Elden Ring Stuck On Loading Screen Dlc

2 min read 07-01-2025

Many players have reported getting stuck on the loading screen after installing the Elden Ring DLC, a frustrating issue that cuts short the excitement of exploring new content. This isn't a new problem; loading screen freezes have plagued the game since launch, but the DLC seems to have exacerbated the issue for some. Let's dive into why this happens and what you can try to get back into the Lands Between.

Common Causes of Loading Screen Freezes in Elden Ring

Several factors can contribute to Elden Ring freezing on the loading screen, especially after installing a significant update like the DLC:

Outdated Graphics Drivers: Outdated or corrupted graphics drivers are a leading cause of many game-related issues, including loading screen freezes. Your graphics card needs compatible drivers to function correctly with Elden Ring.
Insufficient System Resources: Elden Ring is a demanding game. If your system's RAM, CPU, or storage space is insufficient, it can lead to loading problems. The DLC adds more content, further straining your system's resources.
Corrupted Game Files: Corrupted or incomplete game files can prevent the game from loading correctly. This can occur during installation or due to system errors.
Hard Drive Issues: Problems with your hard drive, such as fragmentation or failing sectors, can cause loading delays or freezes.
Mod Conflicts (If Applicable): If you're using mods, conflicts between them or incompatibility with the DLC can disrupt the loading process.

Troubleshooting Steps: Getting Back to the Game

Here are some steps to take if you're stuck on the Elden Ring loading screen after installing the DLC:

1. Update Your Graphics Drivers:

This is the most crucial step. Visit the websites of AMD or NVIDIA (depending on your graphics card) to download and install the latest drivers for your specific model. Restart your computer afterward.

2. Verify Game Files:

Most game launchers (Steam, Epic Games Store, etc.) have a built-in function to verify the integrity of game files. Use this feature to check for and repair any corrupted files.

3. Check System Requirements:

Ensure your PC meets the minimum and recommended system requirements for Elden Ring, including the DLC's added demands. Consider upgrading your system if needed.

4. Manage System Resources:

Close unnecessary background applications and processes to free up RAM and CPU resources before launching Elden Ring.

5. Check Hard Drive Health:

Run a hard drive diagnostic tool to check for errors. Consider defragmenting your hard drive (if using an HDD) or checking for SSD errors.

6. Disable Mods (If Applicable):

Temporarily disable any mods you are using to see if they're causing the conflict.

7. Reinstall the Game (Last Resort):

If none of the above solutions work, reinstalling the game is your last resort. This is time-consuming but can resolve issues caused by deeply corrupted game files.

Remember to save your game before trying any of these steps. While frustrating, these issues are often solvable with a little troubleshooting. Good luck, Tarnished!