential if it adheres strictly to the known reality or timeline that players are familiar with. This is because most major characters are already established and, depending on when the DLC is accessed, may even be deceased. Alternatively, Shadow of the Erdtree could introduce linear time travel instead of a parallel dimension, enabling similar character development and the inclusion of significant characters like Godwyn and Miquella. However, implementing this would bring about potentially complex narrative implications.

Radagon, Marika, Rennala, Godfrey, and their descendants all contribute to some of the most riveting story content ever created by FromSoftware. This narrative is what sets Elden Ring apart and makes it impossible to replicate. Therefore, it is understandable that fans would want to delve deeper into the lore of the game. With the introduction of Shadow of the Erdtree, FromSoftware has the opportunity to expand and modify the relationships between these characters, whether through a parallel universe, time travel, or through other more intellectual means.

Elden Ring is available now for PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Series X/S.