Downloadable content, as a concept, has had a bit of a shaky reputation over the last few decades. Starting life as “expansions,” DLC used to be regarded as big updates to already beloved games, giving fans even more of what they loved previously. In the last decade or so, DLC has often been linked with greedy publisher practices, with the likes ofEA locking vital content behind a paywall.
Thankfully, DLC seems to be moving more towards its roots, as over the last few years, DLC offerings have been a little more substantial.Ghost of Tsushima’sIki Islandexpansion,Final Fantasy 7 Remake’sIntermissionupdate, and all ofNo Man’s Sky’s slew of updatesall prove that DLC is becoming a worthwhile product once more. To continue the trend, this Summer is filled with exciting, and expansive DLCs for some of the best games around.
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The Elder Scrolls Online: High Isle
Taking place in the Breton homeland of The Systres Archipelago,The Elder Scrolls Online: High Islelooks to be adding a significant amount of new content to the now eight-year-old game. Apparently,High Islewill add dozens of hours of story contentto the game, ensnaring the player in a mysterious conspiracy that threatens the political landscape of all Tamriel.
Players will be able to explore the Mediterranean-inspired island freely, and participate in a brand new 12-person Trial raid called the “Dreadsail Reef.” Two new companions are being added with this expansion, includinga Khajiit sorcerer and a Breton knight.
One of the more substantial additionsHigh Isleis bringing is an expansivenew card game namedTales of Tribute. As well as PvE and PvP options,Tales of Tributewill have its own complex progression system, which will give players unique rewards as they ascend the ranks.
A plethora of newBreton-themed weapons and armorsare heading toElder Scrolls Onlinewith this High Isle expansion, along with new world events that see volcanic fissures erupting around the new islands.Elder Scrolls Online: High Isleis set to release June 6 on PC and Mac, and June 21 for consoles.
Outriders: Worldslayer
Square Enix’sOutridersis also receiving a pretty big update this Summer. TitledWorldslayer, this expansion will be available for all players on its June 30 launch, boosting underleveled characters to level 30.Worldslayerbrings a whole new, standalone campaign toOutriders, fleshing out the backstory ofthe planet Enoch, and a mysterious new Altered foe.
New armors, weapons, and mods are coming withtheWorldslayerupdate, resulting in over 100 new Legendary items being added. Two new progression systems are also being implemented, with the first being the PAX system, which gives players over level 30 new upgrades based on the subclass they choose. Players over level 30 will also earn xp for their Ascension Level, which will grant them additional skill points.
One of the most highly anticipated DLCs of the last few years,Cuphead: The Delicious Last Courseis finally releasing this Summer, on June 30.New bosses, weapons, and a whole new island come toCupheadwith this DLC.
A new playable character, Ms. Chalice is also being added to the game, who utilizes a unique moveset and abilities that differ from Cuphead’s and Mugman’s. A new NPC,Chef Saltbaker will also make an appearance, aiding the player with new upgrades and consumables.
Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak
Also slated for a June 30 release date,Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreaktakes players on a journey to the mountainous Elgado Outpost, where they’ll encounterthe monstrous Three Lords. Based on Western horror icons, these Three Lords should pose a significant challenge, even to those who’ve bested the rest ofMonster Hunter Rise’s roster.
To battle these new monsters,Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreakis also bringing a range of new weapons, armors, and combat abilities to the game. With new locales, towering monsters, and a slew of new gear, there should be plenty forMonster Hunterfans to sink their teeth into.
