Elden Ring DLC's Hidden Berserk Reference
Elden Ring's Shadow of the Erdtree DLC is a treat for fans of the game and Berserk. One fan has discovered what might be the best Berserk reference in the entire game. FromSoftware, the developer of Elden Ring, takes plenty of inspiration from Kentaro Miura's Berserk manga. This recent discovery in Shadow of the Erdtree might be one of the most hidden references. Berserk is a major piece of graphic novel fiction, establishing tropes that have been seen in video games, anime, and film since its publication in 1989. Guts' iconic Dragon Slayer sword has inspired many massive blades and seeing the protagonist himself appear in the game is only fitting.
YouTuber Zullie the Witch discovered that the Knight of the Solitary Gaol, one of the first optional bosses in the Dlc, looks similar to Guts underneath his helmet. The creator used software to peel back the Knight's model's layers and found that he bears many features associated with Guts, including short, cropped hair, intense eyes, and even the scar running across his nose. This is an impressive detail considering most players will never encounter the boss without the helmet.
Elden Ring is Filled with Berserk References
The Knight of the Solitary Gaol's armor looks similar to Berserk's. The black plating, cloak, sword, and belt may not be a perfect representation of Guts, but there are enough connecting factors that the homage becomes obvious. This is just one of several major references to Berserk in Elden Ring, many of which can be identified by fans.
Blaidd, an NPC who strikes Guts' most iconic pose and even bears similarities to the character when he's in wolf-like armor, is arguably the most notable nod to Berserk. Malenia's helmet is another example as it seemingly homages the appearance of Farnese's Holy Iron Chain Knights Helmet. The most touching tribute is the tribute to Miura himself, which can be found just outside Castle Morne.
Elden Ring is Packed With Secrets
Elden Ring is a massive game that's filled with secrets. Knowing the amount of effort that goes into hiding some of them shows how much Fromsoftware cares about its creations. The reference to Guts as a brutal warrior who stands out as one of Shadow of the Erdtree's most challenging early encounters is no doubt fitting given Berserk's brutal themes and battle-forged anti-hero.
It is likely that more Easter eggs will be uncovered in the coming days. Shadow of the Erdtree DLC is a testament to Fromsoftware's dedication to detail and love of their inspiration. For fans of Berserk, exploring the Dlc will be a rewarding experience.
