FromSoftware’s reputation for crafting memorable boss fights is legendary within the gaming community, with iconic encounters like Smough and Ornstein, Slave Knight Gael, and Genichiro Ashina etching themselves into the annals of gaming history. Even in titles that may not receive universal acclaim, such as Dark Souls 2, the boss fights remain a standout feature, exemplified by formidable foes like the Fume Knight and Sir Alonne. With the release of Elden Ring, fans eagerly anticipated a new roster of challenging adversaries to test their mettle against.
Elden Ring, boasting an expansive open-world unlike anything FromSoftware had attempted before, introduced a staggering number of bosses, surpassing the quantity seen in any previous FromSoft title. While not every boss encounter in Elden Ring is flawless or entirely unique, the game still delivers a plethora of standout battles that showcase the studio’s expertise in crafting compelling encounters. However, with the announcement of the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, speculation has begun swirling about what new challenges await players in the Lands Between.
Dragons have long been a hallmark of FromSoftware’s games, and Elden Ring is no exception. In the base game alone, players can encounter a formidable array of dragons, each offering a distinct combat experience based on their abilities and elemental affinities. From the magical onslaught of Glintstone Dragon Smarag to the icy assaults of Borealis, the Freezing Fog, dragons play a significant role both in gameplay and lore within Elden Ring’s universe.
Indeed, dragons hold a revered place in the mythos of the Lands Between, serving as ancient rulers of the realm before the dawn of civilization. The lore surrounding these majestic creatures adds depth to the world of Elden Ring, enriching the player’s journey with tales of conflict and truce between dragons and mortals.
As anticipation mounts for the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, speculation arises regarding the inclusion of dragons as boss encounters. While dragons undoubtedly offer thrilling battles and enrich the game’s lore, some fans may yearn for fresh challenges beyond the familiar sight of dragon wings and flames. Yet, the absence of dragons in the DLC could feel like a missed opportunity, given their integral role in Elden Ring’s identity and the precedent set by previous FromSoftware expansions.
In the end, the inclusion of dragons in the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC may present a double-edged sword for FromSoftware. While their presence could evoke a sense of familiarity and tradition, it also raises expectations for innovation and diversity in boss design. As players eagerly await further details about the upcoming DLC, one thing remains certain: whether soaring through the skies or battling on the ground, the dragons of Elden Ring are poised to leave an indelible mark on the game’s legacy.