Navigating the map in Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree can significantly enhance your exploration and gameplay experience. Here's how you can effectively navigate the new expansion map:
Understanding the Map
•Map Fragments: There are five map fragments to unlock in the expansion: Gravesite Plains, Scadu Altus, Southern Shores, Rauh Ruins, and Abyssal Woods. Each fragment reveals a section of the map, making navigation easier.
•Interactive Maps: Online resources like interactive maps can be invaluable. They often include markers for bosses, Scadutree Fragments, Revered Spirit Ashes, new weapons, important items, and more. These maps are regularly updated with user contributions, providing a comprehensive guide to the region.
Key Navigation Tips 
•Use of Map Markers: Mark important locations on your in-game map. This includes Sites of Grace, dungeons, hidden paths, or areas you want to return to later.
•Vertical Exploration: The expansion often requires vertical movement. Look for Spirit Springs that allow you to jump to high places, and don't forget about Torrent's double jump and the leaps from cliffs or edges.
•Environmental Clues: Pay attention to environmental storytelling. The layout of the land, like unique rock formations or distinctive flora, can guide you to hidden areas or important items.
•Secret Paths and Illusions: Some areas are hidden behind illusory walls or require you to interact with specific objects to reveal new paths. If something looks like it might be more than it seems, investigate further.
•Transition Areas: The transition from fields to dungeons or other significant areas often involves specific mechanics, like using a coffin for teleportation or finding hidden passages.
•NPCs and Quests: NPCs can provide directions or items that aid in navigation. Completing their quests might unlock new areas or give you tools like the Spectral Steed Whistle for quicker travel.
•Scadutree Fragments and Revered Spirit Ashes: These new items are crucial for dealing and withstanding damage in the Realm of Shadow. Collecting them will enhance your combat abilities, making exploration safer.
General Tips
•Patience: Don't rush. Elden Ring rewards careful exploration.
•Check Your Map Regularly: Ensure you've collected all map fragments for better orientation.
•Use Online Resources: While playing, having an interactive map open on another device can help you track collectibles and points of interest.
•Adapt Your Build: Sometimes, navigation might require different strategies or even a change in your character's build to access certain areas or defeat guardians of pathways.
Conclusion
It takes patience, strategic thinking, and an eye for detail to explore Shadow Keep. "Shadow of the Erdtree" promises to feature a legacy dungeon that will challenge players both in combat and exploration, whether you are traversing its dark corridors, encountering new enemies, or discovering its lore. The areas in Elden Ring are not just combat zones; they also offer stories. So take your time to discover them all.
