5 beginner tips for Elden Ring DLC Shadow of the Erdtree

Elden Ring is known to be a fairly difficult game, as it is part of the Souls-like genre. The game requires the player to be on top of their game to conquer any enemy they encounter during the main story or open world. Two years after the release of Elden Ring, many players have managed to beat the final boss and get to 100% completion by following guides or practicing in isolation.

With that being said, the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC is as challenging as the main game, if not more. There are new bosses to defeat and new regions to explore. To make the journey easier, we look at five beginner tips for players in Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree.

Note: This article is subjective, reflects the writer's opinions, and is not ranked in any particular order.

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Tips to help you on your journey in the Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree DLC

1) Boost your Vigor

You need to have a higher level of Vigor to survive (Image via FromSoftware, Ratatoskr)

Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree is a bit more difficult compared to the main game, which is why you need to enter strong into the DLC. You should make sure that your Vigor is above 45 if you want to survive in these unforgiving lands, preferably 60+ if you want to avoid repeated deaths. During the start of your playthrough, use Runes or respec if needed.

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2) Scadutree Fragments

Collecting Scadutree Fragments will help you in the long run (Image via FromSoftware, Maka91Productions)

For a DLC, Shadow of the Erdtree offers a large map to explore, which allows you to find Scadutree Fragments in the open world. These fragments are utilized in powering up a special leveling system introduced for the DLC. They can help you make your build stronger, so you should prioritize getting them to boost your stats in the early stage of the DLC.

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3) New weapons

Great Katana can be found in the Elden Ring DLC (Image via FromSoftware, TagBackTV)

Gone are the old weapons in Elden Ring now that new weapons have entered the arena. Get your hands on the Backhand Blade near the first Site of Grace or the Smithscript Dagger in the Ruined Forge. If that doesn't match your playstyle, then look for the Great Katana by a lake and a Swift Spear to the east of Castle Ensis.

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4) Talk to NPCs

NPCs have valuable intel (Image via FromSoftware, Its Shatter)

Yes, you have just installed Shadow of the Erdtree DLC and you are excited to fight new Elden Ring bosses, but hold your horses for a minute and consider talking to the NPCs too. They are spread throughout the map and offer information that you might find useful on your journey. From hints and helpful items to quests, these NPCs have a lot to offer if you choose to engage in a conversation with them.

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5) Explore the map

A portion of Shadow of the Erdtree map (Image via FromSoftware, Its Shatter)

Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree is a massive expansion that offers a huge map for players to explore. Those who are curious enough to explore everything will find treasures and secrets tucked away in places that other players might never care to look for. You never know what you might come across during your exploration as valuable treasures await you at every turn.