The captivating campaigns of Soulslike games are a hallmark of the genre, immersing players in rich narratives while providing satisfying objectives to pursue. While the core content often keeps gamers engaged, the allure of well-crafted downloadable content (DLC) is hard to resist, offering new experiences to enhance the original journey.
Yet, the availability of substantial DLCs within the Soulslike realm remains limited. Many indie titles lack the resources for significant expansions and tend instead to release smaller packages. However, when larger expansions do occur, they frequently receive acclaim for the craftsmanship and effort displayed by their developers.
This article delves into the notable Soulslike DLCs and evaluates their contributions to the gameplay experience, including build diversity, additional quests, and enhanced enemy variety. Here are ten titles that exemplify the combination of original content and exceptional additions.
10. Steelrising: Cagliostro’s Secrets
A Soulful Puppet Adventure
Before the rise of Lies of P, Steelrising’s Aegis established itself as a prominent figure in the Soulslike genre. Comparable to Lies of P, Steelrising introduced a single DLC, released shortly after its launch. Cagliostro’s Secrets introduced a brand-new area, the Hospital Saint-Louis, along with fresh enemies, weapons, side quests, and a narrative centered on the King’s agent, the Comte de Cagliostro.
This expansion also motivated players to revisit the game through a New Game Plus mode, complete with new gear and weapons, enhancing replayability akin to the experience offered by Dark Souls.
9. Ashen: Nightstorm Isle
A Journey of Hope
Ashen also enjoyed a single, immersive DLC, transporting players to Nightstorm Isle—a land fraught with challenges testing both skill and determination. This expansion delivered more than just perilous terrain; it added rich lore revolving around a mother’s desperate quest to find her daughter amidst volcanic dangers.
With difficult enemies and intricate cave systems awaiting discovery, players were urged to explore, while the addition of cooperative play made this journey a memorable multiplayer experience, a rarity in the genre.
8. Code Vein: Lord of Thunder
An Electrifying Expansion
Among the three DLCs offered for Code Vein, Lord of Thunder stands out for its compelling content. This expansion introduced an array of new weapons, Blood Codes, quests, and environments. Players particularly rave about the intense boss battles, especially against the formidable Lord of Thunder, which presents a challenging yet rewarding fight.
The additional location and weapon designs, such as the standout Fulmen Blade, have captured the hearts of fans and enhanced the overall gameplay experience significantly.
7. Nioh: Dragon of the North
A Triumphant Addition
Recognized as one of the best titles in the Soulslike genre, Nioh’s first DLC, Dragon of the North, elevates the base game substantially. This expansion introduces exciting bosses, missions, and unlocks the expansive Tohoku Region, filled with diverse and engaging content, including memorable locations like Aoba Castle.
6. Hellpoint: Blue Sun
Exploration Awaits
While Hellpoint might not be hailed as a groundbreaking title, its dedication to soul-like mechanics shines through in the DLC, Blue Sun. This expansion added three new expansive areas—Gehenna Prison, Dominion Baths, and The Core—each filled with hidden routes, new enemies, and game-changing weapons that enhance build potential.
Additionally, players can now face off against four new, extraordinary bosses, with Fear standing out as particularly memorable within the game’s twisted universe.
5. Hollow Knight: The Grimm Troupe
A Carnival of Adventure
Fans of Hollow Knight have eagerly awaited a sequel, and while they anticipate Silksong, they can immerse themselves in the various DLCs, notably The Grimm Troupe. This expansion is often debated against Godmaster but ultimately shines due to its vibrant characters, captivating questlines, and challenging bosses. The NPCs, themed after traveling performers, contribute to the charm of the adventure, making it a whimsical yet formidable experience.
4. Bloodborne: The Old Hunters
A Haunting Journey
Known for impeccable expansions, FromSoftware’s Bloodborne features one of the most challenging DLCs: The Old Hunters. It introduces formidable new locations, with some surpassing the base game’s offerings, such as the chilling Research Hall and the haunting Fishing Hamlet.
This DLC is notorious for its intense difficulty, presenting hunters and beasts that test even seasoned players. With the inclusion of additional weaponry, consumables, and the ever-elusive Moonlight Greatsword, this expansion cements its place in Soulslike history. However, the fierce Orphan of Kos remains a daunting adversary, often regarded as one of the most challenging bosses in the game.
3. Remnant: From The Ashes: Subject 2923
Expanding Horizons
Remnant: From the Ashes boasts exceptional replayability through its dynamic world and numerous build options. The Subject 2923 DLC expands its offerings, introducing new regions within the Earth biome and the distinct mountain domain of Reisum.
This expansion also incorporates formidable new bosses and invigorates the narrative with fresh campaign elements. Plus, the incorporation of a hardcore mode intensifies the challenge, enticing players to uncover all the new weapons and gear.
2. Lies Of P: Overture
An Anticipated Addition
After an intense wait, Lies of P finally delivered its much-anticipated DLC, Overture. While the base game was impressive, this DLC takes the challenge to a new level, ensuring players face a slew of demanding bosses that reward skill and perseverance.
Overture introduces various NPCs with intriguing questlines, numerous new locations filled with fresh adversaries, and additional items like weapons, defensive gear, and even outfit customizations, amplifying the gameplay experience.
1. Elden Ring: Shadow Of The Erdtree
A Grand Expansion
With a playtime extending approximately 30 hours or more, Elden Ring’s Shadow of the Erdtree DLC justifies its cost, especially for those wishing to explore every facet of its rich content. This expansion introduces the Scadu Plateau, a massive new area filled with 42 additional bosses, 103 new weapons, numerous armor sets, and exciting enemy types.
The expansive landscape, complex dungeons, and the enigmatic Abyssal Woods ensure that players will find new treasures and challenges lurking in every corner. Given its acclaim, Shadow of the Erdtree has rightly earned discussions of Game of the Year accolades, solidifying its status as a worthy fulfillment of one of the most outstanding video games of all time.
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