Elden Ring could be getting a lot bigger with its highly anticipated Shadow of the Erdtree DLC. The open-world RPG is already considered one of this generation's finest fantasy games, but developer FromSoftware seems to have even more stories in store for fans. One location that is probably returning in Shadow of the Erdtree is the Roundtable Hold, a larger hub populated with an odd cast of characters who offer services and help carry the mysterious, purposefully cryptic story forward. Located just outside the Lands Between, the Hold provides a place of respite for wandering Elden Ring players, but there is potential for improvements as well.
While not necessarily lacking in size, the Roundtable Hold is a bit narrow in its passageways and rooms lined with unique NPCs. This is partially a product of good design, it doesn't take too long for anyone to find their favorite vendor or quest-giver. It's also atmospheric, the central roundtable glittering gold like one of many Sites of Lost Grace in Elden Ring's overworld. If its story becomes any longer, however, the DLC might have to consider touching up the Roundtable Hold with a few changes to support new content.
A Larger Story Hub in Elden Ring's Shadow of the Erdtree
Like other hubs in FromSoft games, the Roundtable Hold is a magical place that holds players' quests together as the game progresses. That, in particular, might be a hook that would tie the Hold to FromSoft's upcoming DLC, with the imposing, magical Erdtree presumably being a key theme that may see further exploration. With a larger Roundtable Hold, FromSoft can still introduce more NPCs who can continue the story under a similar structure as the base game. It's possible that Shadow of the Erdtree could insert cut story content from Elden Ring, so the existing hub would naturally be a good option for maintaining a seamless experience between the main campaign and DLC.
Some rooms are built around special NPCs, while other rooms remain empty until later points in the story. In one hallway, players will find Hewg, a Misbegotten blacksmith who provides services at his forge. After meeting Roderika in Limgrave, she eventually moves into the Hold near Hewg - uncertain of her future in the Lands Between. Hewg then assists by training Roderika at the end of her questline, so players can upgrade their Ash summons with her new spirit-tuning abilities. Interactions like these are not only rewarding but also extend encounters from the open world to the hub, which is something that Shadow of the Erdtree's story and characters might be able to expand upon.
Shadow of the Erdtree doesn't have to make the hub crowded to present a good story, but the DLC may have a chance to make it feel a bit less empty. To bring extra life into the Roundtable Hold, FromSoft can either integrate more relevant characters or bring more customization to it, allowing players to express themselves like many of Elden Ring's best armor types. Different in-game factions already have their own styles, and with life in the Lands Between being as bleak as it is, the hub could be a great spot for players to adorn rooms with collectible themes, treasures, or trophies.
Combat in Elden Ring is often hard-fought, and if Shadow of the Erdtree is aiming to give the game a longer shelf life, there's potential in making those memories a part of the Roundtable Hold. Most of the layout is already set, so unless there are some unexpected renovations in order, then FromSoft can make one of its best locations even more content-heavy at the very least.
Elden Ring is available now for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
