Elden Ring’s major expansion, Shadow of the Erdtree, has sold over 10 million copies worldwide, marking a phenomenal achievement in DLC history with an attach rate of approximately 30% to the base game’s 30 million units.
The Power of Attach Rates in Gaming Expansions
Attach rate measures the percentage of base game owners who purchase add-on content, serving as a key indicator of player satisfaction and content value. For Shadow of the Erdtree, this 30% figure means nearly one-third of Elden Ring players invested in the expansion, a testament to FromSoftware’s compelling storytelling and challenging gameplay.
This metric goes beyond raw sales, highlighting sustained interest post-launch. High attach rates often signal expansions that feel essential, extending the core experience without alienating fans. In competitive markets, such numbers position developers for sequels and spin-offs.
Comparing DLC Titans: Elden Ring vs. Industry Benchmarks
Shadow of the Erdtree’s performance stacks up impressively against giants like CD Projekt Red’s offerings. Cyberpunk 2077’s Phantom Liberty expansion matched this 30% attach rate, with 10 million sales against the base game’s 30 million by mid-period.
The Witcher 3 expansions, Hearts of Stone and Blood & Wine, achieved 22% and 24% respectively by 2024, figures now eclipsed by Elden Ring’s DLC. These comparisons underscore FromSoftware’s edge in delivering must-have content.
| Expansion | Base Game Sales | DLC Sales | Attach Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shadow of the Erdtree | 30M | 10M | 30% |
| Phantom Liberty (Cyberpunk 2077) | 30M | 10M | 30% |
| Hearts of Stone (Witcher 3) | N/A | N/A | 22% |
| Blood & Wine (Witcher 3) | N/A | N/A | 24% |
Nightreign Emerges as a Surprise Hit
Alongside the DLC milestone, the standalone co-op survival game Elden Ring Nightreign has shipped over 5 million units since its May release. This multiplayer roguelite, set in the Elden Ring universe, peaked at 313K concurrent Steam players and maintains strong engagement with recent highs of 49K.
- Very Positive Steam reviews reflect player enthusiasm for co-op mechanics.
- Rapid sales pace suggests Bandai Namco’s franchise momentum.
- Expands Elden Ring lore into fresh survival gameplay.
FromSoftware’s Formula for Franchise Domination
FromSoftware’s success stems from meticulous world-building, punishing yet fair difficulty, and innovative combat. Elden Ring’s 2022 Game of the Year status set high expectations, which Shadow of the Erdtree met with new areas, weapons, spells, and armor.
Nightreign innovates with co-op survival elements, drawing core fans into multiplayer without diluting single-player purity. Combined sales approach 15 million for these titles alone, fueling speculation on Elden Ring 2 development.
What Makes Shadow of the Erdtree Stand Out
Released in June 2024, the expansion introduces the Realm of Shadow, a vast land brimming with formidable foes and deep lore ties to the base game. Players explore immersive zones packed with challenges that demand mastery of new mechanics.
Key additions include:
- Diverse weapon arsenals for build experimentation.
- Expanded spell systems enhancing magic viability.
- Armor sets complementing tactical depth.
Critics and players praise its scale, rivaling standalone titles while integrating seamlessly.
Bandai Namco’s Strategic Wins
Publisher Bandai Namco announced these milestones, emphasizing global reach across platforms. The dual success reinforces Elden Ring as a commercial powerhouse, with DLC and spin-off sales amplifying base game longevity.
This attach rate excellence positions FromSoftware to rival established RPG giants, potentially influencing future pricing and release strategies in the industry.
Player Impact and Community Growth
These sales reflect booming community activity. Forums buzz with build discussions, boss strategies, and Nightreign co-op runs. High concurrent players indicate enduring appeal, even years post-base launch.
For newcomers, the expansion’s accessibility via base ownership lowers barriers, while veterans appreciate escalated challenges. This balance drives word-of-mouth growth.
Future Implications for Soulslike Expansions
Shadow of the Erdtree’s metrics could redefine DLC expectations. Developers may prioritize expansive content to hit similar attach rates, shifting from cosmetic packs to narrative-heavy additions.
Nightreign’s performance hints at spin-off viability, blending roguelite and co-op trends with proven IP. Expect more hybrid titles from FromSoftware-inspired studios.
SEO-Optimized FAQs
What is the attach rate for Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree?
The DLC boasts a 30% attach rate, with 10 million sales against the base game’s 30 million units.
How does Shadow of the Erdtree compare to Cyberpunk 2077 DLC?
It matches Phantom Liberty’s 30% attach rate exactly, both hitting 10 million sales on 30 million base copies.
What is Elden Ring Nightreign?
A standalone co-op survival roguelite in the Elden Ring world, selling 5 million copies since May launch with strong Steam peaks.
Has Shadow of the Erdtree surpassed Witcher 3 expansions?
Yes, its 30% rate exceeds Hearts of Stone (22%) and Blood & Wine (24%).
Is Elden Ring 2 in development?
Not confirmed, but massive sales success makes it highly likely.
References
References
- At 10 million copies sold, Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree has one of the highest attach rates in DLC history — GamesRadar. 2026 (approx). https://www.gamesradar.com/games/action-rpg/at-10-million-copies-sold-elden-ring-shadow-of-the-erdtree-has-one-of-the-highest-attach-rates-in-dlc-history-rivalling-cd-projekt-reds-sterling-run-with-the-witcher-3-and-cyberpunk-2077/
- Elden Ring’s DLC has moved over 10 million copies — PC Gamer. 2026 (approx). https://www.pcgamer.com/games/rpg/elden-rings-dlc-has-moved-over-10-million-copies-and-nightreigns-already-on-5-million-sold/
- Elden Ring Nightreign and Shadow of the Erdtree have sold 5 and 10 million copies — DSOGaming. 2026 (approx). https://www.dsogaming.com/news/elden-ring-nightreign-and-shadow-of-the-erdtree-have-sold-5-and-10-million-copies-respectively/
- ELDEN RING Games Surpass 10M and 5M Milestones — Bandai Namco Entertainment. 2026-07-24 (inferred). https://www.bandainamcoent.com/news/elden-ring-games-surpass-10m-and-5m-milestones

