Elden Ring's Shadow of the Erdtree DLC: Boiled Crab as a Scadutree Fragment Alternative
Players are discovering unconventional strategies to conquer the challenging Shadow of the Erdtree DLC. While Scadutree Fragments offer significant offensive and defensive buffs, their limited quantity has driven players to seek alternatives. One such item gaining popularity is the Boiled Crab, a quest item from the base game.
The difficulty spike between the base game and the DLC is substantial, prompting players to utilize previously overlooked items like Runes Arcs. However, the Boiled Crab offers a compelling alternative. As highlighted in a recent Reddit post, this item grants a 20% physical damage negation for 60 seconds. Its unlimited availability, unlike Scadutree Fragments, makes its temporary effect less of a drawback.
A Quest-Locked Item:
The accessibility of Boiled Crab, however, hinges on completing a specific quest. Failing to interact with or defeat 
Blackguard Big Boggart before progressing too far in the story, specifically reaching Volcano Manor without speaking to 
Rya, permanently locks players out of obtaining it. This has unfortunately resulted in many players missing out.
Alternative Options:
Fortunately, several other items provide similar benefits. The Dragoncrest Greatshield Talisman, readily obtainable, offers a 20% reduction in physical damage but occupies a valuable Talisman slot. The 
Opaline Hardtear provides a more substantial 3-minute damage negation across all damage types, addressing a common complaint about the DLC's boss encounters. These alternatives offer players viable strategies to mitigate the increased difficulty.
