TL;DR
- Access requires defeating Golden Hippopotamus in Shadow Keep’s main entrance
- Find hidden ladder near Specimen Storehouse leading to illusory wall puzzle
- Navigate Recluses River via coffin transport to reach Darklight Catacombs
- Defeat Inquisitor Jori to unlock final passage to Abyssal Woods
- Prepare for unique environmental challenges and invulnerable shadow enemies
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The expansive realm of Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree conceals numerous mysteries, with the Abyssal Woods representing one of its most elusive destinations. This area demands not just exploration skills but also survival against formidable adversaries that cannot be damaged through conventional means. Our comprehensive walkthrough details the precise steps to uncover this hidden location. Please note that significant spoilers follow throughout this guide.
The Abyssal Woods occupies the central region of the Shadow Realm map, entirely obscured by persistent fog that blocks visibility. Many players struggle to identify the entry point, which actually originates within the intimidating stronghold known as Shadow Keep.
Gaining access to the Abyssal Woods necessitates completing the Shadow Keep legacy dungeon, reminiscent of Leyndell Royal Capital’s complexity from the base game. Your journey continues southward along the winding path of Recluses River after conquering this fortress.
Upon entering Shadow Keep, execute these critical steps systematically:
Descend the initial ladder and proceed through the water channel to encounter another vertical passage. Below lies a compact storage chamber containing a mysterious artwork. While this appears to be the endpoint, the true path remains hidden.
Strike the wall section immediately adjacent to the painting to expose its illusory nature. Advance through the revealed corridor until discovering an ancient coffin.
The coffin serves as transportation to Ruins of Unte, initiating the next phase of your expedition. From this point, continue traveling southward alongside Recluses River, remaining vigilant for the entrance to Darklight Catacombs. This underground network presents its own challenges before reaching the final barrier.
Within the catacombs, you’ll confront Inquisitor Jori, a mandatory boss encounter that guards access to the Abyssal Woods. Defeating this adversary unlocks the passage to your ultimate destination.
Upon entering the Abyssal Woods, prepare for distinctive environmental mechanics and enemy behaviors. The area features shadow creatures that cannot be harmed through normal combat approaches, requiring alternative strategies for navigation and survival.
The woodland environment presents unique navigation challenges with limited visibility and treacherous terrain. Strategic positioning and careful movement become essential for avoiding the area’s most dangerous inhabitants while seeking valuable rewards hidden throughout the mist-shrouded landscape.
For players seeking to optimize their character builds before attempting this challenging area, our Weapons Unlock guide provides essential equipment recommendations. Additionally, understanding proper Class Guide selections can significantly impact your survival chances in this hostile environment.
Action Checklist
- Defeat Golden Hippopotamus at Shadow Keep entrance
- Navigate to Specimen Storehouse and locate hidden ladder
- Activate illusory wall mechanism and proceed through coffin transport
- Follow Recluses River south to Darklight Catacombs
- Defeat Inquisitor Jori to unlock final passage
No reproduction without permission：SeeYouSoon Game Club » How To Reach Abyssal Woods In Elden Ring: Shadow Of The Erdtree Complete guide to finding the hidden Abyssal Woods through Shadow Keep's secret passages and illusory walls