Elden Ring Runes: Trees of Shadows - First Impressions of the Big DLC
Playing Elden Ring for the first time felt magical. Everything was new, and I was filled with a sense of exploration and awe as I made my way through "The Lands Between," stumbling upon the horrors of Caelid, seeing the beautiful vistas of Limgrave and Liurnia, and discovering the treasures that awaited me after challenging dungeons. The game's immersive world and intricate design left a lasting impression, setting a high bar for any future content.
Fast forward to the release of the highly anticipated DLC, Trees of Shadows. It's hard to imagine just how big the Realm of Shadows is, but my first step into it was definitely reminiscent of the first time I emerged from the elevator and opened the door to Limgrave. The initial moments in the new DLC brought back that same sense of wonder and curiosity. From the get-go, there were obvious areas of interest to explore, like the crypts to my left, some charred ruins directly ahead, a large castle in the distance, and the towering flaming brazier enemies from the trailer hovering just over the horizon.
In typical Elden Ring fashion, the first enemy I encountered ended up killing me. This immediate reminder of the game's unforgiving nature set the tone for the rest of my adventure. The difficulty spike was palpable, but it only made me more determined to overcome the challenges ahead. The Realm of Shadows is not for the faint of heart; it demands skill, patience, and a willingness to learn from every death.
As I delved deeper into the new area, I couldn't help but marvel at the atmospheric design. The Realm of Shadows lives up to its name, with dark, foreboding landscapes shrouded in mist and eerie lighting that casts long, ominous shadows. The sound design is equally impressive, with haunting ambient noises and a haunting score that heightens the sense of danger and unease. The attention to detail is staggering, from the intricate architecture of the ruins to the subtle environmental storytelling that hints at the history and lore of this new region.
One of the standout features of the DLC is the introduction of new enemies and bosses. The towering flaming brazier enemies, glimpsed in the trailer, are even more intimidating in person. Their slow, deliberate movements and devastating attacks make them formidable foes. However, they are just the tip of the iceberg. The Realm of Shadows is populated with a diverse array of new adversaries, each with their own unique mechanics and strategies. From swift, agile assassins that strike from the shadows to hulking brutes that can crush you with a single blow, the enemy variety keeps the gameplay fresh and challenging.
I followed the road less traveled, eventually arriving at the first big dungeon of the DLC: Berurat. This sprawling labyrinth is a testament to FromSoftware's mastery of level design. Each corridor and chamber is meticulously crafted, with hidden passages and secret rooms waiting to be discovered. The sense of exploration is heightened by the constant threat of danger, as traps and enemies lurk around every corner. Navigating the dungeon requires a keen eye and quick reflexes, as well as a healthy dose of caution.
Beyond the intense combat and intricate level design, Trees of Shadows also expands the lore of Elden Ring. The new region is rich with narrative threads that tie into the main game's story, offering deeper insights into the world and its characters. The crypts, charred ruins, and large castle in the distance all hint at a history filled with tragedy and conflict. Exploring these locations and piecing together the lore adds an extra layer of immersion and satisfaction to the experience.
In conclusion, Trees of Shadows is a worthy addition to Elden Ring, capturing the magic and wonder of the base game while introducing new challenges and content to keep players engaged. The Realm of Shadows is a dark, foreboding place that demands skill and perseverance, but the rewards are well worth the effort. From the atmospheric design to the diverse array of enemies and cheap Elden Ring Runes bosses, every aspect of the DLC is crafted with the same attention to detail that made Elden Ring a masterpiece.
