Elden Ring fans have been buzzing with excitement ever since the unveiling of the trailer for Shadow of the Erdtree, the highly anticipated DLC for the game.
Among the intriguing details revealed in the trailer is the introduction of a new character, Messmer the Impaler. But who exactly is Messmer, and what role will he play in this expansive universe?
Messmer, depicted as a formidable foe in Shadow of the Erdtree’s trailer, poses a significant threat to players. His resemblance to Radagon sparks speculation about their connection, possibly suggesting a deeper, metaphysical tie. Additionally, his association with Miquella and The Golden Order further cements his role as a pivotal figure in Elden Ring’s narrative, embodying themes of light versus darkness.
Who Is Messmer? What Is His Purpose?
It’s evident from the trailer for Shadow of the Erdtree that Messmer is positioned as a formidable adversary, perhaps even the ultimate foe that players will confront in the DLC.
His antagonistic stance towards the Tarnished protagonist hints at a clash of epic proportions, set against the backdrop of the newly introduced Land of Shadow region, ripe for exploration.
One of the most intriguing aspects of Messmer is his uncanny resemblance to Radagon, a figure of immense significance within the Elden Ring lore.
While there’s no direct evidence linking Messmer to Radagon’s lineage, the parallels suggest a deeper, more profound connection.
Could Messmer be a spiritual descendant, born of magic or metaphysical ties rather than blood? The theme of identity, central to Elden Ring’s narrative, leaves room for such speculation, especially given the game’s penchant for narrative twists.
Further complicating matters is Messmer’s apparent link to Miquella, a demigod whose tragic fate intertwines with the machinations of Mohg.
Speculation runs rampant regarding the nature of their connection, with some even positing that they may be one and the same.
The eerie resemblance between Messmer and the creature imprisoned in Mohg’s lair fuels theories of a twisted fate, with Messmer emerging as a dark reflection of Miquella’s plight.
Drawing inspiration from history, Messmer’s name evokes the legacy of Vlad the Impaler, hinting at a bloodthirsty persona lurking beneath the surface.
His throne-like chair, reminiscent of those found in the boss rooms of Elden Ring, symbolizes his elevated status among the pantheon of demigods and children of Marika.
As players delve deeper into the Elden Ring mythos, clues emerge suggesting Messmer’s status as a demigod, akin to Mohg, Miquella, and others of their ilk. In an interview with IGN, Elden Ring director Hidetaka Miyazaki said:
“You may have seen at the end of the trailer, there was this piece of key art where it shows Messmer sat in this throne-like chair… And this represents the thrones at the base of the Erdtree. And it’s supposed to symbolize that Messmer stands on equal footing to these other demigods and children of Marika who sat around in these thrones and held the rooms of the Erdtree.”
He further revealed:
“So he (Messmer) is an important figure who rivals these other demigods. And as you play the DLC, you will learn a little about why he wasn’t featured in the legends of the Erdtree, the lands between.”
Due to the reference to “Grace of Gold” in the DLC, his possible association with The Golden Order further solidifies his role as a guardian of the Erdtree, locked in opposition to the Tarnished protagonist.
The enigmatic dialogue, “those stripped of the Grace of Gold shall meet death in the embrace of Messmer’s flame,” surrounding Messmer, hints at a deeper ideological conflict rooted in the dichotomy of light and darkness that defines the Elden Ring universe.
With the release date of Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree fast approaching, anticipation reaches a fever pitch.
June 21, 2024, marks the day when players will finally come face to face with the enigmatic Messmer and unravel the mysteries that shroud his existence.
What role do you think Messmer will play in the broader narrative of Elden Ring? How do you interpret the cryptic dialogue surrounding Messmer in the trailer? Also, have you noticed any other clues or hints about Messmer’s identity?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
