Elden Ring’s Shadow of the Erdtree DLC Confirmed for June — Here’s What We Know So Far

After what feels like an eternity for fans of the critically acclaimed Elden Ring, FromSoftware has officially confirmed the highly anticipated expansion, *Shadow of the Erdtree*, will launch on June 21, 2024. The announcement, paired with a breathtaking new gameplay trailer, has once again ignited the community’s passion for the Lands Between — and we now finally have some tantalizing details about what lies ahead.

*Shadow of the Erdtree* marks the first major DLC for Elden Ring since its 2022 release. Described by FromSoftware as the studio’s “largest expansion to date,” the DLC promises a new region, new enemies, brand-new boss encounters, and a deeper exploration of the dark legacy surrounding Miquella, brother of Malenia. Speculation has been rampant for months regarding the role of this enigmatic demigod, and the trailer offers our first real glimpse into his long-foretold narrative arc.

The trailer reveals mist-drenched forests, shattered ruins, and grotesque new foes that look like they were ripped straight from a nightmare. One particularly intriguing moment features a darkened version of the Erdtree itself — possibly twisted by corruption — hinting at a theme of decaying divinity. While details about the exact size of the new area remain under wraps, visible world-building and lore elements already suggest FromSoftware is once again delivering an epic-scale experience.

Gameplay-wise, expect expansions to character builds, including new weapon types and armor sets. Players can also anticipate more freedom in navigating the new areas, closely following the open-ended exploration model lauded in the base game. Multiplayer components are expected to be supported as well, though exact functionality has yet to be detailed.

With pre-orders already live on major platforms and a Collector’s Edition featuring a statue of Messmer the Impaler — presumed to be one of the DLC’s main antagonists — fans are already counting the days.

Elden Ring set a new standard for open-world RPGs, and *Shadow of the Erdtree* looks set to expand that legacy with even more brutal challenge, rich lore, and haunting beauty. For Tarnished veterans and newcomers alike, June 21 can’t come soon enough.