Top 8 Must-Play RPG DLCs That Enhance the Main Story

A significant number of standout games currently being produced by the industry are Role-Playing Games (RPGs). These games frequently combine compelling narratives with an ever-growing array of capabilities, resulting in some of the most captivating and cherished titles on contemporary gaming systems. When a well-loved game is released, it inevitably sparks demand for more, as fans eagerly seek additional experiences within the game’s world.

As a passionate RPG fan, I’ve noticed that while masterpieces like Baldur’s Gate 3 stand tall without any additional content, many other RPGs cleverly utilize Downloadable Content (DLC) to broaden the horizons of their game worlds and narratives. However, it’s essential to acknowledge that some games use DLC as a means for Day One bonuses, cosmetics, or even horse armor – items that might not add much substance.

When executed well, however, DLC has the power to breathe new life into a game by extending its story and themes in ways that complement the original experience. Unlike some DLCs which focus more on high-quality narratives alone, the DLCs highlighted in this list will enrich the narrative gaps left by the main game’s story or deepen a character’s journey, making them an integral part of the overall saga rather than just standalone adventures.

8. Tyranny – Bastard’s Wound

Adds A New Level Of Depth To Companions

Although Tyranny is hailed as one of the top RPGs for seamlessly blending its storyline and gameplay, Obsidian’s masterpiece had some rough edges upon its initial launch. One aspect that was improved with the release of the Bastard’s Wound DLC was a more in-depth look at the game’s companions.

Players can now discover intricate character details of companions such as Barik, deepening their understanding, while simultaneously shaping their interactions within the game’s world. Additionally, they’ll explore fresh territories filled with immersive, top-tier missions and experiences.

7. Fallout: New Vegas – Honest Hearts

Fleshes Out The Intimidating Legion

As a dedicated gamer, I can confidently say that the four narrative expansions for Fallout: New Vegas are nothing short of masterful feats in both storytelling and game design. Each one pushes the already legendary New Vegas to even loftier realms. Among these, Honest Hearts stands out as it sheds light on some crucial lore aspects related to Caesar’s Legion, significantly enriching the overall narrative.

As a gamer, diving into Joshua Graham’s story – also known as ‘the Burned Man’ – and his past with the Legion is one of the most immersive narrative experiences in the series for me. The questline tied to Honest Hearts is equally captivating, delivering a quality on par with these engaging tales.

6. Witcher 3 – Blood and Wine

An Excellent Addition To Geralt’s Tale

In the realm of downloadable content (DLC), few releases have left such a lasting impact as the legendary expansion known as “Blood and Wine“. To countless gamers, it encapsulates everything an RPG DLC should strive for. The players are introduced to a fresh environment brimming with mystery, yet it seamlessly ties into Geralt’s broader narrative.

Just like other titles on this list, Blood and Wine isn’t merely a standalone set of quests unrelated to the rest of the game. Instead, Toussaint serves as more than just a side trip for The Witcher; it’s an expansive region that significantly deepens the overall narrative of The Witcher 3.

5. Cyberpunk 2077 – Phantom Liberty

Dogtown Is A Brutal And Relentless Enclave

In the vein of a gripping tech-noir narrative, “Phantom Liberty” continues to immerse players in V’s journey alongside Johnny Silverhand, delivering another dose of stylish, dystopian action for fans captivated by the core experience of “Cyberpunk 2077.

In the unexplored, perilous region of Dogtown lies a challenging adventure in Phantom Liberty, brimming with tough decisions, fresh adversaries, and an exceptional main storyline. This expansion, much like Blood and Wine, solidifies its place among the most significant DLC pieces ever created.

4. Elden Ring – Shadow Of The Erdtree

Enhances An Already Amazing RPG

The exceptional, award-winning expansion for Elden Ring significantly deepens the narrative of the Lands Between, offering players a wealth of background details that enrich the dark storyline centered around a heinous act of deity murder and treachery (though lore enthusiasts might want to start polishing their pitchforks if this isn’t an accurate portrayal of every boss weapon’s backstory).

Delving deeper into the mysteries of the Greater Power, the dynamics among deities, and the character of the world, all while persevering through tougher adversaries, makes this an exceptional DLC narrative in the traditional souls-like fashion.

3. Oblivion – Shivering Isles

Set The Standard For RPG DLC

Instead of criticizing Bethesda for using the terms “horse” and “armor” together since mounted cavalry became obsolete after World War I, which might seem like an unnecessary expense for players, Bethesda made up for it by providing some of the finest additional content ever added to a game post-launch.

As a gamer, I can’t help but rave about The Shivering Isles – it’s an exceptional tale of adventure and discovery! Although it stands mostly independent from Oblivion’s main quest, this DLC truly enriches the protagonist’s narrative journey. In fact, the ‘canonical’ ending to my Hero of Kvatch saga unfolds in a mind-bending climax within Sheogorath’s domain of insanity.

2. Mass Effect 2 – Lair of the Shadow Broker

Ties The First Two Games Together Wonderfully

Similar to many BioWare follow-ups, Mass Effect 2 shares a connection, albeit one that can be seen as skin-deep, with its precursor game. Although several decisions made in Mass Effect 1 impact the sequel, Shepherd effectively begins anew in this installment. A new existence (in a literal sense), a new profession, a new group to serve, and fresh allies to collaborate with are all part of the package.

The hideout of the Shadow Broker serves as a crucial element in keeping Mass Effect 1 relevant, thereby maintaining the spotlight on the trilogy’s overarching storyline. Additionally, it provides a chance for fans who had romantic connections with a popular character to reconnect between game releases.

1. Dark Souls 3 – The Ringed City

A Beautiful Sendoff For This Legendary Trilogy

Although Shadow of the Erdtree is widely regarded as a masterpiece within From Software’s collection, it’s fair to say that The Ringed City serves as a poignant farewell to a trilogy of games, which, despite being divisive, significantly transformed the gaming world for the better.

The journey for the enigmatic Dark Soul concludes at the world’s brink, in the Ringed City. The relentless struggle to maintain a shattered pattern has guided players to an area rich with narrative elements characteristic of the Souls series. For those who seek more than just superficial understanding, there’s a tale of sorrow here, climaxing with some of the finest boss battles, steeped in narrative, that the series has ever offered. Given the series’ reputation for enigmatic storytelling and challenging boss encounters (not the first to do so), this is quite an impactful finale.

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2025-01-19 04:36