DLC

DLC stands for downloadable content. It is anything added to a game after, or alongside, the main release that you download separately. DLC can be free or paid, tiny or enormous. It ranges from a single costume or vehicle to new story chapters, extra maps, additional characters and full expansions that add dozens of hours.

Expansions, packs and add-ons

Different sizes of DLC have different names. An expansion is a large addition, often with a new area and storyline, sometimes sold at a price close to a smaller full game. A pack groups related items – a map pack, a character pack. Single items are usually treated as microtransactions rather than DLC, though the line is blurry. Several DLC releases are often sold together in a season pass or as part of a deluxe or complete edition.

Common criticisms

DLC is sometimes criticised when content appears to have been cut from the main game to be sold separately, or when a game feels incomplete without it. Players also dislike DLC that is required to play with friends, such as map packs that split online communities. On the other hand, substantial expansions are often praised as excellent value, extending games people already love.

Later editions frequently bundle a game with all its DLC at a lower combined price, so waiting can save money if you are not in a hurry.

Buying sensibly

Before buying DLC, check exactly what it contains on the store page, and whether it requires the base game (it almost always does). Make sure it matches the right platform and edition. For families, DLC purchases go through the same platform payment systems as anything else, so existing spending limits and approval settings will apply. Look out for free DLC too: many games add free updates that are easy to miss.