Stepping into a new "branch," we encounter a map that is both old and new. Once known as Limgrave, it is now a land of shadows, tinged with an unsettling hue influenced by the Erdtree, which emanates an energy far from positive. The monster scaling mechanics are merciless, and the bosses are masterfully designed and highly unpredictable. Following in the footsteps of Miquella, the journey unfolds across a relatively small map, yet brimming with layers upon layers of FromSoftware's intricate design.

Everything is executed to near perfection. However, a few elements prevent this expansion from surpassing the side content of previous FromSoftware titles and earning the moniker of "Greatest Expansion Ever." These include the super boss known as Prime Radahn (akin to a community-created boss mod), the erratic performance of the latest update, and the slightly hollow feeling after unraveling Miquella's story and motives.

I give this expansion an 8/10. In my heart, it stands as the winner of "Best Ongoing Game 2024" and "Best Expansion of the Year 2024."

-SHADOW OF THE ERDTREE-