Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree PS5 Buyer's Guide: Which Edition Should You Choose?

The long-awaited arrival of the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion has not only rekindled the flame for existing Tarnished but has also drawn a new wave of adventurers to the Lands Between. With multiple editions available, it's easy to get lost and make a purchase you'll regret. As expert editors, our mission is to help you see clearly so you can embark on this epic journey without the slightest frustration. We'll break down how to choose the right version and avoid the most common pitfalls.

The 3 Biggest Mistakes to Avoid Before Buying Elden Ring on PS5

The video game market can be a real headache, especially with the proliferation of expansions and special editions. Here are the most common pitfalls for players looking to buy Elden Ring on PS5.

1. Buying the expansion alone without owning the base game: This is the number one trap. Shadow of the Erdtree is an expansion (DLC), not a standalone game. If you don't have the original Elden Ring game, the expansion simply will not launch. The result: completely unusable content on your console.
2. Ignoring the complete editions: For newcomers, buying the base game and the expansion separately can be more expensive and far less convenient. Opting for a complete bundle is often the smartest and most cost-effective choice to enjoy the full experience.
3. Overlooking the game version: Make sure the edition you're considering matches your console (PS5) and your language. A simple oversight, and you could end up with a version for another platform or in a language you don't understand. Purchasing an English version of Elden Ring PS5 ensures a smooth and surprise-free gaming experience.

Essential Criteria for Making the Right Choice

To avoid making a blind purchase, here are the fundamental points to check. They will help you know exactly what you're putting in your cart.

1. Edition Contents: Base Game Included or Not?

This is THE crucial point. Before confirming your order, read the product description carefully.

• Elden Ring (Standard): Contains only the base game.
• Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree (Expansion): Contains only the additional content. Requires the base game to play.
• Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree Edition: This is the ultimate bundle, the complete Elden Ring game on PS5. This version, available physically or digitally, includes both the award-winning original game and the new Shadow of the Erdtree PS5 expansion. This is the option we recommend for anyone new to this universe or simply wanting a complete physical version.

2. Genre and Difficulty: Are You Ready for the Challenge of a FromSoftware Game?

Elden Ring is a PS5 action RPG developed by FromSoftware on PS5, a studio renowned for its legendarily difficult games. Prepare for unforgiving combat that will test your patience and reflexes. Exploration is greatly rewarded, but danger lurks around every corner. If you're looking for a narrative adventure where you can progress effortlessly, this game might not be for you. However, if you savour the sense of accomplishment after defeating a boss that gave you a hard time, then you've come to the right place.

3. Technical and Access Requirements

Even if you have the right version, a few practical details should not be forgotten. Installing the game and its expansion will take up a significant amount of space on your PS5's hard drive. Furthermore, to access the Shadow of the Erdtree content, it's not enough to just install it. You will first need to progress through the main game and defeat two specific bosses. This is an important detail to avoid any disappointment.

Our Top Pick for the Optimal Gaming Experience

To make your life easier, we've selected the edition that will meet the needs of most players, whether they're just starting out or looking for a complete physical version.

IDEAL FOR: NEW TARNISHED AND COLLECTORS

Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree - PS5 Edition

Why it's the right choice: This edition is the turnkey solution for diving into the adventure hassle-free. It's perfect for new players who don't own the base game, as well as for collectors who appreciate a handsome physical copy containing the entire experience.

The Pitfall-Proof Solution

By including the base game and its expansion, this bundle eliminates any risk of purchasing errors or incompatible content. It's your guarantee to have everything you need to explore the Lands Between and the Realm of Shadow.

The Key Benefits

Complete Content: Hundreds of hours of gameplay await with the main adventure and its massive expansion. Simplicity: A single purchase for the complete experience, without juggling multiple downloads or codes (the expansion may be on the disc or via a code in the box).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Do I need to finish Elden Ring to play the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion? No, you don't need to finish the game. However, accessing the expansion's area requires you to have defeated two specific bosses from the base game: Starscourge Radahn and Mohg, Lord of Blood. Once these adversaries are defeated, an interaction in front of Mohg's arena will open the way to the Realm of Shadow.

2. What's the difference between the Standard Edition and the Shadow of the Erdtree Edition? The standard edition of Elden Ring, released in 2022, only contains the base game. The Shadow of the Erdtree Edition is a newer version that includes both the Elden Ring base game and the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion. It's the all-in-one bundle.

3. How much storage space should I plan for Elden Ring and its expansion on PS5? The Elden Ring base game already takes up considerable space. With the addition of the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion, expect to need a significant amount of space on your hard drive, often over 100 GB in total. Remember to check the available space on your PS5 console before installation and free up some space if needed.