Hey friend! If you’re new to gaming, you’ve probably heard the term “DLC” thrown around a lot and wondered what it means. As an avid gamer and tech expert, let me provide a comprehensive overview so you can understand this common yet complex aspect of modern video games.
What is DLC?
DLC stands for “downloadable content.” It refers to additional content for an existing video game that is distributed online by the publisher. DLC provides a way for developers to add new features, items, levels, characters, and more to a game after launch.
Popular types of DLC include:
- Expansion packs – Major additions with 10+ hours of new gameplay
- Map packs – New multiplayer maps
- Weapon packs – Unlock new gear and power-ups
- Costumes and skins – Customize character appearance
- Season passes – Subscription for all future DLC
DLC first emerged in the early 2000s as internet speeds rose, allowing games to expand beyond what was on the disc. Since then, DLC has become a massive business, generating over $5 billion in annual revenue just on consoles.
The Evolution of DLC
In the early years of DLC, small additions like new costumes were given away for free. But as development costs increased, publishers began charging for new content.
Major expansions like Brood War for StarCraft provided a huge amount of content equivalent to a full sequel. But at a lower $30 price, expansions delivered value matching the cost.
Over time, DLC practices have faced criticism for chopping up games into paid add-ons. Horse armor DLC for $2.50 in Oblivion became the poster child for this greedy trend.
But DLC can also be done right. CD Projekt Red’s massive Blood and Wine expansion for Witcher 3 offered an entirely new region and 30 hours of quests for just $20.
The best DLCs meaningfully expand on the base experience. But consumers must be informed to avoid expensive additions that should’ve been included from the start.
The Development Process
Creating quality DLC takes significant time, resources and planning. Many people don’t realize DLC production starts well before launch, not after. For single-player games, separate teams focus on the main game and DLC concurrently.
Good DLC isn’t cut content – it’s additive new ideas and campaigns conceived after core development finishes. Expansions have entire budgets and schedules of their own.
Multiplayer shooters use live service models where new maps, modes and cosmetics are continuously worked on post-launch and delivered as DLC.
Developers love DLC as a way to refine gameplay and support their titles long-term. But publishers set pricing strategy based on maximizing profit, which is not always best for players.
The DLC Controversy
Gamers resent when discs feel incomplete without DLC or main features are excluded for later sales. Many decry this “pay to win” business model.
Season passes bundling all future DLC frequently offer good value. But players dislike buying content sight unseen, before actual quality is known.
Pricing causes fragmentation too. If only some players own new maps, the community gets split between haves and have nots.
Personally I don’t mind paying for major expansions that took significant work. But ancillary features like skins should be free unlocks that respect players’ time and money.
The best way to vote is with your wallet – only buy DLC you truly feel is worth the cost. Sending the right monetary signals matters.
Is the DLC Worth the Price?
When evaluating a DLC purchase, I consider factors like:
Length / Content Amount: Will I get 10+ hours of gameplay from an expansion? Or is it a short cosmetic pack?
Developer Quality: Does this studio consistently produce amazing DLC? Or a history of mediocre add-ons?
Reviews: What are critics and other players saying? Is the community excited or disappointed?
Price: Does the cost match the amount of content? Or is it overpriced?
Enhances Base Game: Will it meaningfully improve and expand on the core experience?
My Enjoyment: Do the new features align with what I personally find fun in this game?
Conducting research helps determine if you’ll truly get value relative to the asking price.
Comparing DLC Pricing and Stores
Where you buy DLC matters too. Marketplaces like Steam often have day one prices that rarely budge. Third party sellers like CDKeys deliver huge discounts.
Here’s a comparison of DLC costs across various platforms:
| DLC Title | CDKeys Price | Steam Price | Xbox Marketplace Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Witcher 3: Blood and Wine | $8.99 | $19.99 | $19.99 |
| Destiny 2: Forsaken | $17.79 | $39.99 | $39.99 |
| Civilization 6 New Frontier Pass | $29.99 | $39.99 | $39.99 |
| Borderlands 3 Season Pass | $24.99 | $49.99 | $49.99 |
As you can see, CDKeys provides the most affordable option with typical savings of 50% or more versus buying directly through first party stores.
Just be sure to buy from a reputable seller like CDKeys to guarantee your key activates successfully. Check reviews and community reputation.
Finding the Best DLC
Wondering which DLC is actually worth picking up for popular franchises? Here are my top recommendations:
The Witcher 3 – Hearts of Stone for the killer story. Blood and Wine for the massive new world. Both are must-buys.
Civilization 6 – Get the Frontier Pass for its smart new systems that shake up strategy. Huge value for Civ fans.
Total War: Warhammer 2 – Prophet and Warlock and The Queen and the Crone add awesome new races.
XCOM 2 – War of the Chosen completely transforms the base game adding tons of tactical depth.
Destiny 2 – Forsaken offers the most content for your money with an engaging new campaign.
Borderlands – Pick up season passes to double your gameplay with tons more loot and vault hunting.
Do some research on relevant forums and you’ll find most players agree on the standout DLC for major franchises.
Beginner Tips for DLC
If you’re just getting started with gaming and DLC, here are some quick tips:
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DLC requires the original game. You can’t play DLC missions without owning the base version too.
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Redeem DLC codes in your platform’s store – PlayStation Store, Steam, Xbox Marketplace, etc. Follow the steps earlier in this guide.
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DLC you own will automatically appear in-game. No need to manually select it.
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For disc copies, you still download DLC digitally – the disc just proves you own the base game.
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Playing with friends requires everyone to own the same DLC maps or content.
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Don’t stack up on too much DLC at first. Start with the best reviewed “must-have” DLCs.
Troubleshooting DLC Issues
Having issues with recently purchased DLC? Try these troubleshooting tips:
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Double check you redeemed the DLC code properly in the correct online store.
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Make sure the account you redeemed on is the same one you use to play the game.
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Still don’t see DLC in-game? Fully close and restart the game. This forces a refresh.
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Verify game and system software are fully updated. Updates are required for DLC.
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Problems finding your old DLC keys? Check old emails, receipts and account purchase history.
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For platform store issues, contact customer support and provide your order number. They can investigate.
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If you bought a code from a third party seller, contact their support if the code is invalid.
Following these steps should fix most common DLC issues. But don’t hesitate to reach out to support if problems persist.
Wrapping Up
Thanks for sticking with me on this epic DLC guide! The world of gaming add-ons is complex, but you now have the knowledge to dive in confidently. Always check reviews, weigh value vs price, and redeem codes carefully. And happy downloading! DLC can provide amazing extra adventures – when done right.
