Elden Ring Shadow of Erdtree DLC Updates 2024-2025: Complete Patch Guide

Understanding the 2024-2025 Shadow of the Erdtree Patch Cycle

FromSoftware has demonstrated remarkable dedication to balancing Elden Ring's Shadow of the Erdtree expansion throughout 2024. Two major patches significantly reshaped the player experience. The most impactful update arrived on September 11, 2024.

Version 1.14 delivered substantial nerfs to the notoriously difficult final boss, Promised Consort Radahn. This overhaul adjusted his action patterns, reduced damage output, and decreased stamina depletion. It also improved visual telegraphing for better readability.

Notably, this marked the second time Radahn received balance adjustments, following changes to his base game incarnation. The patch specifically addressed the chaotic second phase where Miquella's light-based incantations previously obscured combat action, making dodging unpredictable.

Earlier in the year, the June 26, 2024 calibration update fundamentally transformed the DLC's progression system. The changes to Scadutree Fragments and Revered Spirit Ashes front-loaded attack and damage negation bonuses. This allowed players to reach effective combat levels more quickly while maintaining incentives for thorough exploration. This adjustment directly addressed community feedback about the expansion's steep difficulty curve.

Beyond balance changes, both patches included crucial technical improvements. These ranged from multiplayer connectivity fixes to PC performance optimizations and raytracing corrections. These updates showcase FromSoftware's commitment to refining the experience while preserving the challenging core that defines the Soulslike genre.

Community reaction has been particularly telling. Some players even created custom merchandise celebrating their pre-patch victories against the original formidable version of Radahn.

Key Balance Changes That Transformed Gameplay

The June 20, 2024, Version 1.12 patch dramatically reshaped the PvP landscape. FromSoftware focused on reigning in overperforming strategies.

• Swift Slash Ash of War

• PvP: Significant damage reductions and nerfed shearing vacuum effect
• PvE: Unchanged functionality

• Dual-wielded weapons

• PvP: Overall damage decreases across all weapon types
• PvE: Maintained original damage values

• Black Flame Protection

• PvP: Sharply nerfed to 15% effectiveness
• PvE: Retained 35% potency

Conversely, the patch strengthened underutilized options.

• Smithscript throwing weapons (Dagger and Cirque)

• Extended throwing range for both PvP and PvE scenarios

• Carian Sorcery Sword

• Improved Intelligence scaling across all game modes

These changes, alongside scaling corrections for outlier weapons, shifted the meta toward more diverse builds. Community reaction was mixed. While many appreciated the nerfs to one-shot strategies, others debated weapon viability. The Back Hand Blade and Messmer Soldier Spear emerged as top-tier choices. This demonstrated how the patch successfully redefined optimal PvP play at levels 150–168.

Community Impact and Player Reactions

The September 2024 patch (version 1.14) sparked intense debate within the player community. The official Bandai Namco Europe patch notes detailed six major changes to Promised Consort Radahn. These included adjusted attack patterns, decreased damage and stamina damage, and improved visibility of some attack effects. This last change specifically addressed the chaotic second phase where Miquella's light-based incantations previously obscured combat action, a point highlighted by EIP.GG.

Many players expressed relief, arguing the boss is now "way more enjoyable" while still maintaining significant difficulty. They praised the removal of the "light show" effects that made dodging unpredictable. This sentiment was echoed in Reddit discussions, suggesting the nerfs improved functionality rather than just reducing difficulty.

Conversely, veteran players expressed disappointment. They compared it to the controversial Starscourge Radahn nerf from the base game, arguing it reduces the technical complexity that defines FromSoftware's boss design. This concern was raised in another Reddit thread.

As Polygon noted, the nerf came after months of complaints about Radahn's overwhelming attack patterns. This highlights the ongoing tension in Soulsborne games between punishing difficulty and fair gameplay.

Future Update Predictions and Speculation

FromSoftware has ambitious plans for Elden Ring Nightreign throughout 2025. The studio is embracing a live-service approach for this standalone spinoff. This draws comparisons to Monster Hunter's content delivery model, as noted in a Kotaku article. This suggests we can expect consistent updates rather than isolated DLC drops.

The most significant expansion arrives in Q4 2025. It will introduce new playable characters called Nightfarers alongside fresh boss encounters. According to Game8's DLC Guide, Deluxe edition owners will receive this content automatically.

Before then, players can anticipate the addition of a Duos mode for cooperative expeditions. Increasingly difficult boss challenges will also be added, building on the foundation laid by Update 1.02. That update already introduced Enhanced Augur and Duo Expeditions.

FromSoftware's official communications hint that "the Night is far from over." This indicates sustained support potentially extending beyond 2025. Given the game's strong launch reaching 3.5 million players and FromSoftware's track record with exceptional expansions, expectations remain high for both the quality and quantity of post-launch content.

Mastering the Post-Patch Elden Ring Experience

The Shadow of the Erdtree expansion has dramatically shifted Elden Ring's meta. The Lightning Perfume Bottle Rolling Sparks Build emerged as the dominant force in patch 1.12. This setup is considered the most overpowered build in the game. It is capable of dealing over 30,000 damage with a single Ash of War activation.

The build's versatility shines through its ability to apply Rolling Sparks to four different perfume bottles, allowing customization against enemy weaknesses.

When it comes to defense, statistical analysis reveals that DLC armor sets dominate all weight categories. They outperform base game equipment across very light, light, medium, heavy, and very heavy classifications. This makes prioritizing Shadow of the Erdtree gear essential for optimal performance.

The community remains highly engaged. 4.8 million Reddit members actively debate optimal rune levels and strategies. While the consensus suggests 150+ for DLC content, the meta continues to evolve.

Key post-patch changes include the ability to summon Torrent during the Elden Beast fight and various balance adjustments affecting weapon viability. For those seeking comprehensive guidance, IGN's build guides offer valuable insights for adapting to the expansion's increased difficulty.

FromSoftware's commitment to Elden Ring extends far beyond initial release. Continuous updates reshape the gameplay experience. The September 2024 Radahn nerf represents just one example of how developer responsiveness can transform community engagement.

As we look toward 2025's Nightreign expansion and beyond, players can expect FromSoftware to maintain their tradition of exceptional post-launch support. They will do this while preserving the challenging essence that defines the Soulslike experience. Whether you're a veteran Tarnished or new to the Lands Between, staying informed about these updates ensures you'll be ready for whatever challenges await in the shadow of the Erdtree.