Dragon’s Dogma 2 DLC Controversy Signals Need for Shift in Capcom’s DLC Approach

Since its launch earlier today, Dragon’s Dogma 2 has faced significant criticism, predominantly due to its paid downloadable content (DLC).

For those who have been following the game, you’ve likely encountered a range of reviews for Dragon’s Dogma 2, many of which have been positive, including ours. It’s important to note that the DLC available in the official store does not fit the typical definition of microtransactions. These additional purchases are not necessary to complete or fully enjoy the game. This approach to DLC is consistent with other games published by Capcom. This hasn’t helped the PC version of Dragon’s Dogma 2 from getting negative reviews on Steam.

Dragon’s Dogma 2 is designed mainly as a single-player experience, and the available DLC does not enhance this aspect in any significant way. The idea that the DLC is essential to enjoy the game is entirely unfounded. To understand why this is the case, let’s examine the list of DLC and discuss its relevance.

Dragon’s Dogma 2 DLC List

• Camping Gear
  • Explorer’s Camping Kit: $2.99 USD
• Custom Sounds
  • Dragon’s Dogma Music & Sound Collection: $2.99 USD
• Harpy Lure Item
  • Harpysnare Smoke Beacons: $0.99 USD
• Thoughtful Gift
  • Heartfelt Pendant: $1.99 USD
• Change Pawn Inclinations
  • Ambivalent Rift Incense: $1.99 USD
• Escape from Gaol
  • Makeshift Gaol Key: $0.99 USD
• Character Editor
  • Art of Metamorphosis: $1.99 USD
• Warp Location Marker
  • Portcrystal: $2.99 USD
• Restore the Dead to Life
  • Wakestone (A, B, C, D, E each): $0.99 USD
• Points to Spend Beyond the Rift
  • 500 Rift Crystals (A, B, C each): $0.99 USD
  • 1500 Rift Crystals (A, B, C, D each): $2.99 USD
  • 2500 Rift Crystals (A): $4.99 USD

Upon initially viewing the DLC for Dragon’s Dogma 2, which amounts to $41.79, it may seem excessive for a game that has been released for less than a day. However, this perspective might be misleading. The items listed as DLC are, in fact, obtainable within the game itself without additional payment.

For instance, Wakestones can be acquired by collecting Wakestone shards throughout the game. Similarly, Portcrystals, which facilitate certain gameplay mechanics, can be found by completing side quests or exploring hidden dungeons. Camping gear, another item listed, can be purchased with in-game currency or earned by completing various missions.

There is a DLC that has gained attention for its ability to modify the appearance of pawns in a game. Some may assume that it is only available to those who pay for it. However, this is not entirely true. The game has style shops where players can use in-game currency to change their pawn’s appearance. Additionally, players can use an item called the Art of Metamorphosis to completely alter the appearance of their pawn. The item can be purchased for 500 Rift Crystals in the Pawn Guild. These crystals can be obtained by engaging with rift stones scattered throughout the game’s world map, completing missions, or participating in online missions involving pawns. The important thing to note is that acquiring Rift Crystals and the ability to change pawn appearances is easily achievable through regular gameplay.

In Dragon’s Dogma 2, players can fast travel only between specific points. The first major city they encounter has a fixed Portcrystal that allows fast travel to and from the city for anyone with a Ferrystone. While Ferrystones are easily available for purchase in various shops within the game, Portcrystals are scarce but reusable. They are available as DLC too. Players can relocate them to different areas to set up new fast travel points., but they are not necessary to complete the game.

It’s also important to consider the impact of fast travel on the gameplay experience. Excessive use of fast travel might diminish the game’s appeal. During my journey through Dragon’s Dogma 2, I found that the most memorable moments were discovered while exploring the game’s world. This included stumbling upon shortcuts, finding valuable loot, and engaging in battles with formidable creatures that I would have likely missed if I relied solely on fast travel. Additionally, some side quests only initiate while exploring, suggesting that excessive use of fast travel can lead players to miss out on significant aspects of the game’s essence.

Regarding the issue of microtransactions and DLC for Dragon’s Dogma 2, there is a notable conversation to be had about Capcom’s approach to pricing these additions. This strategy is not a departure from the company’s historical practices, as evidenced by their approach in previous releases such as the Resident Evil 4 Remake and continuing with Dragon’s Dogma 2. Nonetheless, this does not detract from the fact that Dragon’s Dogma 2 can be thoroughly enjoyed without the need to spend additional money on DLC. The game is designed to be fully accessible without these purchases, ensuring players do not miss out on essential content.