With the long-awaited Shadow of the Erdtree expansion looming on the horizon, Elden Ring fans find themselves asking a familiar question: what's next? FromSoftware’s track record is full of surprise moves, but it’s also known for subtly planting the seeds of future stories well in advance. And now that the expansion is nearly here, it's the perfect time to look ahead.

This article unpacks what might lie beyond the fog walls after Shadow of the Erdtree, including possible DLC directions, new projects from FromSoftware, and how Elden Ring could evolve both narratively and mechanically.

Based on what we've seen so far, the expansion isn't a simple add-on—it's a bold extension of the core experience. Players will enter a new realm tied deeply to Miquella and explore twisted landscapes that rival anything in the base game. The presence of new enemies, bosses, and lore points suggests this isn't just a farewell tour but a transition. What we experience here may shift the entire perception of the Lands Between.

Mechanically, it's likely to offer new weapon classes, expanded Spirit Ash systems, and perhaps an overhaul of status effects or scaling. These additions might not just fit the DLC but set up frameworks for future titles. FromSoftware has a history of using DLCs to test concepts that later resurface in more refined forms.

FromSoftware has historically released just one major DLC for its Soulsborne titles. Dark Souls had Artorias of the Abyss, Bloodborne had The Old Hunters, and Sekiro skipped major DLC entirely. If that pattern holds, Shadow of the Erdtree could be the final content drop for Elden Ring.

But there’s reason to hope for more. The game’s massive commercial success—over 20 million copies sold—makes it a valuable property. There's plenty of untapped lore in the game, especially surrounding characters like Godwyn, the Gloam-Eyed Queen, and even the Greater Will. Any of these threads could support a standalone DLC chapter, even if it arrives later than expected.

Plus, with Shadow of the Erdtree focusing so much on Miquella, it leaves room for another expansion centered on other pivotal characters or even alternative endings.

The real wildcard is whether FromSoftware will return to the Lands Between with a true sequel. While they rarely follow a strict formula, the success of Elden Ring may tempt them to break tradition. There are signs that the narrative structure, which is more open-ended than previous titles, was designed with longevity in mind.

A sequel could explore the world centuries after the player's decisions, or even take place in another part of the same universe. There's also room to reframe the entire lore—we could see the rise of a new Golden Order or the collapse of reality as we know it. Expect new classes, expanded co-op systems, and richer storytelling layers.

And if you're just starting out or want to revisit the adventure from the beginning, be sure to pick up your Elden Ring EU Steam CD Key from RoyalCDKeys.

While speculation around Elden Ring's future runs wild, we can't forget that FromSoftware is a studio that rarely stands still. With Armored Core VI recently launched, they’ve shown their versatility. It’s possible the studio could split its resources—some developers focusing on new IPs or returning franchises, while a dedicated team continues the Elden Ring journey.

There’s also a chance that the engine improvements and combat fluidity seen in Elden Ring could serve as a technical foundation for unrelated projects. The studio is known for evolving gameplay mechanics across different series while keeping the heart of their games intact.

Modding, PvP tournaments, and lore theory channels have kept the game thriving long after its release. The Elden Ring community is one of the most passionate and creative, crafting their own narratives, challenges, and builds.

This engagement could influence how FromSoftware approaches future content. If enough players respond to a certain build style, weapon type, or lore twist, don’t be surprised if it becomes canon in a future installment. Just look at how certain weapons and story arcs have evolved in the Dark Souls series based on community fascination.

Based on feedback, wishlists, and the way the expansion is shaping up, here are some ideas that could define Elden Ring’s future:

• Deeper build variety: Introducing more hybrid builds and flexible class systems

• Expanded multiplayer: Full co-op campaigns, improved summoning, and new PvP zones

• Narrative choices: Dialogues and questlines that impact endings in more meaningful ways

• Hub expansions: Safe zones that grow with the player’s progression, possibly tied to factions or covenants

And of course, more cryptic NPCs with secrets that send the community into weeks-long rabbit holes.

While Shadow of the Erdtree feels like a chapter closing, it may also be the setup for what’s coming next. Whether we get more DLC, a full sequel, or something entirely unexpected, one thing is clear: Elden Ring isn’t fading into the mist anytime soon.

Now’s the time to sharpen your blades, revisit your builds, and prepare for the next age. And if you haven’t stepped into the Lands Between yet, don’t wait—grab your Elden Ring EU Steam CD Key from RoyalCDKeys and begin your legend.

The future is golden, and it’s forged in flame.

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