Starting the Elden Ring DLC "Shadow of the Erdtree" can feel daunting, especially for players navigating their first playthrough. The original Elden Ring, released in February 2022, garnered acclaim as one of the best Souls-like games, and the DLC, which launched in June 2024, intensifies the experience with formidable boss fights, stunning new environments, and a plethora of exciting weapon types. However, players may find it challenging to initiate the DLC due to its somewhat cryptic nature—a hallmark of FromSoftware titles.

To embark on the "Shadow of the Erdtree" DLC, players must first meet specific requirements, such as defeating certain bosses and reaching a character level between 100 and 150. This range is essential given the significant increase in enemy health and difficulty throughout the expansion. Below, we’ll detail the steps you need to take to dive into this thrilling new chapter.

Requirements to Start the DLC

1. Game System: You need access to a PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One, or PC.
2. Game Copy: Ensure you have purchased and downloaded the "Shadow of the Erdtree" DLC from your respective store.

Key Bosses to Defeat

To access the DLC, you’ll need to conquer two pivotal bosses: Starscourge Radahn and Mohg, Lord of Blood. Below are details on how to defeat each and prepare for the battles.

1. Defeating Starscourge Radahn

Radahn is located in Redmane Castle, which can be accessed after completing specific pre-requisite tasks. Here’s how you can summon him for battle:

• Activation of the Radahn Festival:
  • Traverse to a Site of Grace in the Altus Plateau region.
  • Alternatively, progress through Ranni the Witch’s questline until you encounter Blaidd in Siofra River, who will hint at Radahn’s festival.

Battle Insights:

• Radahn wields massive twin swords and employs gravity-based spells that can catch players off-guard.
• Mid-fight, he can launch himself into the air and crash down, dealing massive damage.

Helpful Strategies:

• Radahn’s arena is populated with NPC summon signs. Utilize these allies to distract him while you focus on damage.
• The vastness of the arena allows the use of your spectral steed, Torrent, to maneuver quickly and evade attacks.

2. Defeating Mohg, Lord of Blood

Mohg resides in the elusive Mohgwyn Palace, an underground area that you can access by completing White Mask Varré’s questline. Here’s how to reach him:

• Questline Steps:
  • After encountering Varré near the starting area, follow his instructions to collect the Lord of Blood’s Favor.
  • Use this item on the corpse of a maiden at the Church of Inhibition.
  • Return to Varré to receive the Pureblood Knight’s Vessel, which teleports you directly to Mohgwyn Palace.

Battle Insights:

• Mohg is considered one of the toughest bosses in Elden Ring, especially in New Game Plus modes where enemy health and damage increase drastically.

Preparation Tips:

• Completing Yura’s questline can reward you with the Purifying Crystal Tear, which protects against Mohg’s damaging attacks.
• Acquire Mohg’s Shackle in the Subterranean Shunning Grounds to immobilize him for brief periods, allowing you to inflict damage without reprisal.

Entering the DLC

After defeating Radahn and Mohg, you must rest at the Site of Grace that appears in Mohg’s arena. This will trigger the appearance of a new NPC, Needle Knight Leda. Speak with her and examine the cocoon at the edge of the arena to be transported to the realm of Shadow, thus starting your adventure in the DLC.

Recommended Character Build

To tackle the challenges in "Shadow of the Erdtree," it’s advisable to have a character level between 100 and 150, with at least 50 Vigor to ensure sufficient health. Here’s a quick breakdown of what to prioritize:

• Vigor: Aim for 50-60 to withstand the increased damage from DLC enemies.
• Weapon Upgrades: Fully upgrade your preferred weapons to maximize your damage output.
• Flask Management: Collect Golden Seeds to increase the number of flasks you can carry, and gather Sacred Tears to enhance their effectiveness.

Final Preparations

Before heading into the DLC, ensure your equipment is ready. Fully upgraded weapons and a good supply of health and magic replenishing items will be crucial. The new weapons introduced in the DLC cater to various builds, so feel free to experiment with different playstyles.

With these steps and strategies in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to take on the trials that await in "Shadow of the Erdtree." The journey is not just about defeating powerful foes, but also about exploring breathtaking new areas and uncovering the rich lore of Elden Ring. Good luck, Tarnished!