The Challenges and Rewards of Exploring the Shadowlands in Elden Ring's Epic New DLC

FromSoftware's latest formidable challenge for Elden Ring players has arrived with the Shadow of the Erdtree downloadable content. Expanding the game's map into a nightmarish new realm, ittasks even veteran Tarnished with facing terrors the likes of which they've never seen. But for those hardy adventurers willing to brave the Shadowlands' perils, treasure, lore and epic boss battles await to test your mettle.

A Difficulty that Divides Opinion

One topic dominating discussion since the DLC's launch is its aggressive spike in difficulty compared to the base game. While FromSoft fans expect a challenge, some feel certain aspects go too far. As one player wrote in Metro's Inbox, "It’s not even that you have to beat the game...you have to have beaten a boss that I never even knew existed the first time I played."

Others counter that accessibility options like summons and buying Elden Ring items online make the difficulty more manageable. And for die-hard Souls veterans, the satisfaction of overcoming such adversity is what makes these games so compelling.

Unfathomable Rewards for the Persistent

Where there's challenge, truly worthwhile rewards inevitably follow. The DLC showers players with dozens of fearsome new enemies dropping rare crafting materials. Its eerie regions hide legendary swordss, staves andincantations with unique abilities waiting to be uncovered. And its series of colossal mandatory and optional superbosses like Malok the Fallen propelyour character to new heights.

Toppingit all are the boss Remembrances, which can be traded for amazing Spirit Ashes, legendary spells, or turnedinto Runes worth millions at Enia. Truly, no resource spent toppling these behemoths goes to waste.

An Epilogue Worth the Effort

For those who make it through this grim expansion, which even veteran guides producers estimated taking 40+ hours, the payoff is a satisfyingsend-off to your journey in the Lands Between. Its conclusion brings the game's overarching lore full circle while opening up tantalizing new possibilities.

If you're a die-hard Elden Ring fan invested in its rich world, the Shadowlands may be the climax you've been craving. But heed this - its challenges will test even the hardiest Tarnished to their limits. Gear up fully before venturing into this epic new region at MTMMO.com, where you can buy Elden Ring items and Elden Ring runes to boost your character.