As we bid farewell to 2024, the year has proven to be modest in terms of downloadable content (DLC) offerings. Yet, amidst a smaller number of releases, the quality of certain DLCs has elevated the gaming experience, even drawing accolades at The Game Awards for their excellence. Here’s a curated list of the standout DLCs that made waves this year, ensuring there’s something for every gamer—from hidden indie gems to monumental AAA titles.
8 Rise of Ix
Dune: Empire
Originally launched as a board game expansion in 2022, Dune: Imperium’s Rise of Ix made its way to the digital realm in 2024. The game builds on the strong strategic foundation of the franchise and embraces the visual aesthetic of Denis Villeneuve’s cinematic adaptation.
This inaugural digital expansion introduces an innovative tech tree inspired by the planet Ix, alongside new ships, leaders, abilities, and an additional game mode that accommodates more players. It’s a must-play for fans seeking to deepen their strategic mastery.
7 Space Age
Factorio
Factorio remains a double-edged sword, with some players viewing it as a riveting resource management game, while others see it as an addictive time sink. The release of the Space Age DLC in October added substantial depth to the experience.
Explorers can now venture to four new planets, each teeming with unique challenges, such as Fulgora—a desert littered with remnants of an alien civilization and marked by endless lightning storms. The expansion shifts the focus from mere rocket launches to constructing a comprehensive space platform, requiring players to adapt and optimize their factory operations.
6 Frontline-59 Campaign
Project Wingman
After four years of intense aerial combat, Project Wingman has showcased its grit against heavyweights like Bandai Namco’s Ace Combat. The Frontline-59 campaign invites pilots into the action-packed battles of the forgotten Magadan Front, syncing beautifully with the main storyline.
Players assume the role of a resilient Pacific Federation pilot as they engage in adrenaline-fueled encounters, complete with colossal boss planes and exhilarating flight sequences encapsulating extreme environments.
5 Winds of Change
Regiments
Launched in 2022, Regiments redefined the real-time strategy genre with its user-friendly interface and realistic combat mechanics. The latest Winds of Change DLC expands the content through fresh units and unique nations, particularly highlighting the distinctive aesthetics of the French Army from the late 1980s.
However, the true triumph lies in the new War Paths mode. This innovative dynamic campaign generator offers stellar replay value and showcases procedural generation at its finest, making Regiments an exemplary title in the modern strategy revival.
4 Dawntrail
Final Fantasy XIV
This year has been a monumental journey for Final Fantasy enthusiasts, marked most notably by the release of Dawntrail for Final Fantasy XIV. Riding high on the excitement of Final Fantasy VII Rebirth earlier in the year, this expansion has captured the community’s attention.
Dawntrail moves away from the doom-laden narratives typical of previous installments, opting instead for a more subdued storytelling approach that highlights character development and narrative depth. This emphasis on storytelling, combined with stunning visuals and an evocative soundtrack, makes it a remarkable addition to the franchise.
3 The Lake House
Alan Wake II
Remedy Entertainment continues to astound with compelling narratives across its IPs. The The Lake House DLC for Alan Wake II immerses players deeper into the eerie confines of the Cauldron Lake facility, taking on the role of FBC agent Kiran Estevez.
This chilling experience challenges players to navigate the foreboding halls of the research facility, which masterfully blends tension and enjoyment. The absence of superhuman powers forces players to rely on cunning tactics to survive, making every encounter an exhilarating test of skill.
2 Shadow of the Erdtree
Fire Ring
Unlike many DLCs that fade into obscurity, Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree has resonated powerfully within the gaming community, earning four nominations at The Game Awards. Players are treated with over 40 new bosses and an intricately designed Realm of Shadow that expands upon the original experience in unforgettable ways.
Despite some performance hiccups, watching the artistic elevation of this DLC unfold is certainly worth the venture, solidifying its status as a standout within 2024’s lineup.
1 The War Within
World of Warcraft
The year 2024 celebrated the 20th anniversary of World of Warcraft, marked by the much-anticipated release of The War Within. This expansion broke the mold, earning accolades for being one of the finest updates in many years.
What sets The War Within apart is its accessibility: players who may not want to dedicate countless hours can still engage meaningfully with the story and content through newfound NPC allies. The expansion showcases artistic advancements and emotionally charged cutscenes that resonate deeply, truly feeling like a heartfelt celebration of the long-standing franchise.
World of Warcraft not only endures but evolves, making its anniversary celebration a joyful experience for dedicated and new players alike.
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