In today’s gaming landscape, expansions, commonly known as downloadable content (DLC), play a pivotal role. They enhance the gameplay experience by introducing additional elements such as intriguing storylines, new characters, gameplay mechanics, and expansive new areas, all of which work collectively to extend the life of the original game.
This phenomenon is particularly prevalent in open-world games, which allow players to explore vast environments at their leisure, often providing hundreds of hours of gameplay. These games naturally lend themselves to expansions that add even more richness to the experience.
Upon reflection, I’ve realized that some of my favorite expansions come from the realm of open-world titles. Many of these expansions aren’t merely supplementary; they are narratives that deepen the lore and gameplay of the main game, becoming essential parts of the overall experience.
In fact, certain expansions rival or even surpass the original games in quality—a topic worthy of its own discussion. For now, let’s delve into a selection of ten standout open-world game DLCs that have exceptionally enriched their base games.
10. The Iki Island
Ghost of Tsushima
After completing the main storyline of Ghost of Tsushima, I felt the need for a more conclusive ending for Jin Sakai, and the Iki Island DLC fulfills that desire perfectly. While it maintains a structure similar to the original game, it introduces a fresh map, engaging side activities, and a compelling narrative.
This expansion stands out as it delves deep into Jin’s personal struggles, compelling him to confront the haunting memories of his samurai heritage and his father’s legacy, who died on the very island he’s exploring. The introduction of a new antagonist who wields a dangerous substance to control the islanders amplifies the challenges faced by Jin.
Despite its narrative depth, it is unfortunate that the main story is relatively short, taking about five hours to wrap up.
9. Freedom Cry
Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag
As the sole expansion for Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag, Freedom Cry is perhaps one of the most underestimated DLCs ever created. Set over a decade after the events of the base game, it follows Adéwalé, Edward Kenway’s former quartermaster, who becomes a full-fledged Assassin in the West Indies.
This DLC takes on a powerful mission against slavery, showcasing Adéwalé’s tireless fight against the inhumane slave trade, a story element that resonates on a profound emotional level. However, it is regrettably brief, with a playtime of just five hours.
8. Tiny Tina’s Assault on Dragon Keep
Borderlands 2
For fans of Borderlands 2, the experience of playing Tiny Tina’s Assault on Dragon Keep is unforgettable. This DLC ingeniously transforms the main characters into participants of a tabletop RPG, mimicking the fun of Dungeons & Dragons, all infused with Borderlands’ signature humor.
As the Dungeon Master, Tiny Tina crafts a narrative that is both whimsical and chaotic, playfully referencing key events from the base game. Additionally, the DLC’s mechanics—such as dual skill points and generous loot drops—add layers of enjoyment, inviting players to experiment with unconventional builds. It’s a delightful playground for both new and experienced players.
7. The Ballad of Gay Tony
Grand Theft Auto IV
The Ballad of Gay Tony is an outstanding expansion to Grand Theft Auto IV, and I must admit I found it more engaging than the main storyline. Unlike Niko Bellic, protagonist Luis Lopez navigates a glamorous yet perilous nightlife in Liberty City, managing two nightclubs alongside Tony Prince.
This DLC immerses players in a fast-paced narrative filled with both action and extravagant escapades, blending crime, nightlife, and chaotic party scenes into an exhilarating experience. Nostalgia runs high as the expansion reintroduces classic gameplay mechanics like parachutes and hilarious cheats, ensuring a good balance of fun and nostalgia.
6. The Fate of Atlantis
Assassin’s Creed Odyssey
The Fate of Atlantis is a personal favorite among Ubisoft’s DLC offerings due to its breathtaking scope and design. After investing about 100 hours into Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, I was initially hesitant to dive into this new content but found it surprisingly refreshing.
With stunning environments like Elysium and Atlantis, this expansion showcases some of the most beautiful landscapes in the series. The introduction of new enemies and unique challenges adds exciting dynamics to gameplay, and facing off against mythological figures such as Cerberus enhances the experience.
5. Echoes of the Eye
Outer Wilds
For those who appreciate curiosity-driven narratives, Outer Wilds offers a remarkably profound experience, significantly enriched by its DLC, Echoes of the Eye. This expansion unveils a hidden world, the Stranger, constructed by a newly encountered alien race.
The narrative explores intriguing themes like change, memory preservation, and the fear of the unknown, while players dive deep into this mysterious civilization. With over 8 hours of gameplay, it significantly amplifies the original title’s depth and emotional resonance.
4. Phantom Liberty
Cyberpunk 2077
Describing Phantom Liberty feels similar to finally experiencing what I expected upon the release of Cyberpunk 2077. Released three years after the initial game, this DLC introduces vital upgrades across the board. Night City feels alive with a more competent AI, and players gain a brand-new relic for enhancing cyberware abilities.
In terms of storytelling, it crafts an engaging espionage thriller narrative, featuring unexpected twists and multiple endings, with a prominent performance from Idris Elba. Adding a new, somber ending to the original game gives players even more reason to revisit this title.
3. Undead Nightmare
Red Dead Redemption
My first experience with Undead Nightmare from the original Red Dead Redemption was filled with laughter and joy, leaving a lasting impression. This unique expansion offers an alternate reality set against a backdrop of a zombie apocalypse, where John Marston must navigate a familiar yet terrifying landscape overtaken by the undead.
The humor is abundant, as shown when chaos ensues immediately in familial settings, like uncle biting Abigail. Every side quest matches the absurdity of this premise, imbuing the entire experience with an irresistible charm reminiscent of 80s horror films.
2. Shadow of the Erdtree
Ring of Fire
No expansion from FromSoftware ever disappoints, and Shadow of the Erdtree continues that legacy with stunningly remarkable experiences. This DLC for Elden Ring elevates an already exceptional game, surpassing all previously set expectations.
From its extraordinary level design to its captivating soundtrack and art direction, players are treated to jaw-dropping moments throughout gameplay—discovering Shaman Village and battling fierce foes. This expansion truly exemplifies the pinnacle of game design.
1. Blood and Wine
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt
Unquestionably, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt ranks among the greatest open-world games ever, making expansions for this title highly anticipated. CD Projekt Red not only met this demand but exceeded it with two exceptional DLCs, one of which is Blood and Wine.
This expansion introduces over 20 hours of gameplay, set in the picturesque region of Toussaint, where Geralt must unravel a series of murders linked to intricate vampire lore and royal secrets. The narrative is rife with surprising twists and richly developed characters, making it a fitting conclusion to Geralt’s journey. The fairy tale sequence offers a distinctly imaginative experience that has left an unwavering mark on my gaming memory.
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