Spoiler Warning: This guide will break down the ending of Elden Ring’s Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, so if you haven’t played through it yet and want to avoid spoilers, proceed with caution.
Elden Ring’s Shadow of the Erdtree DLC expands on the lore surrounding Miquella and his connection to the Tarnished’s journey. However, many players have been left puzzled by the ending due to its cryptic presentation and lack of a definitive conclusion. Let’s break down what happens in the ending and explore its possible interpretations.
The Final Confrontation: Miquella and Radahn
The climax of Shadow of the Erdtree sees the Tarnished face off against a reborn Radahn, now known as the “Promised Consort Radahn,” alongside Miquella. This battle is the culmination of Miquella’s long-standing plan to ascend to godhood, with Radahn playing a crucial role as his intended consort. Radahn’s transformation, which incorporates Mohg’s bloodflame magic, adds a disturbing twist. Miquella’s manipulation of Radahn’s soul using Mohg’s body as a vessel hints at the lengths Miquella is willing to go to achieve his goal.
After defeating both Miquella and Radahn, the Tarnished is left with more questions than answers. The battle ends with no grand revelation, no celebration, and no one to acknowledge the player’s deeds. The player is simply left in the aftermath of the boss fight, with the lingering memory of what just occurred.
Miquella’s Vision of the Future
Upon defeating Miquella and Radahn, the player is shown a brief memory sequence where Miquella speaks to Radahn. In this moment, Miquella reaffirms his goal: to create a “gentler world” under his rule. This desire, while seemingly noble, raises complex moral questions. Miquella’s charm and allure are potent — so much so that they could strip away free will from those under his influence, creating a world of enforced peace.
This moment is crucial in understanding Miquella’s motivations. While he speaks of a better world, his methods are questionable. The fact that Radahn, originally a powerful figure in his own right, has been reduced to a tool for Miquella’s ascension speaks to the darker side of Miquella’s ambitions.
St. Trina and Miquella’s Duality
One of the most intriguing aspects of the DLC is the relationship between Miquella and St. Trina, a character heavily implied to be a discarded aspect of Miquella. St. Trina represents Miquella’s “abandoned Love,” and their presence in the narrative adds a layer of tragedy to Miquella’s story. At one point in the DLC, St. Trina begs the Tarnished to stop Miquella, warning that godhood would be a prison for him.
This revelation casts doubt on Miquella’s entire quest. Without the love and compassion that once defined him, Miquella’s rule could become cold and tyrannical. St. Trina’s plea suggests that Miquella’s ascension would result in a hollow victory, devoid of the kindness that once motivated his actions.
The Meaning Behind the Ending
The lack of a traditional ending leaves players with a sense of uncertainty. Unlike other FromSoftware DLCs, where the player’s actions are acknowledged by NPCs or the world itself, Shadow of the Erdtree ends on a quiet, introspective note. The Tarnished is left alone in the aftermath, with no clear direction or reward.
This ending may reflect the futility of the struggle for godhood in Elden Ring’s world. Miquella’s grand plans, like those of Marika and Radagon before him, ultimately fail to bring about lasting peace. The Tarnished, too, is left in limbo, with no clear indication of whether their efforts will lead to a better world.
The Implications for the Lands Between
In the base game, the Tarnished’s ultimate goal is to become Elden Lord. However, the events of Shadow of the Erdtree cast doubt on whether that title holds any real power or significance. Miquella’s failed quest for godhood suggests that the cycle of conflict and ascension is doomed to repeat, with no true resolution in sight.
The DLC also raises questions about the future of the Lands Between. With Miquella defeated and Radahn’s soul used in a twisted ritual, the power vacuum left by their absence could lead to further chaos. The Tarnished may have stopped one threat, but the Greater Will’s influence still looms large, and the question of who will shape the next age remains open.
Conclusion
The ending of Shadow of the Erdtree leaves much up to interpretation. Miquella’s dream of a gentler world is shattered, and the Tarnished is left to ponder the consequences of their actions. In true FromSoftware fashion, the DLC offers no easy answers, instead inviting players to reflect on the nature of power, ambition, and sacrifice.
The lack of closure may be frustrating for some, but it’s a hallmark of the Soulsborne series. Much like the base game’s multiple endings, Shadow of the Erdtree resists offering a definitive conclusion, instead leaving players with lingering doubts and unanswered questions. Whether Miquella’s vision would have led to a better world or a deeper tyranny is left for the player to decide.
Ultimately, Shadow of the Erdtree expands the lore of Elden Ring without resolving its central conflicts. The Tarnished’s journey continues, but the future of the Lands Between remains as uncertain as ever.
