Versions & Buying Guide#
“Choose your path into the Lands Between wisely.” — a word of shopping advice
Before you pick up Elden Ring, figure out which edition to buy, on which platform, and whether the DLC is included. This page helps you make the smartest purchase.
Platform Comparison#
The game ships on multiple platforms, each with its own trade-offs.
| Platform | Strengths | Caveats |
|---|---|---|
| PC (Steam) | Best visuals, mod support | Requires a decent rig |
| PlayStation 5 | Strong performance, exclusive optimizations | Requires a console |
| PlayStation 4 | Low entry barrier | Mediocre visuals |
| Xbox Series | Stable | Requires a console |
| Switch 2 | Portable | Big visual compromises |
| Xbox One | Low entry barrier | Older console |
For the best visuals and smoothness, pick PC/PS5/XSX; for portability, pick Switch 2.
Edition Contents#
Standard Edition#
Includes the base game only, without the DLC.
| Contents | Notes |
|---|---|
| Main game | Full campaign |
| Update patches | Free updates going forward |
Deluxe / Collector’s Edition#
| Contents | Notes |
|---|---|
| Standard Edition content | The core |
| DLC | Shadow of the Erdtree (depending on edition) |
| Digital extras | Art book, soundtrack, and more |
Story and art fans may consider the Collector’s Edition; for pure gameplay, the Standard Edition is enough.
DLC: Shadow of the Erdtree#
This is Elden Ring’s major expansion DLC, released on June 21, 2024.
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Theme | The Realm of Shadow |
| New areas | A brand-new hidden land to explore |
| New weapons/spells | A large batch of new equipment |
| New bosses | Several high-difficulty challenges |
| New story | The tale of Miquella |
Is the DLC Worth Buying?#
- If you finished the base game, the DLC offers a whole new experience of hardship and exploration — strongly recommended.
- Overall difficulty runs high, best suited to players who want a challenge.
- Content volume rivals the base game’s accolades; excellent value for money.
Which Editions Include the DLC#
| Edition | Includes DLC? |
|---|---|
| Standard Edition | No |
| Shadow of the Erdtree Edition | Base game + DLC |
| Deluxe Edition | Depends on the listing |
Read the store listing carefully before buying and confirm whether the DLC is included, to avoid paying twice.
Price and Discounts#
Elden Ring usually goes on sale during major sales events (Steam summer/winter sales); the list price is on the high side.
| Situation | Advice |
|---|---|
| Want to save money | Wait for a sale |
| Want to play now | Buy at full price |
| Want to collect | Get the Deluxe/physical edition |
Premium memberships and game library subscriptions often carry extra discounts — worth watching.
Where to Buy#
| Channel | Notes |
|---|---|
| Steam | Main digital storefront |
| PlayStation Store | PS version |
| Xbox Store | Xbox version |
| Physical copies | For collectors |
Pre-Purchase Checklist#
Before buying, confirm:
- Platform: the one you own and actually use.
- Specs: whether your PC meets the requirements.
- DLC: whether you want to play it; pick an edition that includes it.
- Budget: factor in sales and discounts.
- Language: whether it supports Chinese (Simplified Chinese is officially supported).
System Requirements (PC)#
Minimum#
- Windows 10/11
- Intel i5-8400 / AMD
- 12GB RAM
- GTX 1060 6GB
- 60GB storage
Recommended#
- Windows 10/11
- Intel i7-8700K / AMD
- 16GB RAM
- RTX 3060
- 60GB SSD
Closing Thoughts#
Choosing the right edition and platform makes everything twice as effective. Whichever platform and edition you choose, the Lands Between are ready with their most primordial adventure. Happy buying — and beneath the Erdtree, may you become your own Elden Lord.
Timing Your Purchase#
To get the best deal, learn to read the timing:
| Timing | Notes |
|---|---|
| Launch | Full price |
| Major sales | Common discounts |
| Anniversaries | Possible events |
| Second-hand | Lower cost |
| Membership discounts | Platform deals |
Digital vs Physical#
| Dimension | Digital | Physical |
|---|---|---|
| Convenience | Buy and play instantly | Shipping required |
| Collection | No physical item | Collectible value |
| Resale | Not possible | Can be resold |
| Price | Frequently discounted | Varies |
Choose the acquisition method that suits your preferences.
Final Pre-Purchase Checklist#
One more confirmation:
- Platform ✓
- Specs met ✓
- DLC needs ✓
- Budget fits ✓
- Language support ✓
Once everything checks out, your journey into the Lands Between can begin.
Final Thoughts#
Pick the right edition, check your specs, and time your purchase — then your Elden Ring journey starts on the right foot. Whenever, wherever, and on whichever platform you step into this land, a deep and unforgettable adventure awaits. May your choice be just right and your travels smooth.
Steam Version and Settings Tips#
If you buy on Steam, keep an eye on these details:
| Setting | Advice |
|---|---|
| Language | Simplified Chinese |
| Cloud saves | Enabled |
| In-game updates | Keep up to date |
| Community/Workshop | For reference |
What’s in the Physical Collector’s Edition#
For collectors, the physical/Collector’s Edition usually includes:
- Art book
- Soundtrack (OST)
- Design and art materials
- Collector’s box and merchandise
If you want to both play and collect, the Collector’s Edition is a fine choice.
About Refunds#
If something comes up after purchase, each platform usually offers a refund within a certain window:
- Steam has clear refund thresholds.
- Read the platform’s rules before buying.
- Contact platform support promptly if problems arise.
Parting Words#
Whichever edition and platform you finally choose, stepping into the Lands Between itself is a journey worth looking forward to. This buying guide simply paves the last stretch of road before departure. Beneath the Erdtree, may you be crowned Elden Lord soon.