Returning to Lands Between in Shadow of the Erdtree

Elden Ring’s Shadow of the Erdtree expansion introduces the vast Land of Shadow, a separate realm accessible after defeating key bosses like Starscourge Radahn and Mohg, Lord of Blood. Players often wonder if they can return to the original Lands Between once they’ve entered this new area. The answer is yes—travel between the two regions is straightforward via the game’s fast travel system, treating the DLC as an extension of the base map.

Understanding the Dual-Map System

The Land of Shadow operates on its own dedicated map, distinct from the Lands Between, much like the surface and underground layers in the base game. This separation enhances immersion but requires a simple menu adjustment to navigate. Upon entering the DLC through Mohgwyn Palace, you’ll arrive at the Gravesite Plain Site of Grace. From there, exploration begins, but the ability to fast travel back remains unlocked immediately.

Fast travel functions identically to the base game: rest at any Site of Grace (excluding boss arenas or scripted restrictions) to open the map and select destinations. The key difference is switching between map views—Lands Between and Realm of Shadow (also called Land of Shadow)—using platform-specific controls.

Step-by-Step Fast Travel Guide

Here’s how to switch regions and teleport freely:

1. Open the Map: Rest at a Site of Grace and select the map icon. On PlayStation, press the touchpad; Xbox uses the View button; PC uses G or the default key.
2. Switch Map Regions: Look at the bottom of the screen for map tabs (up to 6 options). Use L1/LB/Z to cycle left or R1/RB to cycle right until you reach the desired map—Lands Between or Realm of Shadow.
3. Select Site of Grace: Highlight a discovered grace with the left stick/mouse. Press confirm (X/A/Enter) to teleport instantly.
4. Roundtable Hold Shortcut: From the map or grace menu, press Triangle/Y/X (Square/X/Z on some setups) to jump directly to the Roundtable Hold.

This process works bidirectionally. Discover more Sites of Grace in the Land of Shadow to expand your fast travel network—start with Gravesite Plain and branch out.

Note: Controls may vary slightly based on custom bindings. Check the bottom HUD prompts for in-game confirmation.

Why Return to the Lands Between?

Returning isn’t just optional—it’s essential for optimal progression. The Roundtable Hold remains the central hub for:

• Weapon Upgrades: Smithing Master Hewg upgrades DLC weapons using standard Smithing Stones, unavailable in high quantities within the expansion.
• Spirit Ash Tuning: Roderika enhances summons, crucial for tough Shadow bosses.
• Remembrance Duplication: Convert new Remembrances at Walking Mausoleums or Enia for powerful weapons/spells not craftable in the DLC.
• Inventory Management: Store excess runes, sell items to merchants, or buy consumables scarce in the Land of Shadow.

Additionally, base game resources like certain talismans or arrows might be needed before tackling DLC challenges.

Realm of Shadow Buffs and Travel Impacts

The Land of Shadow grants Scadutree Blessings, stacking buffs from fragments that boost attack/defense exclusively in the DLC (and vice versa for base game Revered Spirit Ashes). These activate automatically upon entry and deactivate when leaving—no manual toggling required. Plan short trips back for upgrades to avoid losing momentum.

Early Land of Shadow Exploration Tips

Before heavy back-and-forth travel, establish a foothold:

• From Gravesite Plain, head slightly left across the field to reveal more graces.
• Stick to paths initially to avoid ambushes from shadow enemies.
• Collect initial Scadutree Fragments near churches and gravesites for immediate power spikes.

Progress north along dirt paths, staying right for items like Larval Tears (night-only pickup).

Common Travel Myths Debunked

Advanced Strategies for Multi-Realm Play

Resource Farming Loops: Farm runes in Mohgwyn Palace (base), return to Shadow for bosses, upgrade at Roundtable. Repeat.

Build Optimization: Test DLC weapons in base Limgrave, refine in Shadow. Use fast travel for quick A/B testing.

Mount Usage: Torrent works seamlessly in both realms—summon post-travel.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Preparing for Seamless Adventures

Mastering travel elevates your Elden Ring experience, blending base and DLC worlds fluidly. Prioritize grace discovery, strategic returns for upgrades, and balanced blessing collection. The Shadow awaits, but the Lands Between are always a fast travel away.