Since its release in February 2022, Elden Ring has captivated players with its expansive world, intricate lore, and challenging gameplay. As fans eagerly await the first downloadable content (DLC) for the game, speculation has ramped up about what the expansion may include. Theories have emerged from the community, delving into potential new storylines, characters, environments, and gameplay mechanics. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular fan theories and speculations surrounding the upcoming Elden Ring DLC.
1. The Return of Renna: A Quest for the Moon
One of the most talked-about theories revolves around Renna, the mysterious character who first appears in the game at the Three Sisters area. She offers players the ability to acquire the Spirit Calling Bell and the ability to summon spirits to aid in battles. Many fans speculate that Renna could play a significant role in the DLC, possibly leading players on a quest that explores the connection between the Elden Ring and the moon.
Theories on Renna’s Role
Fans believe that Renna may have ties to the celestial beings in Elden Ring, such as the Greater Will or the Moonlight Greatsword. Some speculate that the DLC could introduce a new questline that uncovers the truth about Renna’s origins, revealing her as a guardian of ancient celestial knowledge. Players may find themselves exploring new regions tied to the moon, such as celestial ruins or an ethereal realm above the Lands Between.
Gameplay Implications
If Renna indeed becomes a central figure in the DLC, players might gain access to new moon-based abilities or weapons, enhancing the gameplay mechanics. This could include new Spirit Ashes or spells that harness lunar powers, offering fresh strategies in combat. Additionally, players may be tasked with uncovering the mysteries of the moon and its significance to the Elden Ring’s lore.
2. The Faceless One: A Dark Encounter
Another popular theory among fans centers around a potential boss known as the Faceless One. This character could represent a manifestation of the player’s inner struggles or fears, reflecting the themes of identity and ambition present throughout Elden Ring.
Speculation on the Faceless One
Fans speculate that the Faceless One might be an optional boss encounter that players discover while exploring hidden areas in the DLC. This mysterious figure could be shrouded in darkness, with mechanics that revolve around deception and illusion. Players may face a multi-phase battle where the Faceless One shifts forms, creating an unpredictable and challenging encounter.
Thematic Resonance
The introduction of the Faceless One would tie into the game’s themes of loss and the consequences of ambition. Defeating this boss could reveal deeper insights into the player character’s journey, offering an opportunity for self-reflection and growth. This encounter would add an emotional layer to the gameplay, reinforcing the narrative depth that Elden Ring is known for.
3. Expanding the Lore: The Celestial Realm
Many fans believe that the upcoming DLC will explore new regions, particularly a celestial realm that expands on the game’s existing lore. This new area could provide insight into the cosmic forces at play in the world of Elden Ring, offering players a chance to uncover hidden truths about the Elden Ring itself.
Theories on the Celestial Realm
Speculation suggests that the Celestial Realm could be a visually stunning area filled with floating islands, starry skies, and ancient ruins that connect to the stars. Fans envision an ethereal landscape where players can encounter celestial beings, engage in epic battles against powerful guardians, and discover ancient relics tied to the Elden Ring’s creation.
Gameplay and Exploration
The Celestial Realm could introduce new gameplay mechanics that emphasize vertical exploration, such as grappling hooks or unique movement abilities. Players may need to navigate intricate puzzles or platforming challenges that take advantage of the region’s aerial environment. Additionally, new boss battles could revolve around celestial themes, providing fresh and exciting encounters for players to tackle.
4. The Underworld: A Descent into Darkness
Another prevalent theory involves the exploration of an Underworld region within the DLC. This area could serve as a counterpart to the existing lands, delving into the darker aspects of the game’s lore and presenting players with new challenges.
Speculation on the Underworld
Fans believe that the Underworld could be a haunting environment filled with dark caverns, twisted landscapes, and sinister creatures. This region may house remnants of ancient civilizations that succumbed to darkness, offering players a chance to uncover their tragic stories.
Mechanics and Boss Battles
The Underworld could introduce new gameplay mechanics related to navigating darkness and light. Players might need to manage light sources to illuminate their surroundings, adding an element of survival to exploration. Boss encounters in this region could reflect the twisted nature of the Underworld, featuring nightmarish creatures that embody fear and despair.
5. The Return of Legendary Characters
Speculation also surrounds the potential return of iconic characters from Elden Ring, such as Melina or Radahn. Fans hope that these beloved figures will play crucial roles in the DLC, providing new quests and expanding the game’s narrative.
Theories on Character Roles
Players speculate that Melina could guide them through new challenges, offering insights into the Elden Ring’s significance and the world beyond. Radahn, on the other hand, could be a pivotal character in a new questline, perhaps seeking redemption or confronting the consequences of his actions.
New Abilities and Interactions
The return of these characters could also introduce new gameplay mechanics or abilities. For instance, players may gain access to unique spells or weapons linked to Melina or Radahn, enhancing their combat capabilities. Additionally, interactions with these characters could lead to branching storylines that deepen the player’s connection to the world.
6. New Factions and Alliances
As players explore the potential DLC, many hope to see the introduction of new factions or alliances that shape the narrative landscape of Elden Ring. These factions could offer unique quests, items, and gameplay mechanics that add depth to the experience.
Speculation on New Factions
Fans speculate that the DLC could introduce factions aligned with celestial beings, dark forces, or even remnants of lost civilizations. Each faction may have its own goals and philosophies, presenting players with moral dilemmas and choices that affect the outcome of their journey.
Questlines and Rewards
Players could embark on faction-specific questlines that delve into the lore of each group, uncovering secrets and forging alliances. Completing quests for these factions might yield powerful rewards, such as unique weapons, spells, or abilities that reflect their philosophies and powers.
7. A Focus on Crafting and Customization
Many players hope that the DLC will introduce enhanced crafting and customization options, allowing them to tailor their gameplay experience. The inclusion of new materials, crafting recipes, and upgrades could add a layer of depth to character development.
Speculation on Crafting Mechanics
Fans speculate that the DLC may expand on the existing crafting system, introducing new materials sourced from the upcoming regions. Players could gather rare ingredients from defeated enemies or explore hidden areas to find crafting components, enhancing their weapons and armor.
Customization and Personalization
Enhanced customization options would allow players to personalize their characters further, from weapon appearances to armor sets. This would create a more immersive experience, enabling players to express their individuality and style within the Elden Ring universe.
Conclusion
As the anticipation for the Elden Ring DLC builds, fan theories and speculations continue to spark excitement within the community. From the potential return of beloved characters to the exploration of new regions and lore, players are eager to see how FromSoftware will expand upon the already rich world of Elden Ring.
