
The rumors are swirling within the gaming community that FromSoftware’s highly anticipated expansion for Elden Ring, known as “Shadow of The Erdtree,” may be slated for release in February 2024. While no official confirmation has been provided by the developers themselves, speculation has been fueled by a series of intriguing clues.
One of the primary sources of this speculation stems from a recently updated LinkedIn profile belonging to Kenneth Chan, a senior developer at FromSoftware and the Lead Game Designer for the expansive DLC. According to the profile, Chan has been dedicated to the development of Shadow of The Erdtree since April 2022, signaling an extensive period of refinement and expansion for this eagerly awaited content.
A new LinkedIn post appears to show that Elden Ring DLC has been in development since at least April 2022.
— Ziostorm (@Ziostorm1) April 25, 2023
Indicating over a year of development for Shadow of the Erdtree so far.
This is updated from a section that said "unannounced project" back in March.
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VERY Interesting… pic.twitter.com/9XWQ1r3r9g
This extended timeline for development suggests a level of ambition and complexity that surpasses previous DLC offerings from FromSoftware. Comparisons have been drawn to the company’s history, notably the release pattern of Dark Souls 3 DLCs, which were typically launched within a year of the main game. The deviation from this norm strongly indicates that Shadow of The Erdtree is poised to be a game-changer in the world of gaming expansions.
Elden Ring itself soared to monumental heights upon its release in 2022, captivating audiences with its rich lore, enchanting musical score, and captivating gameplay. Its success is underscored by the remarkable feat of selling over 20 million copies worldwide, cementing its status as a monumental achievement in the gaming industry.
This success also played a pivotal role in propelling Hidetaka Miyazaki, the mastermind behind FromSoftware, into the ranks of the top 100 most influential individuals of 2023. The impact of Elden Ring reached far beyond the gaming sphere, leaving an indelible mark on popular culture at large.
The prospect of Shadow of The Erdtree being slated for a February 2024 release has ignited fervent discussions among fans and critics alike. Many are eager to delve deeper into the world of Elden Ring, anticipating a wealth of new content and immersive experiences.
However, the potential release date may not be without its strategic considerations. FromSoftware is also on the brink of releasing Armored Core 6 in August 2023, a highly anticipated addition to their renowned mecha-themed franchise.
To avoid over-saturating the market with two major releases in close succession, there is speculation that FromSoftware may opt to stagger the launch dates, potentially pushing back the release of Shadow of The Erdtree.
As with any speculative news, it is imperative to approach this information with a healthy dose of skepticism. FromSoftware has not officially confirmed the release date for Shadow of The Erdtree, and until such an announcement is made, any details regarding the DLC’s launch should be treated as conjecture.
In the meantime, the gaming community continues to buzz with excitement and anticipation for what promises to be an extraordinary addition to the Elden Ring universe. The wait for Shadow of The Erdtree may be prolonged, but if the rumors hold true, it will undoubtedly be well worth it for fans eager to embark on a new adventure in this captivating realm.