Summary: Still hoping for a fresh take on Elden Ring and a renewed sense of novelty for this old game? Bandai Namco has dropped an absolute bombshell with a mini-DLC, including a new starting class, mount customization, and even a massive surprise for the Switch 2 launch edition!
A Steal at Just $5! This Super Mini-DLC Launches on All Platforms on August 28th!
Suitable for: Battle-hardened Elden Ring veterans, nostalgic Tarnished who thought their journey in the Lands Between was completely over, and casual players looking for a high-value excuse to return without breaking the bank.
Value: Get the exact price and release date of the DLC firsthand without scavenging shady leak forums. Unlock brand-new gameplay content for less than the price of a boba tea-maximum value achieved!
Following the massive success of Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree, almost everyone assumed FromSoftware was totally done updating the game.
However, Bandai Namco Entertainment unexpectedly blindsided the community by announcing the "Filthy Pack" mini-DLC (widely known as the Tarnished Pack), priced at just $4.99 and launching globally on August 28th.
This update injects fresh life into the classic title, introducing the core customization features players have been requesting since 2022.
Start by Going Head-to-Head with Malenia! Two Brand-New Starting Classes That Are Incredibly Satisfying!
Suitable for: Hardcore build-crafting theory-crafters, New Game Plus enthusiasts tired of the same old default origins, and speedrunners hunting for an extreme early-game advantage.
Value: Gain immediate access to the raw mechanical strengths of two highly distinct classes, eliminating the tedious early-game rune farm. Start with top-tier optimization to bully early bosses and unlock a completely fresh perspective on a new playthrough while saving valuable Elden Ring Runes for future upgrades and equipment.
This DLC introduces two brand-new starting templates meticulously designed by FromSoftware:
Heavy Knight boasts unprecedented base Poise and maximum Strength requirements while wearing exclusive heavy armor, allowing you to walk right up and swing through Malenia's combos from minute one.
Ides Knight is a dark-fantasy hybrid class combining Faith and Intelligence. Starting with highly practical cross-discipline magic, it breaks traditional class barriers between mages and paladins, enabling unique tactical approaches from the very beginning of Limgrave.
Finally, After Four Years, the Torrent Customization System Is Officially Unlocked!
Suitable for: Veteran map-clearers who have explored every square inch of the world, virtual photographers who live for HUD-less screenshots, and fashion-focused collectors.
Benefits: Total relief from the default spectral steed. You can finally reward Torrent-your loyal companion throughout hundreds of hours-with a unique appearance that perfectly matches your armor set.
Since 2022, players have relied on unstable PC mods just to change Torrent's appearance.
Now, official customization is finally being integrated directly into the game.
The DLC unlocks three exclusive spectral mount skins, including:
An armored warhorse inspired by the Roundtable Hold aesthetic.
A decayed, shadow-themed design inspired by the Realm of Shadow.
No mods required-both console and PC players can officially customize Torrent for the first time.
Simultaneously Launching on Switch 2! A Treat for Both Current and Next-Gen Players!
Suitable for: Cross-platform gamers, handheld console collectors, and technology enthusiasts following FromSoftware's latest releases.
Value: Understand exactly how this mini-DLC integrates with the upcoming hardware launch, preventing duplicate purchases while ensuring every platform receives the complete experience.
Bandai Namco has confirmed that the mini-DLC launches simultaneously on:
PC
PlayStation
Xbox
It will also be included with the newly announced Nintendo Switch 2 version of Elden Ring: Tarnished Edition, launching on August 28th.
Handheld players will receive the definitive edition with all new cosmetic content included from day one, with no separate purchase required.
Tips for Different Players
Speedrun & Challenge Players
Choose the Heavy Knight immediately. Its incredible starting Poise dramatically reduces the need for defensive play during the early game, potentially reshaping existing speedrun routes and creating entirely new optimization strategies.
Cosmetic Collectors
The new Torrent skins are account-wide unlocks. Once purchased, they can immediately be equipped on your existing endgame save without creating a brand-new character.
PvP & Co-op Players
Prioritize the Ides Knight. Its hybrid Faith/Intelligence stat spread is perfectly suited for the popular Level 125-150 PvP meta, allowing you to build a powerful hybrid character from the very beginning without wasting Larval Tears.
Casual Returning Players
Spend the $5 and simply begin a fresh adventure. There's no need to worry about navigating another enormous endgame expansion. Thanks to the two brand-new starting classes, even the opening hours of Elden Ring feel fresh again at a fraction of the price of a full DLC.
