Downloadable content can be a bit of a mixed bag in most games. Some paid content can feel like a rip-off, but many developers understand how integral a good expansion pack can be to improve the longevity and relevance of their games.
This is why the best open-world games are all the more notable when fans can get their hands on some excellent DLC. The idea of playing a meticulously crafted extension of one’s favorite sandbox game is tantalizing for many.
Red Dead Redemptionis already an unforgettable title as is, but what really wowed fans was its focus on a DLC that made for a fun and interesting take on this established world. Zombies can make any IP interesting as long as it’s not handled lazily, andUndead Nightmareshowed Rockstar’s willingness to try out new things.
This was the first time the company experimented with this setting, and the end result was spectacular. Marston’s what-if adventures during the zombie apocalypse are wildly riveting and worth checking out for any fan.
Cyberpunk 2077had a long road to redemption, which was much-needed given the broken state of this game. Still, fans knew there was something magical behind all the bugs and unfulfilled promises that slowly came into being as CD Projekt Red gave this title theNo Man’s Skytreatment.
Eventually, the patches ironed out most of the kinks and helpedCyberpunk 2077stand tall and proud as an amazing video game. The cherry on top of this cakewasPhantom Liberty, a DLC that brought over the talents of Idris Elba and introduced the compelling setting of Dogtown. Fans were treated to everything from new endings to yet another fascinating narrative that shows why the writing talent at CD Projekt Red is in a class of its own.
Oblivionis a game that fans still can’t get enough of to this day, with the success of the remaster speaking volumes when it comes to this game’s relevance. Bethesda wowed everyone withtheShivering Islandsexpansion, which is arguably the best piece of DLC ever released by this company.
The main story of the base game leads everyone to feel like a passenger in the main plot, but this isn’t the case in theShivering Isles. Players play a major role in the plot, help a doomed deity escape their fate, and can potentially assume their role as Sheogorath, the Daedric Prince of Madness, which is as impactful as it gets.
The sublime experience of playingOuter Wildsis something that fans will have a great time with. To make a DLC that not only matches the quality of the base game but improves upon it in the eyes of many is nothing short of unthinkable.
This is whyEchoes of the Eyedeserves all the praise in the world, even if its focus on horror elements may be a bit too much for some. The puzzle-solving is as organic and interesting as fans would expect, allowing them to use the magic of exploration to find places to get utterly lost in.
Elden Ring’s base game is a blast to play throughas players get stronger, but players feel that the challenge is somewhat lacking in this title. For these players,Shadow of the Erdtreeis the way to go.
The difficulty is ridiculous and will cause players to tear their hair out before they realize the importance of Scadutree Fragments. Thankfully, this frustration won’t persist for too long as players gather this important resource and eventually take out the many imposing bosses standing in their way.
Grand Theft Auto 4is one of the greatest video games ever made, with the DLCs to match. After a player’s adventures with Niko Bellic are over, they can enjoy a fun expansion where they control a member of a biker gang who must deal with betrayals and death-defying moments of his own.
However, as great asThe Lost and the Damnedis, most people agree that it’sThe Ballad of Gay Tonythat is the superior expansion. The titular character is one of the most iconicGTApersonalities who was so entertaining that he was deemed worthy of a cameo inGTA Online, and the DLC’s ridiculousness factor is ramped up so high that it’s bound to lead to some engaging DLCs.
The Witcher 3went so hardwith its DLCs that one of them was deemed RPG of the Year, which speaks volumes about its quality. That being said,Hearts of Stoneis no slouch, introducing characters and a storyline that are arguably better than those present inBlood & Wine.
However, one step into the vibrant realm of Toussaint will make it clear why this expansion pack easily wormed its way into the hearts of fans. The work done to bring to life a world inspired by medieval France is commendable and gives players more unique upgrade systems to tinker with and side content to get lost in.
New Vegasis one of the best video games ever made, with its base game being solid enough to make it a must-play RPG. This excellence is further bolstered by four excellent pieces of DLC that make Obsidian’s magnum opus even more enjoyable.
Lonesome Road’s linear path may irk some fans, but Ulysses' interesting character makes up for it. BothDead MoneyandHonest Heartslet players explore unique locations, but the expansion that won over fans with its charming humor isOld World Blues, which is easily one of the best pieces of DLC ever made.
