Why Is Elden Ring Dlc Not Working? Elden Ring, the critically acclaimed action role-playing game developed by FromSoftware and published by Bandai Namco Entertainment, has captivated millions of players worldwide since its release in February 2022. The game’s expansive world, intricate lore, and challenging gameplay have left fans clamoring for more content. On June 21, 2024, their wishes were granted with the release of the highly anticipated expansion, Shadow of the Erdtree.
This expansive DLC promises to build upon the rich tapestry of the Lands Between, offering players new locations to explore, formidable bosses to conquer, and deeper insights into the game’s mysterious lore. However, as with any major software release, some players have encountered issues when attempting to access or play the new content. This article aims to explore the potential reasons why the Elden Ring DLC might not be working for some users and provide comprehensive troubleshooting steps to resolve these issues.
Common Reasons for DLC Not Working:
There are several reasons why players might experience difficulties with the Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree DLC. Understanding these potential causes is the first step in resolving any issues:
a) Installation problems:
- Incomplete or corrupted download
- Insufficient storage space
- Incompatibility with the base game version
b) Account and purchase verification issues:
- DLC not properly linked to the user’s account
- Purchase not fully processed or recognized by the platform
c) Game version mismatches:
- Base game not updated to the latest version
- DLC version incompatible with the installed game version
d) Platform-specific issues:
- Console or PC not meeting minimum system requirements
- Platform-specific bugs or glitches
e) Regional availability and time zone differences:
- DLC not yet available in the player’s region
- Release time misunderstandings due to time zone differences
f) Server-related problems:
- Overloaded servers due to high demand at launch
- Maintenance or unexpected downtime
g) Software conflicts:
- Interference from antivirus or firewall software
- Conflicts with other installed mods or third-party software
Pre-Troubleshooting Checklist:
Before diving into specific troubleshooting steps, it’s important to verify some basic information:
a) Confirm the release date and time:
Ensure that the DLC has actually been released in your region. Remember, Shadow of the Erdtree was released on June 21, 2024, but the exact time may vary depending on your time zone.
b) Check official announcements:
Visit the official Elden Ring website, social media channels, or gaming platform (e.g., Steam, PlayStation Network, Xbox Live) for any announcements regarding known issues or delays.
c) Verify your purchase:
Confirm that you have actually purchased the DLC and that the transaction was completed successfully.
d) Check your internet connection:
Ensure that you have a stable internet connection, as this is crucial for downloading and verifying the DLC.
e) Restart your system:
Sometimes, a simple restart of your gaming system can resolve many issues.
Troubleshooting Steps for PC Users:
If you’re playing Elden Ring on a PC and experiencing issues with the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, try the following steps:
a) Verify game files:
- On Steam: Right-click Elden Ring in your library, select Properties, go to Local Files, and click “Verify integrity of game files.”
- On other platforms: Check the platform’s documentation for similar file verification processes.
b) Update your graphics drivers:
Ensure your GPU drivers are up to date, as outdated drivers can cause compatibility issues with new content.
c) Check for Windows updates:
Make sure your operating system is up to date, as this can resolve various compatibility issues.
d) Disable antivirus temporarily:
Some antivirus software may interfere with game files or updates. Temporarily disable your antivirus and try accessing the DLC again.
e) Clear download cache:
On Steam, go to Settings > Downloads and click “Clear Download Cache.” This can resolve issues with incomplete or corrupted downloads.
f) Reinstall the game and DLC:
If all else fails, try uninstalling and reinstalling both the base game and the DLC. This can resolve issues caused by corrupted files.
Troubleshooting Steps for Console Users:
For those playing on PlayStation or Xbox consoles, consider the following steps:
a) Check for system updates:
Ensure your console’s system software is up to date.
b) Restore licenses:
On PlayStation, go to Settings > Account Management > Restore Licenses. On Xbox, try signing out and signing back into your account.
c) Clear console cache:
Clearing your console’s cache can resolve various issues. The process varies by console, so consult your system’s documentation.
d) Rebuild database (PlayStation):
In safe mode, select the option to rebuild the database. This can resolve issues with corrupted data.
e) Power cycle your console:
Fully power down your console, unplug it for a few minutes, then plug it back in and restart.
f) Re-download the DLC:
If the DLC seems to be missing or corrupted, try deleting it and re-downloading.
Platform-Specific Issues and Solutions:
Different gaming platforms may have unique issues and solutions:
a) Steam:
- Issue: DLC not appearing in library
Solution: Restart Steam, or go to the store page and manually initiate the download - Issue: “Content still encrypted” error
Solution: Wait for the official unlock time, or verify your system time is correct
b) PlayStation Network:
- Issue: “Cannot use the content” error
Solution: Restore licenses or ensure your console is set as your primary PS4/PS5 - Issue: DLC not downloading automatically
Solution: Manually start the download from your library or the store page
c) Xbox Live:
- Issue: DLC not recognized by the game
Solution: Hard reset your console (hold power button for 10 seconds) and reinstall the DLC - Issue: “Do you own this game?” error
Solution: Sign out and sign back into your Xbox Live account
Dealing with Server-Related Issues:
Launch days for popular games and DLCs often come with server-related challenges:
a) Server overload:
If servers are overwhelmed, you may experience difficulties downloading or accessing the DLC. In this case, patience is key. Try again later when server load has decreased.
b) Scheduled maintenance:
Check official channels for any announcements about scheduled maintenance that might be affecting access to the DLC.
c) Regional rollouts:
Some releases are staggered by region. Confirm that the DLC has indeed been released in your area.
Contacting Support:
If you’ve tried all relevant troubleshooting steps and are still unable to access or play the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, it may be time to contact support:
a) Game support:
Reach out to FromSoftware or Bandai Namco’s customer support for game-specific issues.
b) Platform support:
Contact Steam, PlayStation, or Xbox support for platform-related problems.
c) Retailer support:
If you purchased a DLC code from a retailer, contact them if the code isn’t working.
When contacting support, be sure to provide:
- Your platform and system specifications
- A detailed description of the issue
- Any error messages you’ve encountered
- Steps you’ve already taken to try to resolve the problem
Community Resources:
The Elden Ring community can be a valuable resource for troubleshooting:
a) Official forums:
Check the official Elden Ring forums for known issues and community-sourced solutions.
b) Reddit:
The Elden Ring subreddit often has megathreads for new releases where players share issues and solutions.
c) Discord:
Join Elden Ring Discord servers to get real-time help from other players.
d) Steam discussions:
If you’re on PC, the Steam community discussions can be a helpful resource for PC-specific issues.
Preventing Future Issues:
To minimize the chance of encountering similar problems with future DLCs or updates:
a) Keep your system updated:
Regularly update your gaming system, whether it’s a PC or console.
b) Maintain adequate storage:
Ensure you always have sufficient free space on your system for new downloads and updates.
c) Use official sources:
Always purchase and download games and DLCs from official sources to avoid compatibility issues.
d) Stay informed:
Follow official Elden Ring channels to stay updated on release information and known issues.
Conclusion:
The release of Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree is an exciting event for fans of the game, promising to expand the already rich world of the Lands Between. While encountering issues with accessing or playing new content can be frustrating, most problems have solutions. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this article, players should be able to resolve most common issues and dive into the new adventures that await them.
Remember that patience is often key, especially during the initial launch period when servers may be under heavy load. If problems persist, don’t hesitate to reach out to official support channels or engage with the community for assistance. With perseverance, you’ll soon be exploring the new realms, facing formidable foes, and unraveling the mysteries that Shadow of the Erdtree has to offer.
As the Elden Ring community continues to grow and evolve, players can look forward to not only overcoming in-game challenges but also working together to ensure everyone can enjoy this expansive new content. May your journey through the Shadow of the Erdtree be as rewarding as it is challenging, Tarnished!
