Bethesda’s $2.50 horse armor DLC for Oblivion, released 18 years ago, was a big moment in gaming history. Even though it seemed small, it sparked a long debate about paid downloadable content (DLC). This DLC made many gamers frustrated and suspicious of game developers, changing how people thought about extra game content.
Over time, attitudes towards paid DLC have evolved, especially among younger gamers who are accustomed to paying for add-ons. However, there’s still a perception, particularly among “hardcore” gamers and older consumers, that paid DLC is generally undesirable. This sentiment is often evident in online discussions, where the announcement of the new DLC often elicits groans and complaints about game publishers’ greed.
Critics argue that modern games are incomplete at launch, with parts of the game being reserved for future DLC. This belief feeds into the narrative that game publishers are exploiting players by withholding content to sell later. Developers counter this by explaining that while they plan for future DLC, the actual development of this content usually begins only after the game’s release.
However, there have been instances where games launched with significant issues or missing content, yet still promoted expensive DLCs. These cases reinforce the suspicion among some gamers that DLC practices are exploitative. This skepticism is fueled by high-profile games that failed to deliver complete experiences at launch while pushing for additional purchases.
Despite these issues, not all DLC is met with disdain. High-quality expansions, such as FromSoftware’s Shadow of the Erdtree for Elden Ring, have been well-received. These expansions, which add significant new content and extend the gameplay experience, are often seen as a natural continuation of the original game rather than an attempt to cash in on players.
The success of such expansions highlights a crucial factor: the base game must be robust and complete for its DLC to be well-received. Players are more likely to invest in DLC if the original game is high-quality and the additional content feels substantial and transformative. This approach resonates well with players, offering them meaningful new experiences.
Conversely, cosmetic DLCs, which offer aesthetic enhancements without affecting gameplay, have become widely accepted. While they are sometimes mocked, especially when overused, many players view them as optional luxury items that do not detract from the core game experience. This type of DLC has become a staple in many games’ business models.
The key to successful DLC lies in understanding the audience and offering content that truly adds value to the game. Large expansions and minor cosmetic enhancements tend to be the most successful, while mid-range content that doesn’t significantly enhance the game often fails to justify its cost.
Developers must carefully consider their post-launch content strategies to meet player expectations and enhance the overall game experience.
