Downloadable content
Overview
Downloadable content (DLC) is additional content created for an already released video game. It is distributed through the Internet by the game's official publisher or other third party content producers. Downloadable content can be of several types, ranging from aesthetic outfit changes to a new, extensive storyline, similar to an expansion pack. As such, DLC may add new game modes, objects, levels, challenges or other features to a complete, already released game. It is a popular method of extending a game's lifespan and providing continued revenue for a game's developer and publisher.
History
The concept of downloadable content proliferated with the proliferation of Internet and its increasing speed. The first downloadable content were small features, such as additional levels or items, for games that were primarily played on PCs. With the advent of broadband internet and the increasing capabilities of consoles to connect to the internet, downloadable content became more popular and began to involve more substantial additions to games.
Types of Downloadable Content
There are several types of downloadable content, each offering different additions to the base game. These include:
Expansion Packs
An expansion pack is a large amount of content added to a game, usually adding new gameplay mechanics, levels, items, characters, and/or an extended storyline. Expansion packs typically require the base game to play and are often released a significant amount of time after the base game.
Add-Ons
Add-ons are smaller pieces of downloadable content that add less content than expansion packs. They may add new items, characters, or minor gameplay changes, but do not typically add a significant amount of new content. Add-ons are often released more frequently than expansion packs.
Microtransactions
Microtransactions are small, often cosmetic changes that can be purchased for a game. These can include new outfits for characters, new color schemes, or other aesthetic changes. Microtransactions are often used in free-to-play games as a way for developers to earn revenue.
Season Passes
A season pass is a form of downloadable content that allows the purchaser to receive all of the planned downloadable content for a game for a one-time fee. This often includes all add-ons, expansion packs, and sometimes exclusive bonuses not available otherwise.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Downloadable content has both advantages and disadvantages for both developers and players.
Advantages
For developers, downloadable content provides a way to generate ongoing revenue from a game after its initial sale. It also allows developers to continue to provide new content and experiences for players, keeping them engaged with the game for a longer period of time.
For players, downloadable content can provide new experiences and extend the lifespan of a game. It allows players to continue to enjoy a game they like without having to purchase a completely new game.
Disadvantages
For developers, creating downloadable content requires ongoing work and resources. There is also the risk that the content will not be well-received by players, potentially damaging the reputation of the game or the developer.
For players, there is often a cost associated with downloadable content, which can add up over time. There is also the risk that the content will not live up to expectations, or that it will alter the game in ways that the player does not enjoy.
Business Models
There are several business models associated with downloadable content. These include:
Free DLC
Some downloadable content is offered for free. This is often used as a goodwill gesture by developers, or as a way to keep players engaged with a game. Free DLC can include new levels, characters, items, or other game features.
Paid DLC
Most downloadable content is offered for a fee. This can range from small charges for minor additions, to larger fees for substantial additions like expansion packs. The price of downloadable content is often a point of contention among players, with some feeling that it is too high.
Microtransactions
As mentioned earlier, microtransactions are small, often cosmetic changes that can be purchased for a game. These are often used in free-to-play games as a way for developers to earn revenue.
Controversies
Downloadable content has been the subject of several controversies. These often revolve around the price of the content, the amount of content offered, and the perceived value of the content. Some players feel that downloadable content is a way for developers to charge for content that should have been included in the base game, or to continue to charge for a game that the player has already purchased.
Future of Downloadable Content
The future of downloadable content is likely to continue to evolve as technology and player expectations change. It is likely that downloadable content will continue to be a major part of the gaming industry, providing ongoing revenue for developers and new experiences for players.