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"OMG, Have You Seen How Easy Elden Ring Is Now with Thrusting Shields?"

Elden Ring's new Thrusting Shields make Shadow of the Erdtree difficulty trivial, players say (Via: eurogamer.net)

Image via: eurogamer.net - Elden Ring's new Thrusting Shields make Shadow of the Erdtree difficulty trivial, players say

Elden Ring's Shadow of the Erdtree DLC: Players React to New Thrusting Shields

Elden Ring has unleashed its Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, introducing the Thrusting Shields weapon type, which has sparked quite a debate among players.


What's New in the DLC?

In the DLC's gripping gameplay trailer, viewers witness the player character soaring through the air, armed with a spiked shield. These new weapons are none other than the Thrusting Shields, coming in two varieties: the Dueling Shield and the Carian Thrusting Shield.


A Closer Look at Thrusting Shields

Both shields are equipped with a Shield Strike skill that allows the user to attack with the shield itself. The combination of attacking and blocking simultaneously has led some players to argue that these shields are nearly "absolutely busted."


Player Reactions

The introduction of these shields has led to mixed reactions. While some appreciate the creative addition, others feel that it makes the game's difficulty somewhat trivial.



Elden Ring DLC: Shadow of the Erdtree - A Game-Changer or Game-Breaker?

Elden Ring enthusiasts have been buzzing ever since the introduction of the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC. The latest expansion features new weaponry that is turning heads—and not always in a good way. Chief among these additions are the Thrusting Shields, which many players argue are so powerful that they might just be breaking the game.


The Hype Around Thrusting Shields

From the moment I saw the gameplay trailer, I was intrigued. Picture this: your character leaping through the air, wielding a spiked shield that doubles as both attack and defense. We're talking two specific types here: the Dueling Shield and the Carian Thrusting Shield. These aren’t just cosmetic upgrades; they bring a whole new dynamic to the battlefield.


What Makes Them So Special?

Both shields come equipped with the Shield Strike skill, allowing players to attack and block simultaneously. It sounds awesome on paper, but in reality, it raises some significant concerns. Why? Because this ability to attack while blocking fundamentally alters the game's balance.


Are They Busted?

A growing number of players claim that Thrusting Shields are "absolutely busted." From what I've seen and read, these shields can make the game's challenging moments almost trivial. Blocking and attacking without the usual penalties or risks? It’s like giving players a cheat code wrapped in a DLC gift box. For more details, you can check out this handy guide.


The Balance Debate

Gaming communities thrive on balance—it's what makes bosses intimidating, PvP duels thrilling, and rewards hard-earned. Thrusting Shields potentially disrupt this equilibrium. On one hand, they offer a fresh, exhilarating way to play the game. On the other, they might take away from the sense of accomplishment that comes from overcoming genuinely challenging foes.


Potential Fixes and Community Feedback

So, should FromSoftware nerf these shields? Many players seem to think so. Developers could adjust the shields' parameters to maintain the game's difficulty curve while still offering a unique playstyle. A possible tweak could include reducing their attack power or increasing stamina consumption for the Shield Strike skill.


Checking In With the Developers

There's no denying that the developers at FromSoftware have a keen ear for community feedback. If enough players voice their opinions, changes could very well be on the horizon. After all, player satisfaction is key for the longevity of any game.


Final Thoughts

Elden Ring's Shadow of the Erdtree DLC brought an exciting and somewhat controversial addition to the table in the form of Thrusting Shields. Whether you see them as an innovative weapon type or a game-breaking fiasco, it's clear they have made a significant impact. Will they stay as they are, or will we see some balancing patches soon? Stay tuned, folks.


For more on this topic, be sure to check out this article on Eurogamer.



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