Are you ready to embark on an epic journey to the northwestern reaches of the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC? This area holds secrets, challenges, and incredible rewards, but getting there isn't as straightforward as you might think. Many Tarnished find themselves scratching their heads, wandering aimlessly through the perilous lands. But fear not! This comprehensive, step-by-step guide will illuminate your path and ensure you reach your destination with confidence.
Step 1: Are You Truly Prepared, Tarnished? (And Do You Even Own the DLC Yet?)
Before we even think about navigating the perilous paths of the Shadow of the Erdtree, let's address the elephant in the room: do you actually own the DLC? If not, well, this guide might be a bit premature! Head over to your platform's store (PlayStation Store, Xbox Marketplace, Steam) and acquire the Shadow of the Erdtree. It's a journey well worth the investment!
Now, assuming you're a proud owner of the DLC, let's talk preparation. The northwestern part of the Shadow of the Erdtree is not for the faint of heart. It's teeming with formidable foes, intricate environmental puzzles, and challenging bosses. Before you even consider setting foot on this path, ask yourself:
Have you defeated Mohg, Lord of Blood, and Radahn, Starscourage? These are absolute prerequisites to even access the DLC. If not, turn back now and conquer these demigods.
What's your character level? While there's no strict level cap, a character around Level 120-150 or higher with a strong build will have a much smoother experience. The enemies here hit hard!
Are your weapons upgraded? Maxed-out or near-maxed weapons are highly recommended.
Do you have a good supply of runes, smithing stones, and other crafting materials? You'll need them for upgrades and consumables.
Have you thoroughly explored the initial areas of the DLC? Familiarity with the enemy types, environmental hazards, and general combat rhythm of the DLC will serve you well. Don't rush into the northwestern part without first understanding the challenges of the Shadow Lands.
If you've answered "yes" to these questions, then congratulations, Tarnished! You are ready to begin your true journey.
Step 2: Gaining Initial Access to the Shadow of the Erdtree
This might seem basic, but it's crucial. For those who haven't entered the DLC yet, here's how:
2.1: Defeating the Prerequisites
As mentioned, you must defeat two specific demigods in the base game:
Mohg, Lord of Blood: His arena is located in Mohgwyn Dynasty Mausoleum. Accessing this area can be done via the Pureblood Knight's Medal (obtained from Varre's questline) or by teleporter in the Consecrated Snowfield.
Starscourge Radahn: Found in Redmane Castle, Caelid, during the Radahn Festival.
2.2: Interacting with Miquella's Cocoon
Once both Mohg and Radahn are defeated, travel to the Mohgwyn Dynasty Mausoleum. Proceed to the boss arena where you fought Mohg. Near the back of the arena, you will find a large, spectral cocoon belonging to Miquella. Interact with it, and a cinematic will play, transporting you to the beautiful yet dangerous lands of the Shadow of the Erdtree.
Step 3: Navigating the Initial DLC Areas to Reach the Rauh Base
The northwestern part of the map isn't directly accessible from the starting point. You'll need to progress through a few key areas first.
3.1: Exploring the Gravesite Plain
Upon arriving in the Shadow Lands, you'll find yourself in the Gravesite Plain. This is your initial hub. Take your time here.
Activate the Site of Grace: There will be one right where you spawn.
Explore and gather: This area has new enemies, materials, and crucial Spirit Ashes.
Acquire Scadutree Fragments and Revered Spirit Ashes: These are absolutely vital for survival in the DLC. Scadutree Fragments permanently increase your damage negation and attack power within the Shadow Lands, while Revered Spirit Ashes boost your Spirit Ash companions. Seek them out diligently!
3.2: Traversing the Scorched Ruins and Following the Main Path
From the Gravesite Plain, your general direction will be north/northwest.
Look for paths that lead you through the Scorched Ruins. Be wary of the fiery hazards and aggressive enemies.
Follow the general flow of the level design. The game naturally guides you towards the next major area. You'll encounter your first major Legacy Dungeon within the DLC: Belurat, Tower Settlement.
3.3: Conquering Belurat, Tower Settlement and the Divine Beast Dancing Lion
Belurat, Tower Settlement is a vertical, multi-layered dungeon. It’s filled with challenging enemies and tight corridors. Take your time, explore every nook, and activate all Sites of Grace.
The boss of Belurat is the Divine Beast Dancing Lion. This is a challenging fight that will test your reflexes and understanding of its attack patterns. Defeat it to unlock further progress.
Step 4: Reaching the Cerulean Coast and the Realm of the Rauh
After defeating the Divine Beast Dancing Lion, the path opens up considerably, leading you towards the coastal regions.
4.1: Descending to the Cerulean Coast
From Belurat, continue to follow the path that leads downwards towards a vast, watery area. This is the Cerulean Coast.
This area is often characterized by its stunning blue waters but also by its powerful sea-dwelling enemies. Be prepared for ranged attacks and ambush opportunities.
Explore the coast thoroughly, as there are many hidden pathways and valuable items.
4.2: Locating the Rauh Base and Embracing the Northwestward Journey
The Cerulean Coast will eventually lead you towards the Rauh Base. This is a critical landmark and essentially your gateway to the northwestern part of the map.
Look for a distinct, large structure or a series of ruins that signify the Rauh Base. This area often acts as a transition point between the more open coastal areas and the complex, elevated regions of the northwest.
As you progress through the Rauh Base, you'll naturally start heading in a more pronounced northwestern direction. The landscape will begin to change, becoming more mountainous, with denser vegetation or ancient, overgrown structures.
Step 5: Navigating the Rauh Base and Ascending to the Northwest Heights
The Rauh Base itself isn't just a simple path; it's an intricate area with multiple layers and potential detours.
5.1: Through the Ruins and Ascent Points
The Rauh Base will likely involve traversing crumbling ruins, precarious bridges, and natural elevations. Keep an eye out for ladders, hidden paths, or jumping puzzles that allow you to gain altitude.
Many players get stuck here by trying to force a direct path. Instead, look for the subtle environmental cues that indicate an upward trajectory. Sometimes, a seemingly insignificant pile of rubble can lead to a climbable surface.
You might encounter new, formidable enemy types unique to this elevated region. Adapt your combat strategies accordingly.
5.2: The Shadow of the Erdtree Cathedral and the Final Push
As you continue your northwestern ascent through the Rauh Base, you'll eventually arrive at a very prominent landmark: the Shadow of the Erdtree Cathedral.
This cathedral is not just a beautiful structure but also a crucial waypoint. Activate the Site of Grace here.
From the cathedral, the path to the truly northwestern reaches becomes clearer. You'll likely see the distinctive topographical features of the area you're aiming for. It might involve a final, significant climb or crossing a large chasm.
The environment here will be distinctly different from the earlier areas – perhaps more desolate, wind-swept, or with unique flora and fauna. This is your confirmation that you've made it!
Step 6: Exploring the Northwestern Expanses
Congratulations, Tarnished! You've successfully navigated the treacherous path to the northwestern part of the Shadow of the Erdtree. Now, the real exploration begins.
Be Patient and Thorough: This area is likely to be vast and filled with hidden secrets. Don't rush through it.
Watch for Scadutree Fragments and Revered Spirit Ashes: These are still crucial for increasing your power within the DLC.
Prepare for Boss Encounters: The northwestern region will undoubtedly house its own set of challenging bosses, each guarding valuable rewards.
Uncover the Lore: Pay attention to item descriptions, environmental storytelling, and NPC dialogue to piece together the fascinating lore of the Shadow Lands.
Remember, the journey through the Shadow of the Erdtree is an adventure. Embrace the challenges, learn from your defeats, and revel in your triumphs. The northwestern part of the map awaits your courageous exploration!
Related FAQ Questions
How to Increase my Scadutree Blessing?
By finding and consuming Scadutree Fragments throughout the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC. These are often found near Sites of Grace, after defeating certain enemies, or hidden in challenging areas.
How to Get More Revered Spirit Ashes?
Revered Spirit Ashes are found in various locations, often guarded by strong enemies or located in out-of-the-way spots. They boost the power of your Spirit Ash summons within the DLC.
How to Defeat the Divine Beast Dancing Lion?
Focus on its elemental weaknesses (often Frost or Lightning), watch for its charged attacks, and be prepared to dodge its sweeping maneuvers. Summoning a Spirit Ash can draw aggro, giving you openings.
How to Fast Travel in Shadow of the Erdtree?
Just like the base game, you can fast travel between activated Sites of Grace using your map.
How to Find Hidden Paths in the Rauh Base?
Look for subtle environmental cues like small ledges, broken walls, or shimmering spots that indicate an illusionary wall. Sometimes, a well-aimed jump can reveal a new route.
How to Prepare for Bosses in the Northwestern Area?
Before engaging, observe their attack patterns from a safe distance if possible. Upgrade your best weapons, equip talismans that boost your defenses against their damage types, and have plenty of healing consumables.
How to Deal with Fire Damage in the Scorched Ruins?
Equip fire-resistant armor, use the Flamedrake Talisman, or consume Fireproof Dried Liver to mitigate fire damage. Rolling through flames can also reduce their effect.
How to Access the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC if Mohg/Radahn Aren't Defeated?
You cannot access the DLC until both Mohg, Lord of Blood, and Radahn, Starscourge, have been defeated in the base game. There are no shortcuts for this requirement.
How to Level Up Quickly in Shadow of the Erdtree?
Farm enemies in areas where you can quickly defeat them, especially those that drop a good amount of runes. Utilize Gold-Pickled Fowl Foot for a rune boost. Defeating bosses also provides significant rune rewards.
How to Return to the Lands Between from Shadow of the Erdtree?
You can simply fast travel to any Site of Grace in the Lands Between from your map, just as you would within the base game.
