Alanrevere Group

With the release of Elden Ring’s highly anticipated expansion, Shadow of the Erdtree, many players are eager to jump into the new content—but accessing it isn’t as straightforward as a menu prompt. FromSoftware has kept things in line with their classic approach: you’ll need to meet specific in-game conditions before stepping into the Land of Shadow. As a veteran Tarnished, here’s a breakdown of how to access the DLC Shadow of the Erdtree in Elden Ring without missing a beat.

Prerequisites: What You Need Before You Can Enter

Before you can even think about exploring the new DLC, you must complete some essential steps within the base game. These aren't optional—they’re required to unlock the path to the new content.

1. Defeat Mohg, Lord of Blood

The gateway to Shadow of the Erdtree is tied directly to Mohg’s domain, specifically the cocoon in Mohgwyn Palace. To access this area, you’ll need to defeat Mohg, Lord of Blood, a Shardbearer boss located in the late-game region. You can reach him by:

• Progressing through the White-Faced Varre questline, which eventually grants access to Mohgwyn Palace via a teleport.

• Alternatively, you can reach Mohgwyn Palace through a portal located in Consecrated Snowfield, which becomes available after obtaining the Haligtree Secret Medallions.

Once Mohg is defeated, you’ll gain access to a new area tied to the DLC.

Where to Go: Finding the Entry Point

After you’ve taken down Mohg, head to the cocoon behind his boss arena. You’ll now find a new prompt there—an interaction that allows you to “touch the withered arm,” triggering your transition into the Land of Shadow.

This interaction did not exist in the base game prior to the release of the DLC, so if you’ve already defeated Mohg before the expansion’s release, don’t worry—the entry point will be available retroactively once the DLC is installed.

Character Level and Gear: Are You Ready?

The Shadow of the Erdtree DLC isn’t designed for early or even mid-game players. FromSoftware clearly expects you to be experienced and well-equipped. While there’s no hard level requirement, you should be at least level 120–150 with a fully upgraded weapon if you want to stand a chance. Enemies in the DLC area hit hard and demand mastery of mechanics and builds.

If you’ve been rushing to complete Mohg just to get into the DLC, you might want to reconsider and spend more time upgrading your Spirit Ashes, collecting Talismans, and refining your combat style.

What Carries Over and What Doesn’t

Everything you’ve collected so far—your weapons, runes, spells, and equipment—will carry over into the DLC. This makes preparation a key part of your journey into Shadow of the Erdtree. However, note that the DLC will feature its own progression path, including new items, bosses, and likely its own set of rune upgrades or equivalents.

Accessing the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC in Elden Ring requires deliberate progress through core content, particularly the defeat of Mohg. This isn’t just a technical unlock—it’s a narrative and mechanical gateway that builds off your accomplishments in the Lands Between. If you’re already deep into New Game+ or wrapping up your first playthrough, now is the perfect time to polish your build and prepare for what awaits beyond the cocoon.

The Land of Shadow isn’t forgiving—but if you’ve come this far, you know exactly what you signed up for.