Elden Ring’s Shadow of the Erdtree Expansion Revealed With Gameplay Trailer and Release Date

FromSoftware has finally lifted the veil on Elden Ring’s highly anticipated expansion, “Shadow of the Erdtree.” After over two years of speculation and teases, fans now have confirmation: the massive DLC will launch on June 21, 2024, and an official gameplay trailer offers the first look at what’s to come — and it’s every bit as dark, mysterious, and brutal as fans could have hoped.

The three-minute trailer dropped early this morning, showcasing a haunting new realm bathed in twisted golden light, populated by grotesque new enemies and spine-chilling landscapes. It also gives the first in-game glimpse of Miquella, a long-speculated character from the base game who appears to play a central role in the expansion’s narrative. FromSoftware’s signature environmental storytelling is in full effect, hinting at deeper lore tied to the Erdtree and those eternally cursed by its light.

In true FromSoftware fashion, the trailer doesn’t outright explain much — but its striking visual cues, eldritch enemy designs, and cryptic narration have already spawned a flurry of breakdowns and speculation among the fanbase. Players are especially intrigued by glimpses of towering armored figures, morphing magic attacks, and what appears to be entirely new mechanics involving spectral mounts and midair affinities.

“Shadow of the Erdtree” is not just a side story — FromSoftware president Hidetaka Miyazaki has stated previously that the DLC is “substantial,” potentially rivaling full expansions like Dark Souls III’s “The Ringed City” or Bloodborne’s “The Old Hunters.” It’s clear this is no minor addition; this expansion looks poised to deepen Elden Ring’s already formidable legacy.

Pre-orders for the DLC went live alongside the trailer’s release, with multiple editions available, including a Collector’s Edition featuring an imposing 46cm statue of Messmer the Impaler, one of the frightening new bosses teased in the footage.

With June just around the corner, the wait is almost over. Tarnished everywhere, prepare yourselves — the path to the Shadow of the Erdtree beckons once more.