Exploring the Best Progression Routes in Elden Ring and Shadow of the Erdtree

Elden Ring’s main game and accompanying Shadow of the Erdtree DLC feature vast open worlds and complex progression, making it one of the most challenging Soulsborne titles. In their latest expansion, FromSoftware has ensured that players must thoroughly explore the world to obtain their desired items.

Despite the influx of new players, the vastness and intricate history of The Lands Between may be daunting for some. To assist in this, we have created a progression guide to aid in your exploration of the world, complete with recommended levels for each region.

Best Routes & Recommended Levels in Base Game

Region	Recommended level	Weapon upgrade level
West Limgrave	Level 1-15	Upgrades +0
East Limgrave	Level 10+	Upgrades +1
South Limgrave/Weeping Peninsula	Level 15-20	Upgrades +2
Stormveil Castle	Level 30+	Upgrades +3
Liurnia of the Lakes	Level 40	Upgrades +4
Academy of Raya Lucaria	Level 45+	Upgrades +5
South Caelid	Level 55+	Upgrades +5
Altus Plateau	Level 65+	Upgrades +11
Mt. Gelmir/Volcano Manor	Level 70+	Upgrades +13
Leyndell, Royal Capital	Level 85+	Upgrades +15
Forbidden Lands/Mountaintops of the Giants	Level 100+	Upgrades +22
Consecrated Snowfields	Level 110+	Upgrades +24
Miquella’s Haligtree	Level 120+	Upgrades +25
Crumbling Farum Azula	Level 120+	Upgrades +25
Leyndell, Ashen Capital	Level 130+	Upgrades +25

As you embark on your adventure in Elden Ring, the starting point will be Limgrave, specifically the western region. While you may be tempted to immediately venture off to other areas of the map, it is recommended to stay in this region until you have leveled up, and then make your way to the eastern Mistwood region.

Elden Ring’s map is massive and can make players overwhelmed.

You may encounter various subterranean areas, including Nokron, Nokstella, Deeproot Depths, Lake of Rot, and Moghwyn Mausoleum. These locations play a crucial role in the game’s plot, so it is important to follow the list above and take your time rather than rushing through them.

Exploration Tips

One common issue that players encounter in Elden Ring is entering battles while being under-leveled, often due to rushing through areas. It is important to note that becoming over-leveled is not a concern, but being under-leveled can definitely cause problems. Therefore, it is recommended to take the time to grind a few levels before tackling challenging areas.

After completing your studies at the Academy of Raya Lucaria, your next destination will be Leyndell, the Royal Capital located in Altus Plateau. Make sure to also visit Mt Gelmir and finish the Volcano Manor questline to obtain the powerful Blasphemous Blade, one of the top weapons in the game.

Once you have finished all necessary tasks in this region, proceed to the Royal Capital to complete it and reach the Mountaintops of the Giants. Be prepared for tough enemies in this area, so be sure to increase your Vigor level.

Best DLC Progression Route & Recommended Levels

Region	Recommended Scadutree Blessing level
Gravesite Path	Level 1-3
Belurat, Tower Settlement	Level 3-6
Castle Ensis	Level 6-8
Scadu Altus	Level 8-10
Shadow Keep (Storehouse)	Level 10-12
Cerulean Coast & Stone Coffin Fissure	Level 11-12
Jagged Peak	Level 12-13
Ancient Ruins of Rauh	Level 13+
Abyssal Woods	Level 14+
Shadow Keep (complete exploration)	Level 15+
Ancient Ruins of Rauh (complete exploration)	Level 16+
Enir Science	Level 17-20

Just like the base game, DLC map is huge and confusing at the same time.

Similarly to the main game, the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC also features some incredibly twisted areas. With the addition of Scadutree Fragments, the leveling system has been completely altered, allowing players to seek out these fragments at various locations.

DLC tips

“Collecting Scadutree Blessings is crucial for leveling up in the DLC, as these fragments will enhance your strength. While navigating the complex map, it is possible to venture into random areas. However, it is advisable to leave areas where you are under-leveled.”

For instance, it is entirely feasible to make it to both the Cerulean Coast and Stone Coffin Fissure before even entering Shadow Keep in the DLC, although you may find yourself greatly outnumbered by foes in that vicinity. Likewise, it is also feasible to confront the primary boss of Shadow Keep earlier than anticipated.

Therefore, it is important to ensure that you are adequately prepared before venturing into uncharted territories in the DLC, as some of them can prove to be extremely challenging for players who are not at an appropriate level.

Exploration is a significant element of Elden Ring’s gameplay, and FromSoftware has taken care to provide players with top-notch weapons to overcome the game’s challenging bosses. These powerful weapons can be found by thoroughly exploring the map.