Elden Ring’s “The Forsaken Hollows” DLC Announced: A Beloved Dark Souls Colossus Returns

The world of Elden Ring is set to expand once more, as FromSoftware has officially announced “The Forsaken Hollows,” a highly anticipated downloadable content expansion that promises to reignite the fires of our Tarnished adventures. Revealed during a captivating presentation last night, this new chapter in the Lands Between is slated for a December 4th release, bringing with it not only new challenges and mysteries but also the formidable return of a beloved Dark Souls bumkicker. This announcement has sent ripples of excitement through the gaming community, eager to once again test their mettle against the masterfully crafted, unforgiving environments and colossal adversaries that have become synonymous with the Elden Ring experience.

Our sources confirm that FromSoftware is firmly on track to deliver this substantial DLC by March 2026, with “The Forsaken Hollows” being the vanguard of this upcoming content wave. The revelation at the recent PlayStation State of Play event showcased a tantalizing glimpse into what awaits players, hinting at a narrative that delves deeper into the lore of the Lands Between and introduces a new tier of formidable opposition. The prospect of encountering a familiar, yet perhaps more terrifying, boss from the annals of Dark Souls is a particularly electrifying detail, suggesting a direct nod to the franchise’s rich history and a potential reunion with an adversary many have either vanquished or been repeatedly defeated by.

Unveiling “The Forsaken Hollows”: A Deep Dive into the New Elden Ring DLC

The moniker “The Forsaken Hollows” itself conjures images of desolation, forgotten secrets, and the pervasive sense of dread that FromSoftware so expertly cultivates. This DLC is not merely an addition of new areas; it is an invitation to explore the shadowed corners of the Lands Between, places perhaps left untouched by the Erdtree’s grace, or worse, actively shunned. We anticipate that the narrative will weave seamlessly into the existing lore, offering new perspectives on the cataclysmic events that shaped the world and the motivations of its tormented inhabitants. The developers have a proven track record of crafting intricate storylines that reward diligent exploration and keen observation, and “The Forsaken Hollows” is poised to be no exception.

The announcement during the PlayStation State of Play was a masterclass in building anticipation. While specific details regarding the plot remain shrouded in mystery, the brief but impactful visuals presented were enough to ignite widespread speculation. We are led to believe that this expansion will introduce a new, expansive region to traverse, potentially expanding the map in ways we haven’t yet conceived. Given FromSoftware’s penchant for verticality and interconnected level design, we can only imagine the intricate pathways, hidden shortcuts, and treacherous vistas that await us within “The Forsaken Hollows.” The environmental storytelling, a hallmark of their previous titles, will undoubtedly be a key component, with every crumbling edifice and desolate landscape whispering tales of bygone eras and the tragedies that befell them.

The Return of a Dark Souls Icon: A Familiar Nemesis Reimagined

Perhaps the most electrifying piece of information regarding “The Forsaken Hollows” is the confirmed return of a beloved Dark Souls bumkicker. For veterans of the Soulsborne series, this statement alone is enough to send shivers down their spines and rekindle memories of arduous battles and hard-won victories. The phrase “beloved bumkicker” is a tongue in cheek acknowledgement of bosses who, despite their challenging nature, have become iconic figures within the Soulsborne pantheon. We are left to ponder which legendary foe might be making their reappearance. Could it be the relentlessly aggressive Artorias the Abysswalker, whose valiant stand against the encroaching darkness is etched into gaming history? Or perhaps the tragic, yet powerful, Gwyn, Lord of Cinder, whose fiery reign ultimately led to the age of fire’s twilight?

The implications of this return are profound. A beloved Dark Souls boss returning in Elden Ring suggests a direct thematic link between the games, perhaps hinting at a shared cosmic struggle or a cyclical nature to the world’s destruction and rebirth. It also presents an opportunity for FromSoftware to reimagine these iconic figures with the advancements in technology and gameplay mechanics that Elden Ring offers. We can expect this returning adversary to be more formidable than ever, with new attack patterns, enhanced move sets, and perhaps even a drastically altered arena that plays into Elden Ring’s unique combat and environmental interactions. The sheer challenge of facing a boss who has already tested countless players, but now with the added layer of Elden Ring’s mechanics, is an irresistible prospect for the dedicated player base.

Potential Candidates for the Returning Boss

While FromSoftware remains tight-lipped about the specific identity of this returning terror, the community has already begun a fervent wave of speculation. Let us explore some of the most plausible and exciting possibilities:

• Artorias the Abysswalker: A fan favorite for his tragic backstory and intense combat, Artorias embodies the heroic yet ultimately doomed warrior. His return could involve him being corrupted further by the abyss, or perhaps a spectral echo of his former glory. The swift, acrobatic nature of his attacks would translate incredibly well to Elden Ring’s combat system, potentially enhanced by Elden Ring’s spirit ashes and Ashes of War mechanics.

• Gael, Slave Knight: From the Ashes of Ariandel DLC for Dark Souls III, Gael’s relentless pursuit of the Dark Soul and his eventual transformation into a god of the Dark Soul made him one of the most memorable final bosses in the series. His sheer power and the cosmic scale of his final form could be an awe inspiring addition to Elden Ring. Imagine facing the blood-soaked, unhinged Gael in the open world of Elden Ring, with the dynamic camera and environmental hazards adding new layers of peril.

• Ornstein and Smough: Though a duo, their iconic status as a seemingly insurmountable obstacle in Anor Londo makes them prime candidates. Their return, perhaps in a new, twisted form or as a solitary guardian, would be a significant test for any Tarnished. The challenge of facing one after defeating the other, a mechanic that defined their original encounter, could be reinterpreted in fascinating ways within Elden Ring’s combat system, perhaps with environmental factors that aid or hinder the player during the fight.

• Nameless King: The stoic and immensely powerful King of the Storm, known for his devastating lightning attacks and the formidable King of the Storm mount. His return could signify a connection to ancient dragon lore within Elden Ring, or a new challenge tied to the primal forces of the world. The sheer scale and aggression of his attacks would be a perfect fit for the epic boss arenas Elden Ring is known for.

• Sister Friede: The deceptive and multi-phased battle against Sister Friede and Father Ariandel was a highlight of the Ringed City DLC. Her graceful yet deadly scythe attacks and her ability to turn invisible could be amplified with Elden Ring’s more dynamic combat, perhaps utilizing new status effects or environmental spells. The chilling atmosphere of her icy domain could also be brilliantly translated into a new Elden Ring locale.

The inclusion of any one of these legendary figures would be a masterstroke, serving as a potent draw for both new players and long-time fans of the Dark Souls franchise, bridging the gap between the two monumental action RPGs.

Key Features and Expected Content in “The Forsaken Hollows”

Beyond the tantalizing prospect of a returning boss, “The Forsaken Hollows” is expected to deliver a comprehensive package of new content, enriching the Elden Ring experience significantly. We can anticipate the introduction of:

A Vast New Region to Explore

FromSoftware is renowned for its meticulously crafted and expansive worlds. “The Forsaken Hollows” will undoubtedly introduce a new, sprawling geographical area to the Lands Between. Based on the title and the glimpses we’ve seen, this region may be characterized by:

• Desolate Landscapes: Expect environments steeped in decay and abandonment. Ruined fortresses, forgotten villages, and corrupted natural wonders are likely to populate this new area, each with its own unique environmental hazards and secrets.
• Intricate Dungeons and Catacombs: True to FromSoftware’s design philosophy, the new region will likely feature labyrinthine underground complexes, filled with cunning traps, hidden passages, and formidable foes. These areas will test players’ spatial awareness and their ability to manage limited resources.
• Unique Biomes: We may see the introduction of entirely new biome types not yet present in the base game. Imagine venturing into a region perpetually shrouded in mist, or an area warped by a forgotten, malevolent magic. The visual design and atmosphere will be paramount in establishing the distinct identity of “The Forsaken Hollows.”
• Environmental Storytelling: As always, the environment itself will tell a story. Players will need to piece together the history of this forsaken place through its ruins, skeletal remains, and subtle clues embedded within the landscape.

New Enemies and Challenges

To complement the new region, “The Forsaken Hollows” will feature an array of new enemies, each designed to push players to their limits. We anticipate:

• Unique Foe Archetypes: FromSoftware consistently introduces novel enemy designs. Expect new variations on familiar enemy types, as well as entirely new creatures with distinct attack patterns and resistances. These new foes will require players to adapt their strategies and learn new tells.
• Challenging Mini-Bosses: In addition to the main boss encounters, “The Forsaken Hollows” will likely be populated with formidable mini-bosses guarding important pathways or hidden treasures. These encounters will serve as crucial checkpoints for players progressing through the new content.
• Boss Mechanics and Phases: The introduction of a returning boss also suggests the potential for new mechanics and phases. FromSoftware excels at evolving their bosses, and we can expect a familiar face to be presented in a terrifyingly new light, utilizing Elden Ring’s expanded combat capabilities.

New Weapons, Armor, and Spells

No expansion from FromSoftware would be complete without a substantial influx of new gear and magical abilities. Players can look forward to discovering:

• Legendary Armaments: The new region will undoubtedly be a treasure trove of new weapons, ranging from colossal swords and intricate katanas to unique catalysts and shields. These weapons will likely possess new weapon skills (Ashes of War) or unique passive effects that can drastically alter combat strategies.
• Exquisite Armor Sets: Fashion Souls will rejoice with the addition of new armor sets, each with its own distinct aesthetic and defensive properties. These sets may also offer unique bonuses or resistances that can be crucial for overcoming specific challenges within “The Forsaken Hollows.”
• Potent Sorceries and Incantations: For those who favor the arcane arts, we expect a variety of new spells, including powerful sorceries, faith based incantations, and potentially even entirely new schools of magic. These new spells will offer fresh offensive and defensive options, encouraging experimentation with different builds.

Deepening Lore and Narrative Threads

The Lands Between are a rich tapestry of lore, and “The Forsaken Hollows” is an opportunity to delve even deeper. We anticipate that this DLC will:

• Expand Existing Lore: The narrative will likely shed light on previously unexplained aspects of the Elden Ring’s history, potentially connecting the events of the game to the older lore of Dark Souls in new and unexpected ways.
• Introduce New NPCs: As with previous expansions, “The Forsaken Hollows” is expected to feature new non player characters (NPCs). These characters may offer new quests, provide lore insights, or act as merchants and allies, adding to the dynamic of the world.
• Uncover Forgotten Histories: The “forsaken” nature of the hollows suggests a story of ostracization, rebellion, or a civilization that fell from grace. Players will be tasked with uncovering these hidden histories, piecing together a more complete picture of the Lands Between.

Elden Ring’s Continued Success and the Impact of “The Forsaken Hollows”

Elden Ring’s phenomenal success since its release has cemented its place as a modern classic in the action RPG genre. The game’s open-world design, challenging combat, and deep lore resonated with millions of players worldwide, earning it numerous Game of the Year awards and critical acclaim. The announcement of “The Forsaken Hollows” serves as a testament to FromSoftware’s continued commitment to supporting and expanding their critically acclaimed titles.

The decision to release DLC by March 2026, with “The Forsaken Hollows” dropping on December 4th, indicates a well-planned content roadmap that will keep players engaged for an extended period. This staggered release strategy allows for sustained community interest and provides ample opportunity for players to fully immerse themselves in the new content.

The return of a beloved Dark Souls bumkicker is particularly noteworthy. It bridges the gap between Elden Ring and its predecessors, offering a powerful nostalgic draw for long time fans. This inclusion is not just a fan service; it’s a strategic move to reintroduce the legacy of Dark Souls to a new generation of players who may have entered the FromSoftware fold with Elden Ring. It also allows for the re-contextualization of these iconic figures within a new gameplay paradigm, offering fresh challenges and interpretations.

We are confident that “The Forsaken Hollows” will not only meet but exceed the high expectations set by the base game. The meticulous attention to detail, the unparalleled world-building, and the signature challenging gameplay that FromSoftware is known for will undoubtedly be present in full force. This DLC represents a significant investment in the Elden Ring universe, promising an expansive and unforgettable journey for all Tarnished who dare to venture into the forgotten depths. The anticipation for December 4th is palpable, and the world awaits the unveiling of “The Forsaken Hollows” and the return of a legend.