In 2026, the fervor surrounding FromSoftware's open-world masterpiece, Elden Ring, remains undiminished, sustained by a dedicated community and the long-awaited promise of new content. Bandai Namco has reignited the passion of the Tarnished with the "Return to Grace Video Contest," a creative challenge that invites fans to showcase their love for The Lands Between through fan-made trailers. This initiative arrives as the community continues its patient vigil for the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion, a DLC whose scale and ambition promise to test even the most seasoned veterans. The contest not only celebrates the game's rich world but also offers a trove of incredible prizes, including a towering 10-foot statue of the iconic Messmer The Impaler, a life-size replica of the Arm of Malenia, and a Helmet of Messmer. However, this celebration comes with a significant caveat: participation is restricted to residents of the continental United States, a limitation that has left many international fans disappointed given the game's global popularity.

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The Return to Grace Video Contest: A Creative Showcase

The "Return to Grace Video Contest," announced by Bandai Namco, tasks participants with crafting their best trailer for Elden Ring using their own in-game footage. The competition is structured across several distinct categories to highlight diverse creative talents:

  • Best Narrative 🎬: For videos that excel in storytelling.

  • Best Action ⚔️: Celebrating the most dynamic and thrilling combat sequences.

  • Best Direction 👁️: Recognizing superior cinematic composition and pacing.

  • Best Comedy 😂: For trailers that find humor in the harsh world of The Lands Between.

The rules are fairly standard, requiring entrants to be over 18 years of age. Notably, influencers who have previously collaborated with Bandai Namco are ineligible to enter, ensuring a level playing field for the broader community. The grand prize is nothing short of spectacular—an imposing 10-foot statue of Messmer The Impaler, a centerpiece for any collector. Other coveted rewards include a life-size replica of the legendary Arm of Malenia and a detailed Helmet of Messmer, all physical testaments to the game's iconic artistry.

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The Long-Awaited Shadow of the Erdtree

While the contest fuels present creativity, the community's gaze is firmly fixed on the future with Shadow of the Erdtree. Announced shortly after the game's 2022 release, this expansion has been highly anticipated for years. Details remain tantalizingly scarce, but FromSoftware has confirmed a crucial piece of information: the new location introduced in the DLC will be roughly the size of Limgrave, the vast and explorable starting area in the base game. This promises a substantial new realm to conquer, filled with:

  • New enemies 🐉: Fresh horrors to challenge players' skills.

  • New weapons 🗡️: Arsenal expansions for novel combat styles.

  • New bosses 👑: Epic encounters that will push veterans to their limits.

Director Hidetaka Miyazaki has stated that Shadow of the Erdtree represents the final major content update for Elden Ring. This announcement lends a bittersweet tone to its eventual release, marking the culmination of a monumental journey for the player base. Miyazaki has hinted that the world of Elden Ring could return in a future project, leaving the door open for a potential sequel, though nothing is confirmed. The scale of Shadow of the Erdtree is expected to provide a satisfying and extensive experience for months following its launch.

A Community of Tarnished Artists

The video contest underscores the vibrant, creative spirit of the Elden Ring community. Fans are not just players but storytellers and cinematographers, using the game's tools to produce works that celebrate its monstrous inhabitants, breathtaking landscapes, and intricate lore. From dramatic recuts of boss fights to comedic montages of failed jumps, the potential for expression is vast. This initiative channels that creativity into an official celebration, even as the geographical restriction reminds us of the practical limitations of such promotions.

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The Legacy and Future of a Masterpiece

As of 2026, Elden Ring stands as one of FromSoftware's most successful titles, a massive hit both critically and commercially. Its open-world design, deep lore, and challenging gameplay have cemented its place in gaming history. The "Return to Grace" contest and the impending Shadow of the Erdtree DLC serve as twin pillars supporting the game's enduring legacy—one looking back to honor player creativity, the other looking forward to expand the epic saga. The community, though momentarily divided by contest eligibility, remains united in its anticipation for new adventures and its appreciation for the world that has captivated millions. The journey through The Lands Between is far from over, and the tales of the Tarnished continue to be written, both by the developers at FromSoftware and by the players themselves.