Despite FromSoftware's diverse strengths, the studio is widely recognized for its spectacular array of boss battles. The essence of FromSoftware's legacy often lies in epic encounters like Smough and Ornstein, Slave Knight Gael, Genichiro Ashina, and the Orphan of Kos. Boss fights have consistently stood out, even in lesser-known FromSoft titles, with examples like Dark Souls 2's Fume Knight and Sir Alonne shining brightly. Naturally, fans anticipated grandeur from Elden Ring's bosses.
Elden Ring, an expansive open-world venture unprecedented for FromSoftware, boasts a plethora of bosses surpassing any of its predecessors. While not all boss battles in Elden Ring are flawless or entirely original, with some being literal repeats, the game still offers a variety of memorable encounters. Now, a particular legendary boss type is poised to make an appearance in Elden Ring's Shadow of the Erdtree DLC.
The High Probability of a Dragon Boss in Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree
Embracing Dragons in Elden Ring
Dragons have always been prominent in FromSoftware's major franchises, but Elden Ring takes their significance to new heights. The base game features a staggering 12 potential dragon bosses, most of which present unique challenges either through their distinctive combat style or elemental properties.
Beyond their gameplay role, dragons hold a crucial place in Elden Ring's lore as ancient inhabitants of the enigmatic Lands Between. According to Elden Ring's lore, the Ancient Dragons once ruled these lands, with Dragonlord Placidusax serving as the inaugural Elden Lord. Following a brutal conflict with Queen Marika and the Empyreans, the Ancient Dragons faced near extinction, only to be spared by a peace treaty brokered by Fortissax and Godwyn.
The Dilemma of a Dragon Boss in Shadow of the Erdtree
Given the integral role of dragons in Elden Ring's lore and their popularity in boss design, it seems probable that dragons will reappear in the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC. However, this decision could prove divisive. While some fans may crave fresh boss varieties in the DLC, considering the extensive dragon boss roster in the main game, others argue that omitting a new dragon encounter would deviate from the essence of Elden Ring. Moreover, it would break a longstanding FromSoftware tradition of integrating iconic dragons in fantasy-focused DLCs, often delivering standout boss battles like Darkeater Midir and Black Dragon Kalameet.