Introduction
The wildly popular action RPG Elden Ring took the gaming world by storm when it was released in February 2022. Developed by FromSoftware and published by Bandai Namco, Elden Ring garnered critical acclaim and record sales numbers. Fans are eagerly awaiting details on upcoming DLC and expansions to the Lands Between. Digital News Planet has compiled the latest information and frequently asked questions about the potential Elden Ring DLC.
What is Elden Ring?
Elden Ring is an open-world action role-playing game developed by FromSoftware and published by Bandai Namco. Set in the dangerous and mysterious fantasy world known as the Lands Between, players control a customizable protagonist tasked with repairing the shattered Elden Ring and becoming Elden Lord. Key features include:
- Vast open world with seamless environments and dungeons.
- Challenging combat utilizing weapons, magic and character builds.
- Epic boss battles against unique foes.
- Rich lore and worldbuilding by George R. R. Martin and FromSoftware.
- Wide character customization and RPG elements.
With stellar reviews and sales of over 16.6 million copies, Elden Ring has cemented itself as a modern classic in the gaming genre.
Is Elden Ring DLC Coming?
While not officially confirmed yet, Elden Ring DLC is highly likely based on FromSoftware’s track record. The developer’s previous titles like Dark Souls and Bloodborne all received substantial DLC expansions. Elden Ring’s massive scope and popularity make it prime for additional content.
In an interview with Famitsu, creator Hidetaka Miyazaki hinted at the possibility of Elden Ring DLC:
“I can’t say anything concrete at the moment, but I would like to do something.”
This suggests Miyazaki and FromSoftware have ideas for DLC and are interested in expanding Elden Ring’s world. But fans will have to wait for official word.
Elden Ring DLC Release Date Speculation
FromSoftware has not announced a release date or window for potential Elden Ring DLC. However, looking at their DLC history provides clues on when it could arrive:
- Dark Souls 1 – Released October 2011, DLC came May – October 2012
- Dark Souls 2 – Released March 2014, DLC came July 2014 – April 2015
- Bloodborne – Released March 2015, DLC came November 2015 – August 2016
- Dark Souls 3 – Released March 2016, DLC came October 2016 – March 2017
Based on this pattern, Elden Ring DLC could be released anywhere from Q3 2022 to mid-2023. But COVID delays and Elden Ring’s scope could push it further out. Most speculation centers on late 2022 or 2023.
Elden Ring DLC Trailer Analysis
While no proper DLC trailer exists yet, fans have closely analyzed the original Elden Ring reveal trailer for clues. At the 1:33 mark, the trailer shows a crouching player character approaching a mysterious glowing red crater.
This location does not exist in the base game. The red hue and rocky terrain suggest an underground zone. Prominent fan theories are that this could be a DLC area centered around a volcano or underground cave system. FromSoftware has a history of adding such fiery regions as DLC.
But without an official DLC trailer, fans can only speculate for now on what new worlds may emerge in the Lands Between.
How Much Will Elden Ring DLC Cost?
FromSoftware’s previous DLC content has typically been priced between $10-USD 20 individually or $20-$25 as a bundle. Elden Ring’s sheer scope could justify a higher price point. But in line with industry standards, the following pricing predictions seem reasonable:
- Individual DLCs: $14.99-$19.99 each
- Complete DLC Bundle: $24.99-$29.99
The pricing could also vary based on the size of the expansions. Smaller DLCs focused on new quests or single zones would warrant lower pricing than massive additions with new zones, bosses, and full storylines.
Game Director Hints at Cut Content for DLC
In an interview with Xbox, Elden Ring’s director Hidetaka Miyazaki hinted some ideas were left on the cutting room floor that could resurface for DLC:
“There are still some ideas that were left on the cutting room floor,” Miyazaki said. “I don’t think it would be right to say they could potentially appear as DLC. But if the opportunity arises, we may revisit some of those ideas, and see if we can rework them and add them.”
This tease of cut content reappearing in DLC lines up with FromSoftware’s past DLC approach. Old Hunters in Bloodborne featured many unused enemies and bosses. We may see Elden Ring follow suit!
Leaked Concept Art Fuels DLC Speculation
Potential leaked concept art has added fuel to the Elden Ring DLC speculation fire. Alleged FromSoftware artist Gabriel Björk Stiernström posted images on his ArtStation account before quickly deleting them. The art showed:
- A warrior clad in spiked black armor with a whip-like weapon
- A ruinous city landscape
- A large creature described as an unused Fire Giant design
While their veracity is unconfirmed, these sketches align with a DLC focused on cut content. The ruined city ties into rumors of an underground zone. And the sinister warrior could be a glimpse at a new boss or enemy. For now, fans are left piecing together rumors and theories on whatFromSoftware has in store next for Elden Ring!
What New Zones and Bosses Could DLC Include?
FromSoftware has an opportunity to expand the breathtaking world of Elden Ring even further. Here are some of the popular fan theories on what a DLC chapter could include:
Underworld Zone
As mentioned, concept art and the reveal trailer suggest a subterranean area filled with lava and fire. This hellish region could be deep underground, or even below Stormveil Castle. New enemies like volcanic monsters and demons would present fresh challenges.
Badlands Zone
Some fans speculate the Badlands hinted at by merchant descriptions could appear. This desert area would stand in stark contrast to the rest of the Lands Between. Shifting sands, oasis havens, and sphinx-like monsters await.
Miquella and St. Trina
These mysterious twin demigods could take center stage. We could finally meet St. Trina and explore her connection to sleep. And the incomplete form of Miquella hosts immense narrative potential.
Miquella and Malenia Boss Battle
Two of the legendary shards bearers, Miquella and Malenia themselves could appear as challenging new bosses. We may have to face Malenia in her unbloomed true form, and Miquella could have monstrous new powers.
Moonlight Altar
The dark moon of the Eternal City may get its own deeper depths However, these are only popular theories. FromSoftware is sure to have plenty of unique and terrifying ideas for expanding Elden Ring’s mythos further!
Elden Ring DLC – The Road Ahead
Elden Ring’s astounding success makes DLC a matter of when not if. FromSoftware has crafted an engrossing world with room to grow. We can expect new zones, lore reveals, wicked bosses, and rewards. While fans anxiously await official word, the future looks bright for Elden Ring’s DLC prospects. The road ahead promises to be one filled with heart-pounding challenges and deepening mysteries. Digital News Planet will keep you updated on any Elden Ring DLC announcements and info as they emerge!
Conclusion
The lands between still hold many secrets and adventures left to unfold. Elden Ring’s community eagerly anticipates DLC expansions that will build on the game’s incredibly strong foundation. With FromSoftware’s pedigree of robust post-launch support, fans have good reason to be excited. While details remain scarce currently, we can expect new zones, bosses, lore and powers that masterfully complement the base game.
Elden Ring has already delivered an unforgettable experience that revived the open world action RPG genre. DLC represents a chance to enrich this realm even further with additional challenges to conquer and stories to uncover. Whatever shape they take, these expansions will likely satisfy the craving for more of Elden Ring’s haunting world. FromSoftware has proven their capability to take already great games and make them even better. All signs point to Elden Ring being no exception. The best may be yet to come.
-
Q: How much will Elden Ring DLC cost?
A: Specific pricing is unconfirmed, but based on FromSoftware’s history, between $15-$30 USD seems reasonable.
-
Q: When will Elden Ring DLC be released?
A: A release date is still TBA, but speculation ranges from late 2022 to 2023.
-
Q: What new content will the DLC include?
A: Potential additions include new zones, bosses, abilities, lore reveals and quests. Underground areas and cut content may be a focus.
-
Q: Will there be an Elden Ring DLC trailer?
A: Not yet, but fans expect a trailer showcasing new content will come before release.
-
Q: How many DLCs will Elden Ring get?
A: Unknown, but previous FromSoftware games have received 1-3 major expansions. Elden Ring may get comparable post-launch support.
-
Q: Will Elden Ring DLC conclude the story?
A: Unlikely – the expansions will expand the lore but probably leave room for future games in the franchise.
-
Q: What platforms will get the Elden Ring DLC?
A: The DLC will likely release on the same platforms as the base game: PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S and PC.