Elden Ring’s DLC Shadow of the Erdtree introduces players to  Elden Ring Runes a variety of challenging dungeons and field areas, each designed to test their skills, patience, and perseverance. From cleverly placed enemies to harrowing environments, the expansion builds on FromSoftware’s signature difficulty while incorporating new elements to keep players on their toes. Below, we explore the seven most frustrating and rewarding dungeons that leave a lasting impression on all who dare to face them.

7. Electric Sheep Plateau

The Electric Sheep Plateau is one of the DLC's more deceptive areas. At first glance, the rolling hills populated by seemingly docile sheep-like creatures might lull players into a false sense of security. However, these enemies reveal their true nature when the Tarnished turns their back, launching unexpected rolling attacks that can easily overwhelm the unprepared.

Adding to the chaos is the presence of a golden sheep and a giant sheep near the Cliffroad Terminus Site of Grace. The golden sheep's lightning-based attacks are difficult to dodge due to their minimal warning, while the giant sheep boasts a devastating charge attack that punishes players who linger too long. Defeating these formidable foes, however, is worth the effort, as they drop valuable Elden Ring Runes and other resources.

6. Belurat Well Depths

No FromSoftware game would be complete without the infamous poison swamp, and Belurat Well Depths delivers on this tradition in spectacularly frustrating fashion. This dungeon, set beneath Belurat, is the first major challenge players encounter in Shadow of the Erdtree. It features a sprawling poison-filled swamp that demands precision and careful navigation.

The swamp is populated by Man-Flies, whose erratic movement and poison attacks are a constant threat. Adding to the tension is the presence of an Ulcerated Tree Spirit, whose unpredictable attack patterns make traversing the area a nightmare. Players must use every tool at their disposal, including ranged weapons and anti-poison items, to survive this grueling environment.

5. Ruined Forge Lava Intake

The Ruined Forge Lava Intake dungeons introduce a unique challenge with their fiery aesthetic and molten hazards. From the moment players enter, they are greeted by a lava floor that immediately sets the tone for the dangers ahead. Fortunately, the dungeon doesn’t require players to traverse the lava directly, but it does demand careful navigation through narrow passages and strategic combat.

Stone golems guard the area, and their vulnerability to backstabs encourages a stealthy approach. Meanwhile, magma slimes lurk on the ceilings, ready to ambush unsuspecting players. This combination of environmental hazards and ambush enemies makes the Ruined Forge Lava Intake a memorable yet taxing experience.

4. Stone Coffin Fissure

The Stone Coffin Fissure is an awe-inspiring yet foreboding dungeon. Its centerpiece is a massive, fog-shrouded hole lined with stone coffins carved into the walls. Using Torrent’s double jump, players descend into this eerie chasm, but the real horror awaits at the bottom.

Initially sealed at the start of the DLC, the Stone Coffin Fissure warns players of the challenges within. The area is infested with Bloodfiends and Stone Caterpillars, whose attacks leave little room for error. At the end of this treacherous descent lies the Putrescent Knight, a formidable boss guarding a powerful secret tied to St. Trina. The dungeon is as much a test of nerve as it is of skill.

3. Darklight Catacombs

The Darklight Catacombs exemplify FromSoftware’s penchant for psychological horror. Located in Scadu Altus, this dungeon plays on players’ fear of the dark. Upon activating the Site of Grace, players find themselves plunged into near-total darkness, forced to navigate using only a lantern or by relighting hidden braziers scattered throughout the area.

Adding to the disorientation are hidden levers that must be activated to progress and gargoyles that lurk in the shadows, ready to unleash fireball attacks. The combination of limited visibility, intricate level design, and relentless enemies makes the Darklight Catacombs a true test of patience and determination.

2. Rauh

The once-idyllic mountaintop ruin of Rauh is anything but peaceful. While players can glimpse its imposing silhouette from the Gravesite Plain, reaching it requires navigating the treacherous Shadow Keep. Once inside, players are met with swarms of giant scorpions and other insectoid enemies that infest the once-sacred halls.

At the heart of Rauh lies Romina, Saint of the Bud, a chilling boss whose ability to summon additional insect minions can quickly overwhelm players. Her deadly precision and area-of-effect attacks make her one of the most challenging foes in the DLC.

1. Finger Ruins of Rhia

The Finger Ruins of Rhia stands out as the most bizarre and unsettling dungeon in Shadow of the Erdtree. Borrowing thematic elements from Dark Souls’ Bells of Awakening, this area introduces a unique stone device shaped like a finger, riddled with holes. Instead of striking it like a traditional bell, players must blow air through the holes to produce haunting melodies that open new paths.

The dungeon itself is filled with cryptic puzzles, ghostly enemies, and a pervasive sense of dread. Its eerie atmosphere, coupled with its challenging gameplay mechanics, cements the Finger Ruins of Rhia as the pinnacle of the DLC’s difficulty.

Conquering the Challenges of Shadow of the Erdtree

Each of these dungeons pushes players to their limits, combining intricate level design, challenging enemies, and environmental hazards to create unforgettable experiences. While these areas are undoubtedly frustrating, they also exemplify what makes Elden Ring and FromSoftware games so beloved: the thrill of overcoming seemingly insurmountable odds.

For those struggling to conquer these challenges, utilizing community resources such as guides, tips, and even Rune giveaways on platforms like MMOEXP’s Discord channel can make a significant difference. But ultimately, the satisfaction of mastering these dungeons lies in the determination, skill, and best place to buy elden ring items creativity players bring to the table