In keeping with FromSoftware’s typical flair for the mysterious (and often confusing), finding out how to start the Elden Ring DLC, Shadow of the Erdtree, isn’t immediately apparent. Not only do you need to meet specific criteria, but you also need to head to a designated location to begin Shadow of the Erdtree.
To start with, you’ll need to have beaten certain Elden Ring bosses from the main game. Though don’t worry, you don’t have to have finished Elden Ring. That’s not to say it will be easy, though. You’ll still have your work cut out for you.
How to Start Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree DLC
To start the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC in Elden Ring, you have to defeat Starcourage Radahn and then Mohg before interacting with Miquella’s arm in the broken cocoon in Mohgwyn’s Palace. This will teleport you to the Land of Shadow to begin the DLC story.
This means you won’t be able to make a new character and immediately head into the DLC, as you’ll first have to conquer Caelid. The good news is that if you’re an experienced player who has already defeated these bosses, then you can simply head to the withered arm in the cocoon and immediately enter the Land of Shadow map.
Starscourge Radahn
Starscourge Radahn is the main boss in Caelid, found to the east of Limgrave. By taking part in the Radahn Festival, most easily done through Ranni’s questline, you can summon your allies and take down Radahn.
Mohg, Lord of Blood
The second boss you need to beat is Mohg, Lord of Blood. Mohg is located in Mohgwyn Palace, a region hidden underneath Caelid. To access this area, you must either use the teleporter found in the frozen area west of the Consecrated Snowfield or use the Pureblood knight’s Medal, earned by completing White Mask Varre’s questline.
After defeating Mohg, you’ll conveniently find the withered arm directly behind him in his arena. Simply interact with Miquella’s arm that’s hanging out of the broken cocoon and you’re good to go.
How to Prepare for Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree DLC
Before taking on Shadow of the Erdtree, you’ll want to meet a few requirements.
Most importantly, it’s a good idea to have a solid build ready to go. While the DLC introduces a new leveling system exclusive to the Land of Shadow, you can’t go wrong with a solid build. Pick your favorite playstyle, such as Strength, Dexterity, or Intelligence, and grab a good weapon to go along with it.
You will also want to find Sacred Tears to increase the number of flask charges you have. Again, since the DLC introduces a new leveling system, your base level doesn’t matter quite so much. However, having more potions is a guaranteed way to stay alive longer that will carry over into the Land of Shadow.
Now you know how to start the Elden Ring DLC, you're ready to face the ten new Shadow of the Erdtree bosses. Well, at least part of the way. Be sure to take a look at our Elden Ring classes guide if you're a new player or starting a new save.