This year has been a remarkable one for gaming enthusiasts, showcasing an impressive array of new titles, alongside unexpected, yet highly-anticipated, downloadable content (DLC) expansions for existing games. Whether players were thrilled by new adventures or were eagerly awaiting additional content for their favorite games, the gaming landscape was vibrant and full of surprises.
Alan Wake 2: Night Springs (8.5/10)
This year featured two exceptional DLC expansions for Alan Wake 2, with “Night Springs”making a significant impact, surpassing the previous expansion, “The Lake House.”Both DLCs seamlessly integrated into the established Remedy universe, offering a compelling narrative filled with unexpected twists and engaging gameplay.
Distinctly different from its parent game, “Night Springs”shifts focus away from the main characters, presenting journeys centered around three unique protagonists, including Jesse Faden from Control. While it retains gameplay nuances reminiscent of the North Star episode, this particular installment elevates the experience, blending various artistic styles that enhance its visual appeal and make it a worthwhile addition to any player’s library.
Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree (10/10)
Launching with immense anticipation, “Shadow of the Erdtree”stands as a phenomenal expansion for the base game, Elden Ring. Providing an abundance of content that rivals the value of a full game, it recently received a laudatory perfect score from well-respected reviewer Francesco De Meo.
The expansion epitomizes excellence in open-world game design, showcasing the ongoing superiority of the Elden Ring experience over competitors. While some might critique its lack of groundbreaking innovation and technical issues, the introduction of formidable new bosses and deepening lore enriches the gameplay. Players can now confront some of the toughest foes in the Elden Ring universe, alongside fresh leveling systems to bolster their journey through this much-loved world.
Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail
This year also brought forth “Dawntrail,”the new expansion for the beloved MMORPG Final Fantasy XIV. This latest DLC deserves recognition, although it may not fully match the towering standards set by previous expansions like Shadowbringers or Endwalker. Nevertheless, like its predecessors, it features enjoyable content that keeps players engaged.
Dawntrail introduces exciting new jobs, such as the Viper and Pictomancer, offering fresh gameplay opportunities and enhancing the overall experience for players looking to explore new class dynamics within the game.
Dredge: The Iron Rig
Blending the “cozy”game genre with elements of horror, Dredge delivers an intriguing solo fishing adventure that offers more than meets the eye. As players immerse themselves in fishing escapades, they quickly discover Lovecraftian horrors lurking beneath the waves, adding a thrilling twist to this seemingly quaint quest.
The expansion, The Iron Rig, introduces additional gameplay hours, new destinations, and 50 fresh fish to catch, catering especially to those who appreciate the fishing mechanics of the base game. This focused approach ensures that players who love the fishing element will find ample enjoyment in this update.
World of Warcraft: The War Within (9.5/10)
Despite some past criticisms, particularly surrounding discontent with expansions like Shadowlands, World of Warcraft rebounds with “The War Within,”an expansion that introduces an engaging new antagonist from the Void and offers visually stunning new environments. While certain areas may experience performance issues, overall, the expansion provides a plethora of enjoyable side quests, daily missions, and a rewarding main campaign that is continually evolving.
Emphasizing accessibility, “The War Within”caters not just to hardcore raiders but also to those who relish questing and cooperative play with fewer stakes, enhancing the enjoyment for a broader audience. This feedback emphasizes how well-received the expansion has been, highlighting rewarding mount grinds and surprisingly endearing companions throughout the storytelling experience.
Community Poll
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Honorable Mentions
Several other expansions and DLC released this year are certainly worth mentioning, as they may have slipped under the radar for some gamers.
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