Overview
Know what belongs to the original game, paid expansion and separate release.
How it works
This guide breaks the topic into the concrete decisions that matter in an actual playthrough, separating progression requirements from optional improvements.
How to approach it
Follow the stages in order, then use the linked character, region, boss and equipment references when you need more detail.
Common mistakes
Do not assume optional steps are mandatory or that all encounters remain unchanged after major story progression.
Elden Ring in 2026: versions, Tarnished Pack and Nightreign: step by step
Core game and expansion
Elden Ring released in February 2022; Shadow of the Erdtree is its 2024 expansion set in the Realm of Shadow. The two should not be described as the same content package.
Tarnished Edition and pack
The 2026 Tarnished Edition arrived for Switch 2, while the Tarnished Pack added two starting classes (Idus Knight and Heavy Knight), weapons and Torrent cosmetics for supported base-game versions.
Recent patches
Version 1.17 added 2026 pack support and balance adjustments; official version 1.17.2 of 20 October 2026 is a bug-fix update, not a new dungeon or boss release.
Nightreign distinction
Elden Ring Nightreign is a separate standalone game with its own gameplay loop and updates. Do not mix its characters, mechanics or rewards into this encyclopedia.