Elden Ring Shadow Of The Erdtree Vs Base Game Is The Dlc Too Hard For Casual Players

When FromSoftware released *Elden Ring*, it redefined accessibility in the soulslike genre. While still challenging, its open-world design, flexible progression paths, and quality-of-life improvements allowed a broader audience—including self-described casual players—to engage meaningfully with its world. Now, with the release of the *Shadow of the Erdtree* DLC, many are asking: has the difficulty curve shifted so dramatically that it excludes those who enjoyed the base game at a relaxed pace?

The answer isn’t simple. The DLC expands on what made the original great—rich lore, intricate level design, and deeply satisfying combat—but introduces new mechanics, enemy behaviors, and pacing that test even seasoned players. For casual players, the experience can feel overwhelming if approached without preparation. But with the right mindset and strategies, the expansion remains conquerable, not just for veterans but for those who never considered themselves “hardcore” gamers.

Design Philosophy: How Shadow of the Erdtree Changes the Game

The base *Elden Ring* was designed as an entry point into the soulsborne formula for millions. Its vast landscapes offered multiple routes around difficult enemies. Bosses like Margit or Malenia were tough, but optional or could be bypassed temporarily. Exploration felt rewarding, and progression was often gated more by player knowledge than raw skill.

In contrast, *Shadow of the Erdtree* assumes a higher baseline of familiarity. There are fewer safe zones. Enemies hit harder, track faster, and often possess multi-phase attacks from the outset. The environment itself feels more hostile—tight corridors, ambush-heavy layouts, and fewer checkpoints between major encounters. This shift reflects FromSoftware’s tendency to escalate challenge in post-launch content, similar to *Dark Souls II: Scholar of the First Sin* or *Bloodborne’s* late-game bosses.

But it's not just about raw difficulty. The DLC emphasizes precision, timing, and pattern recognition over attrition. Healing windows are narrower. Mistakes are punished more severely. Stamina management becomes critical earlier in the build process. These changes don't necessarily make the game unfair—but they do demand attention and adaptation.

Tip: Approach the DLC with upgraded gear from the endgame of the base game. Even minor stat boosts or better flasks can make early sections significantly smoother.

A Direct Comparison: Base Game vs. Shadow of the Erdtree

To understand the difference in difficulty, consider how key gameplay elements evolve between the two experiences. The table below highlights core aspects across both versions:

Aspect	Base Game (Early/Mid)	Base Game (Late)	Shadow of the Erdtree (DLC)
Enemy Aggression	Moderate; predictable patterns	High; complex combos	Very high; fast tracking, minimal recovery
Checkpoint Frequency	Frequent grace sites	Sparse in dungeons	Extremely sparse; long gauntlets
Learning Curve	Gradual; room for error	Steeper in late areas	Immediate; little hand-holding
Boss Design	Single-phase or clear phases	Multi-phase with environmental hazards	Dense attack rotations, instant-kill moves
Recommended Level	50–80 for mid-game	120+ for final bosses	130+ advised before entry
Exploration Freedom	High; many alternate paths	Moderate; some required fights	Low; linear progression with few escapes

This data shows that *Shadow of the Erdtree* doesn’t just raise the stakes—it alters the fundamental rhythm of play. Where the base game rewarded patience and exploration, the DLC leans into tension and precision. It’s less forgiving of passive playstyles and demands active engagement from the first hour.

Can Casual Players Succeed? Realistic Pathways Forward

Calling someone a \"casual player\" doesn’t mean they lack skill—it means they play intermittently, may not optimize builds, and prefer story immersion over grinding. For this group, *Shadow of the Erdtree* presents hurdles, but not insurmountable ones.

Many players report completing the DLC between levels 130–150 using well-balanced, non-metagame builds. Faith, strength, and bleed-focused archetypes all work effectively. The key is preparation. Unlike the base game, where you could stumble into Liurnia and grow organically, the DLC expects readiness. Entering under-leveled or undergeared leads to frustration, not fair challenge.

“FromSoft’s DLCs have always been designed for players who’ve mastered the core loop. Shadow of the Erdtree respects your time only if you respect preparation.” — Kaito Nakamura, Souls Community Lead at GameDepth Analysis

The good news? Preparation doesn’t require mastery. With access to online resources, community guides, and even co-op summoning, casual players can navigate the toughest moments. Some bosses allow summoning NPCs or other players, providing breathing room during learning phases. Others offer consumables or environmental advantages—if you know where to look.

Mini Case Study: Sarah’s Journey Through the DLC

Sarah, a 34-year-old teacher, played *Elden Ring* off and on over six months. She reached The Lands Between’s endgame at level 125, using a strength-based build with moderate upgrades. She skipped optional bosses, relied on summons occasionally, and prioritized story over completionism.

When she started *Shadow of the Erdtree*, her first boss—Messmer, the Impaler—defeated her 17 times. Discouraged, she paused the game for a week. Then, she watched a single 10-minute strategy video, upgraded her armor to +12, swapped to a shield with higher stability, and adjusted her talisman loadout. On her next attempt, she won in three tries.

Her insight? “It wasn’t that I wasn’t good enough. It was that I didn’t know what the fight wanted from me. Once I understood the rhythm, it clicked.”

Sarah’s experience mirrors thousands of others. The DLC isn’t impossible for casual players—it simply rewards informed play more heavily than the base game did.

Strategies for Casual Players: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re returning to *Elden Ring* after a break or approaching the DLC without a hardcore mindset, follow this sequence to maximize your chances of success:

1. Complete Key Endgame Content: Finish at least Radahn, Ranni, and the Godskin Duo quests. These provide essential runes, items, and NPC summons useful in the DLC.
2. Upgrade Your Flask of Crimson Tears: Invest in the Sacred Tear upgrade tree. Increased max HP and faster healing are invaluable.
3. Maximize Weapon and Armor Levels: Use Smithing Stones and Somber Smithing Stones to reach +25 on primary gear. Don’t neglect your talismans.
4. Optimize Your Build: Visit the Island of Eternal Summer to farm Embers and boost stats. Aim for at least 40 Vigor, 25 Endurance, and class-relevant primaries (e.g., 50 Strength or 60 Intelligence).
5. Learn One New Mechanic: Guard Counters: Many DLC enemies telegraph heavy attacks. Practice parrying or guard countering—they can turn the tide in tough fights.
6. Use Summons Liberally: Carry Spirit Ashes like Mimic Tear or Ancestral Follower. They draw aggro and give you space to breathe.
7. Take Breaks When Stuck: If a section feels unbearable, step away. Return fresh. Persistence matters, but so does mental stamina.

Tip: Farm Golden Seeds and Sacred Tears in the base game before entering the DLC. Extra flask charges make extended runs far more manageable.

Essential Checklist Before Entering the DLC

• ✔️ Character level 130+
• ✔️ Main weapon upgraded to +20 or higher
• ✔️ Full set of endgame armor (e.g., Bull-Goat, Depraved Perfumer)
• ✔️ Flask of Crimson Tears upgraded via Sacred Tear
• ✔️ At least three strong Spirit Ashes unlocked
• ✔️ Key Talismans equipped (e.g., Godfrey Icon, Flame, Grant Me Strength)
• ✔️ Completed Ranni, Volcano Manor, and Caelid storylines
• ✔️ Familiarity with dodge-rolling, blocking, and stamina management

This checklist isn’t about perfection—it’s about minimizing avoidable setbacks. Skipping prep turns legitimate challenges into brick walls.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Shadow of the Erdtree unfairly difficult compared to the base game?

No, but it is significantly more intense. The base game eases players into complexity, while the DLC assumes competence. Difficulty spikes exist, but they are consistent with FromSoftware’s DLC legacy. With proper preparation, most players can progress without excessive frustration.

Do I need to beat every optional boss in the base game to survive the DLC?

No. However, defeating major optional bosses like Starscourge Radahn or Fire Giant grants powerful weapons, spells, and runes that make the DLC much smoother. You don’t need 100% completion, but engaging with endgame content is strongly recommended.

Can I use summons throughout the DLC?

Yes. Most major bosses allow Spirit Ash summons. Some even permit co-op invasions, though these are rarer than in the base game. Summoning is not cheating—it’s a core part of the design intended to aid learning and reduce burnout.

Conclusion: Challenge Is Not Exclusion

*Shadow of the Erdtree* raises the bar—not to exclude casual players, but to reward those who’ve grown with the game. It’s harder, faster, and less forgiving than the base *Elden Ring*. But it doesn’t close its doors to anyone willing to prepare, adapt, and persist.

The beauty of FromSoftware’s design lies in its balance between fairness and rigor. Enemies telegraph their attacks. Patterns repeat. Every death teaches something. And when victory finally comes, it feels earned—not gifted.

If you’re a casual player wondering whether this DLC is for you, the answer is yes—provided you’re ready to meet it halfway. Upgrade your gear. Learn the mechanics. Watch a guide if needed. Take your time. The Lands Between evolved, but they still welcome every kind of traveler.

💬 Have you tried Shadow of the Erdtree? Share your experience—especially if you're a casual player who made it through. Your story could inspire someone else to keep going.