FromSoftware has a reputation for crafting intricate and cryptic narratives, and Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree is no exception. With its lore steeped in mystery, players are encouraged to delve into item descriptions, environmental storytelling, and scattered dialogues to piece together the vast world of the Lands Between. However, while this method of storytelling is often lauded for its depth, the ending of Shadow of the Erdtree has left many players feeling underwhelmed and teased rather than satisfied.

The Challenge of Unveiling the Lore

One of the most appealing aspects of Elden Ring is the thrill of uncovering its hidden lore. FromSoftware games are known for making players work to understand the story, often rewarding those who pay close attention with rich details and hidden connections. The lore surrounding the Land of Shadow is no different, with players like YouTubers Zullie the Witch and BonfireVN going to great lengths to uncover every detail. However, this meticulous approach can be both rewarding and frustrating, especially when significant story elements are only hinted at or left entirely to player interpretation.

In Shadow of the Erdtree, this frustration is most keenly felt in the final moments after defeating some of the game's most challenging bosses. The anticipation of a grand revelation is palpable, yet the ending cutscene falls short, offering only a glimpse of what could have been a much deeper narrative payoff.

The Disappointing Finale

The final boss battle in Shadow of the Erdtree pits players against Miquella and Promised Consort Radahn, two of the most formidable foes in the expansion. The battle is intense, requiring all the skill and strategy that Elden Ring players have honed throughout their journey. But after the dust settles, the reward is a brief and somewhat cryptic cutscene. Miquella, a character steeped in tragedy and potential, declares his intention to make the world a gentler place. This is followed by a fleeting scene that barely scratches the surface of the lore surrounding Miquella and the Gate of Divinity, an essential landmark in the Elden Ring universe.

For many, this ending feels like a missed opportunity. The Gate of Divinity, where Queen Marika ascended to godhood, is an area that could have offered profound insights into the greater lore of Elden Ring. Instead, players are left standing before a broken staircase, unable to interact with the Gate or gain any significant understanding of its importance. This lack of closure is particularly jarring given the build-up throughout the expansion, where the narrative continually hints at deeper secrets waiting to be uncovered.

A Comparison with Previous Soulsborne DLCs

When compared to other FromSoftware DLCs, the ending of Shadow of the Erdtree feels lacking. In Dark Souls III, for example, the DLCs are tightly interwoven, with the final moments of The Ringed City offering a poignant conclusion that ties together multiple narrative threads. After defeating Slave Knight Gael, players can offer the Blood of the Dark Soul to the Painter, allowing her to create a new world-a moment that feels both climactic and fulfilling.

In contrast, Shadow of the Erdtree leaves players with more questions than answers. Defeating Promised Consort Radahn should have led to a similar moment of revelation or at least provided more context about Marika, Miquella, or the Greater Will. Instead, the ending feels abrupt, as if the narrative stops just as it begins to delve into the most intriguing aspects of the lore.

A Tease That Leaves Players Wanting More

Despite its shortcomings, Shadow of the Erdtree is still a remarkable expansion. It expands the Elden Ring universe in meaningful ways, offering new insights into the Greater Will, Dragon Communion, and the Frenzied Flame. Characters like Metyr, Mother of Fingers, and Bayle the Dread enrich the lore, making the world feel even more alive and interconnected.

However, the ending remains a sore point for many players. The expansion does so much to recontextualize the existing lore and introduce new elements that it's almost jarring how little it offers in its final moments. The Gate of Divinity, the significance of Miquella, and the fate of Marika are all tantalizingly close but remain just out of reach.

In the end, Shadow of the Erdtree is a testament to FromSoftware's ability to craft compelling worlds that draw players in, even if they don't always provide the answers players seek. The ending may be a tease, but it's also a reminder that in the world of Elden Ring, the journey is often more important than the destination. The lore is out there, waiting to be uncovered, and for many, the thrill of discovery is reward enough-even if it leaves them wanting more.

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