How does scaling work for returning players in Shadow of The Erdtree?

A recurring problem with FromSoftware games is that overpowered players are able to steamroll through new DLC. Miyazaki has addressed the problem of returning players in Shadow of The Erdtree by introducing some new, interesting elements to Elden Ring.

New challenges for Shadow of The Erdtree

To combat the problem of massively overpowered players simply strolling through the Elden Ring DLC, the team have added a whole new stat to work towards. This new stat is comparable to the Attack Power of Sekiro. The stat can only be raised by defeating certain bosses and enemies. It will dictate how players are able to interact with the many new challenges of Shadow of The Erdtree.

What does this mean for returning players?

So, if you are a returning Elden Ring player, concerned you won’t be able to fully enjoy Shadow of The Erdtree DLC, don’t worry. The new attack stat will behave like a leveller. FromSoftware understand that there will be a lot of completed characters starting the DLC. This new element brings back that feeling of progression and improvement from the early game.

A large part of the joy of Elden Ring is in the feeling of coming up against a skill wall. Knowing it is time to leave an area and return stronger is a huge part of the gameplay. With the new stat introduced, this gameplay loop will return. Now, with the new stat that needs to be levelled, even overpowered, returning players will have to get back to the grind in Shadow of the Erdtree. By limiting the speed of gameplay with the new stat, overpowered players can still enjoy the game at the pace it was supposed to be played.

Levelling enemies

Of course, the new stat will dictate a lot of the new enemy difficulty in the DLC. However, the FromSoft will no doubt also introduce leveling to enemies and bosses. A low-level, beginner player will be presented with a much weaker set of enemies than someone sitting at level 500. However, DLC bosses in FromSoftware games are expected to be as strong as endgame ones.

The DLC won’t be a walk in the park, even for returning players. So, expect a challenge that will have you using all the new, exciting weapons introduced in Shadow of The Erdtree.