Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree – 10 Pro Tips for Conquering the Land of Shadow

1. Prioritize Scadutree Fragments

Your first priority in the Realm of Shadow should be collecting Scadutree Fragments. These items permanently boost your attack power and damage negation within the DLC area. The boost is significant—each fragment increases your stats by a percentage, and you can find them near the base of the Scadutree, in churches, and from certain NPCs. Without them, even common enemies will one-shot you. Make a habit of checking your map for glowing tree icons and exploring every ruin or landmark.

2. Mix Up Your Build for New Enemies

The DLC introduces new enemy types that resist or are weak to specific damage types. For instance, the Furnace Golems are highly resistant to physical damage but vulnerable to fire and holy attacks. Conversely, ghostly enemies (like those in the Finger Ruins) take extra damage from magic and lightning. Keep a variety of weapons or spells in your arsenal, and don't be afraid to respec using Larval Tears if your current build feels ineffective.

3. Use the New Ashes of War and Weapons

Shadow of the Erdtree adds over 100 new weapons and Ashes of War, many of which are designed to counter the DLC's challenges. The Dryleaf Arts weapons, for example, have unique dual-wielding movesets that excel against humanoid bosses. Experiment with the Backhand Blades for fast, evasive strikes, or the Lion’s Greatbow for powerful ranged options. Don't overlook the new incantations and sorceries—some, like Meteorite of Astel, can devastate groups.

4. Master the New Defensive Mechanic: Guard Counters

The DLC places a heavy emphasis on aggressive defense. Many bosses have long combo chains that are difficult to dodge, but you can interrupt them with well-timed guard counters. Using a shield with high stability (like the Fingerprint Stone Shield) allows you to block a hit and immediately follow up with a heavy attack that staggers enemies. This is especially effective against humanoid bosses like Messmer the Impaler.

5. Explore Thoroughly for Smithing Stones and Bell Bearings

Upgrading your weapons is crucial because the DLC's difficulty spike assumes you have a maxed-out weapon (+25 or +10). You'll find Somber Smithing Stone [7] and Smithing Stone [7] in the open world, but also look for Bell Bearings that allow you to buy unlimited upgrade materials from the Twin Maiden Husks. Key locations include the Moghwyn Dynasty Mausoleum (in the base game) and the Rauh Base in the DLC.

6. Tackle Optional Bosses Early for Remembrances

Don't beeline for the main story bosses. Many optional bosses drop Remembrances that can be exchanged for powerful weapons or spells. For example, defeating Divine Beast Dancing Lion grants the Lion’s Greatbow and Fleeting Microcosm spell. These rewards can make the harder fights much more manageable. Plus, optional bosses often grant Scadutree Fragments upon defeat.

7. Use Spirit Ashes Strategically

Spirit Ashes remain incredibly useful, but the DLC's bosses are designed to punish mindless summoning. Use Mimic Tear or Black Knife Tiche only when you have a clear opening, as many bosses have AoE attacks that can kill your summon in seconds. Better yet, try the new Spirit Ashes like the Gravebird which can distract enemies with its flock. Remember that upgrading your Spirit Ash with Glovewort is essential to keep them relevant.

8. Prepare for Devastating Status Effects

The Realm of Shadow introduces new and returning status effects that can quickly end your run. Death Blight (from certain ghost enemies) will instantly kill you if the bar fills. Sleep is also more common—carry Preserving Boluses and equip gear that boosts resistance. The Immunizing Horn Charm +2 can be found in the DLC and provides significant protection. Also, beware of Scarlet Rot in the southern swamps; bring Flame, Cleanse Me or Starlight Shards to craft boluses.

9. Learn Boss Patterns Through Summoning Co-op

If you're struggling with a particular boss, consider using the Small Golden Effigy to help others or summoning player phantoms. Not only does this give you a chance to study the boss's moveset without pressure, but you can also earn Runes and practice your timing. The DLC's most notorious boss, Promised Consort Radahn, has a brutal second phase that requires perfect dodge rolls—watching other players handle it can teach you the rhythm.

10. Don't Neglect the Map and Torrent Upgrades

The DLC map is fragmented—you'll need to find Map Fragments at specific obelisks to reveal the terrain. These are often guarded by tough enemies or hidden in tricky locations. Additionally, upgrade your Torrent by finding Mountaintop Tear items that grant him new abilities like a double jump (in the base game) or increased stamina. This makes traversing the vertical and treacherous landscapes much easier.