Update Sunday, June 23rd, 2024: FromSoftware has expressed their deep appreciation in response to CD Projekt Red's high praise, acknowledging that it is "truly a privilege" for their Elden Ring DLC 'Shadow of the Erdtree' to be regarded on the same esteemed level as The Witcher 3's 'Blood & Wine.' 
This recognition is especially significant given that 'Blood & Wine' has been widely celebrated as one of the finest DLCs in the history of gaming. The acknowledgment from CD Projekt Red, a company renowned for creating rich and immersive gaming experiences, underscores the craftsmanship and dedication that went into developing 'Shadow of the Erdtree.' FromSoftware's team feels honored to have their work compared to such a monumental expansion in the gaming community.

Responding to CDPR's initial message, FromSoft expressed their deep appreciation and humility: "It is truly a privilege to be acknowledged alongside 'Blood and Wine,' a benchmark of excellence in its own right. Your recognition means a great deal to us, and we are genuinely touched by your kind words. 
It is an honor to receive such high praise from a studio known for setting such high standards in the industry. We are overwhelmed with gratitude for your generous words. Many thanks." The response highlighted FromSoft's respect for CDPR's work and underscored the mutual admiration between the two renowned studios.

The Witcher franchise developer, CD Projekt Red, renowned for holding the prestigious title for the top-rated RPG expansion with 'Blood & Wine,' has extended its praise to FromSoftware for their exceptional work in the gaming industry. CD Projekt Red acknowledged that 'Shadow of the Erdtree' has now outpaced their own remarkable achievement after an impressive eight-year reign. 

In a statement filled with both pride and humility, the team behind The Witcher expressed how honored they were to have held the top spot for so long but graciously recognized the crowning of a new king in the RPG world. Their admiration for FromSoftware's accomplishment speaks volumes about their respect for the evolving landscape of video game excellence.

In a statement that was enthusiastically shared on a popular social media platform, The Witcher's official account took the time to make a special announcement, remarking: "For eight glorious years, our beloved 'Blood and Wine' expansion proudly held the title of the most critically acclaimed expansion within the role-playing game genre. 

However, times have changed, and we now see that prestigious title being taken over by a new successor, 'Elden Ring.' With that, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to the entire team at FromSoftware for their extraordinary efforts and remarkable achievements. Your dedication and creativity have truly shone through and set a new benchmark in the gaming world!"

The FromSoftware line of Soulsborne titles is renowned for its formidable level of challenge, with creator Hidetaka Miyazaki recently emphasizing that lowering the difficulty would fundamentally alter the game's core essence.