“GRRM has not created something new”: Game of Thrones Fans Give George R.R. Martin a Hard Time After FromSoftware’s Admission About Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree DLC
Elden Ring, the hit action RPG from FromSoftware, wowed gamers when it launched in February 2022. It quickly became a bestseller thanks to a winning combination of features. Players loved exploring the vast open world, battling tough enemies, and choosing their own way to play.
This freedom to tackle the game in different ways was a huge part of its success. But another key factor in Elden Ring‘s appeal was its rich and immersive lore. The game benefited from the creative mind of famous fantasy author George R.R. Martin, who helped craft the deep lore that is loved by players.
Now, the wait is finally over for Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree. It’s the biggest expansion FromSoftware has ever made. Interestingly, Martin didn’t have a direct hand in it this time.
George R. R. Martin’s Lore Shaped New Elden Ring DLC
While the base game heavily featured George R.R. Martin‘s influence, the upcoming DLC will draw upon pre-existing lore the author created for Elden Ring that didn’t make the final cut. In an interview with Eurogamer, the game’s Director, Hidetaka Miyazaki, explained that players won’t find entirely new stories from Martin. However, they will rather explore the unused parts of his original world-building. Check out his quote:
[George R. R. Martin] has not created something new which informed the design of the DLC. It’s simply another part of the original story that we thought fit to tell as a new expansion.
This means that although the American novelist himself wasn’t actively involved in the DLC’s development, his initial work on the game’s lore will still heavily influence Shadow of the Erdtree. Despite this, the expansion is set to offer an exciting experience.
The latest trailer (via BANDAI NAMCO Europe’s YouTube channel) revealed new enemies, locations, and story elements, along with the confirmation of the DLC’s price tag of $39.99. Even though Martin was not specifically rehired for the game, fans continue to debate his influence on the game’s development.
Game of Thrones Fans Slam George R. R. Martin Over Elden Ring Involvement
Game of Thrones fans are upset with George R.R. Martin after FromSoftware’s announcement about Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree. This frustration arises because the author helped create the lore and world-building for Elden Ring.
Some fans feel disappointed, believing Martin is focusing more on a video game instead of finishing the eagerly awaited sixth book in the A Song of Ice and Fire series, The Winds of Winter. The book has already faced multiple delays, leaving fans eagerly awaiting its release. Check out some fan reactions:
George really likes to start things and then never finish them
— Joseph Bosco (@Bosco_The_Boss) June 22, 2024
HE STILL HASNT FINISHED A BOOK THATS OVERDUE BY 13 years almost 14
— Appleπ (@AppleVGP) June 22, 2024
To be clear:
George R.R Martin wrote Elden Ring and the Elden Ring DLC: Shadow of the Erdtree, but #GameofThrones fans, after 13 years, is still waiting for Winds of Winter?
Maybe George should write the remaining GOT books as DLC extras.
— Daniel Hennessy (@DK_Hennessy) June 21, 2024
This feeling is shared widely on social media, where the 75-year-old’s participation in other projects is a topic of discussion. Not only fans but even the GOT creator himself expressed disappointment towards his unfinished book. Speaking to Bangcast podcast, he said, “I wish I could write as fast as but I’m 12 years late on this damn novel and I’m struggling with it.”
Meanwhile, watch Game of Thrones on HBO!
