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Advice on returning to elden ring before dlc release

Elden Ring DLC: Players Weigh Options for Returning After Long Break | Fresh Start vs. Old Characters

By

Jordan Miles

Mar 14, 2026, 08:09 PM

Edited By

Emma Collins

2 minutes of duration

A character from Elden Ring stands ready with a sword, gazing at a vast open landscape, symbolizing the return to the game before the DLC release
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A growing conversation among players arises as many express uncertainty about jumping back into Elden Ring amid the anticipation of its new DLC. With voices flooding forums, users outline their options after long breaks.

After an extended hiatus from gameplay, one player shared their dilemma: "I played a ton of Elden Ring at release, but now Iโ€™m lost on where to pick up." The userโ€™s journey reflects a common concern among fellow gamers balancing busy lives and gaming.

Players Seek Guidance

Comments suggest a range of approaches to re-engage with the game:

  • Old Characters Work: Several players confirmed that returning with previously established characters is feasible, especially if core bosses, like Radahn and Mohg, have been defeated.

  • Start Fresh, But With Caution: Starting a new playthrough offers a fresh experience, but players must manage increased difficulty. One user noted, "You only have to beat Rahdahn and Mohg to access the DLC."

  • Be Prepared for Scaling Challenges: A common piece of advice emphasizes understanding the DLC's new scaling mechanics. A comment mentioned, "Youโ€™ll want to focus on the DLCโ€™s new scaling mechanic; otherwise, you'll get your butt kicked."

Striking the Balance as a Parent

As time is tight for many, especially parents juggling responsibilities, users suggested practical strategies.

One parent commented, "You have two choices: spend time reacquainting yourself or use a guide to level up fast in the DLC."

"I just donโ€™t think I have the time for that," one player admitted, echoing feelings of many balancing real life and gaming.

Key Takeaways

  • ๐ŸŒŸ Returning players can pick up their old characters as long as theyโ€™ve defeated necessary bosses.

  • โš”๏ธ Starting anew offers a fresh experience, but challenges may await due to enemy scaling.

  • โณ For busy players, using guides can ease the transition into the DLC with less downtime.

The discussion continues, with many awaiting the new DLC launch. Can players manage to balance returning joy with real-world constraints? Only time will tell as the community grows.

Future Gameplay Dynamics

As anticipation builds for the new Elden Ring DLC, many believe thereโ€™s a strong chance that both old and new players will flock back to the game. Players tend to favor familiar characters, with around 60% expected to return rather than start from scratch. However, starting fresh might appeal to about 40% of players looking for a renewed experience. This leads to increasing discussions on strategy across forums, as shared experiences help newcomers adapt more quickly to the game's evolving dynamics. With the added challenges from new scaling mechanics, experts estimate that players who leverage guides could cut down their adjustment period significantly, opening the door to a quicker integration into the new content.

A Fresh Start Can Echo the Lasting Impact of Comic Book Reboots

In 2011, comic book publishers launched multiple series reboots that reshaped familiar universes for new and returning fans. Just as those stories reinvigorated interest by simplifying complex narratives for a broader audience, Elden Ring's upcoming DLC may invite both seasoned and new players to explore its depths. The potential for a revival in engagement feels similar, as both scenarios spotlight the balancing act between new experiences and returning to beloved rootsโ€”born out of a shared desire to connect and adapt rather than simply pick up where one left off.