The highly anticipated expansion to Elden Ring, “Shadow of the Erdtree,” has been dominating the gaming scene since its release on Friday. While the atmospheric world and engaging gameplay have garnered praise, the notoriously high difficulty has left some players feeling overwhelmed. This perception is challenged by YouTuber and streamer NoahJ, who has completed the expansion in an unorthodox yet impressive way.
Facing the Erdtree Bare-Knuckled: NoahJ’s Unconventional Approach
NoahJ, a seasoned gamer with a dedicated following, has emerged victorious after tackling Shadow of the Eritrea. What makes this feat even more remarkable is his chosen approach. He opted for a “naked” run, eschewing armor entirely and relying solely on heavy weaponry to overcome the challenging encounters the expansion throws his way. This self-imposed restriction adds a significant layer of difficulty, requiring precise timing, strategic dodging, and an in-depth understanding of enemy attack patterns.
19 Hours and 1170 Deaths: A Grueling Journey
NoahJ’s playthrough, documented on his X network channel, clocked in at around 19 hours. This seemingly swift completion might seem contradictory to the demanding nature of his chosen playstyle. However, it’s important to consider the countless hours likely invested in honing his skills and mastering the game’s mechanics. Reaching this level of efficiency involves countless attempts and “You Died” screens, a testament to NoahJ’s perseverance and dedication.
Beyond the Naked Run: A Community of Challenge Seekers
NoahJ’s accomplishment is an inspiration to other players within the Elden Ring community. It serves as a reminder that even the most formidable foes can be overcome with the right combination of skill, strategy, and a healthy dose of determination. This “naked” playthrough represents just one way to approach the expansion, and undoubtedly more players will rise to the occasion, each showcasing their unique strategies for conquering Shadow of the Eritrea.
Moreover, NoahJ’s achievement is likely to spark a wave of creative playthroughs within the Elden Ring community. Expect to see players tackling the expansion with self-imposed challenges, ranging from speedruns to weapon-specific restrictions, further enriching the game’s replayability. This collaborative spirit of defying in-game odds is a hallmark of the Soulsborne community, and Shadow of the Erdtree promises to be a fertile ground for such challenges.
Learning from the Masters: Tips for Overcoming Shadow of the Erdtree
While NoahJ’s playthrough is a testament to his exceptional skills, it’s not necessarily a blueprint for every player. However, his achievement offers valuable insights that can benefit players of all skill levels:
- Understanding Enemy Patterns: Observing enemy attack animations and learning their tells are crucial for success, especially when dodging becomes paramount.
- Weapon Mastery: Identifying the most effective weapon for each encounter can be a game-changer. Experimentation with different weapon types and their move sets is key.
- Resource Utilization: Elden Ring offers a vast array of items and consumables that can significantly impact your survivability. Understanding the best uses for items like healing flasks and ashes of war can tip the scales in your favor.
By incorporating these principles into their gameplay, players can overcome the challenges Shadow of the Erdtree has to offer, fostering a sense of accomplishment and mastery.
Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree – Difficulty is a Feature, Not a Bug
The high difficulty of Elden Ring, and consequently Shadow of the Erdtree, is a defining characteristic of the Soulsborne series. While not for everyone, this level of challenge offers a unique sense of reward and satisfaction for those who persevere. Witnessing players like NoahJ push the boundaries and conquer the game in unconventional ways highlights the depth and replayability that Elden Ring offers.
FAQs
Q: How long did it take NoahJ to complete Shadow of the Erdtree?
A: NoahJ’s playthrough clocked in at around 19 hours. However, this likely doesn’t account for the countless attempts and practice runs that contributed to his success.
Q: Does NoahJ’s “naked” run represent the only way to experience Shadow of the Erdtree?
A: Not! NoahJ’s playthrough is a unique challenge, but players are encouraged to approach the expansion with their preferred playstyle and equipment.
Q: Is Shadow of the Erdtree too difficult for new players?
A: While the expansion inherits the challenging nature of Elden Ring, there are resources available to help newcomers.
