Downloadable content, as a concept, has had a bit of a shaky reputation over the last few decades. Starting life as "expansions," DLC used to be regarded as big updates to already beloved games, giving fans even more of what they loved previously. In the last decade or so, DLC has often been linked with greedy publisher practices, with the likes of EA locking vital content behind a paywall.
Thankfully, DLC seems to be moving more towards its roots, as over the last few years, DLC offerings have been a little more substantial. Ghost of Tsushima's Iki Island expansion, Final Fantasy 7 Remake's Intermission update, and all of No Man's Sky's slew of updates all prove that DLC is becoming a worthwhile product once more. To continue the trend, this Summer is filled with exciting, and expansive DLCs for some of the best games around.
The Elder Scrolls Online: High Isle
Taking place in the Breton homeland of The Systres Archipelago, The Elder Scrolls Online: High Isle looks to be adding a significant amount of new content to the now eight-year-old game. Apparently, High Isle will add dozens of hours of story content to the game, ensnaring the player in a mysterious conspiracy that threatens the political landscape of all Tamriel.
Players will be able to explore the Mediterranean-inspired island freely, and participate in a brand new 12-person Trial raid called the "Dreadsail Reef." Two new companions are being added with this expansion, including a Khajiit sorcerer and a Breton knight.
One of the more substantial additions High Isle is bringing is an expansive new card game named Tales of Tribute. As well as PvE and PvP options, Tales of Tribute will have its own complex progression system, which will give players unique rewards as they ascend the ranks.
A plethora of new Breton-themed weapons and armors are heading to Elder Scrolls Online with this High Isle expansion, along with new world events that see volcanic fissures erupting around the new islands. Elder Scrolls Online: High Isle is set to release June 6 on PC and Mac, and June 21 for consoles.
Outriders: Worldslayer
Square Enix's Outriders is also receiving a pretty big update this Summer. Titled Worldslayer, this expansion will be available for all players on its June 30 launch, boosting underleveled characters to level 30. Worldslayer brings a whole new, standalone campaign to Outriders, fleshing out the backstory of the planet Enoch, and a mysterious new Altered foe.
New armors, weapons, and mods are coming with the Worldslayer update, resulting in over 100 new Legendary items being added. Two new progression systems are also being implemented, with the first being the PAX system, which gives players over level 30 new upgrades based on the subclass they choose. Players over level 30 will also earn xp for their Ascension Level, which will grant them additional skill points.
Cuphead: The Delicious Last Course
One of the most highly anticipated DLCs of the last few years, Cuphead: The Delicious Last Course is finally releasing this Summer, on June 30. New bosses, weapons, and a whole new island come to Cuphead with this DLC.
A new playable character, Ms. Chalice is also being added to the game, who utilizes a unique moveset and abilities that differ from Cuphead's and Mugman's. A new NPC, Chef Saltbaker will also make an appearance, aiding the player with new upgrades and consumables.
Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak
Also slated for a June 30 release date, Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak takes players on a journey to the mountainous Elgado Outpost, where they'll encounter the monstrous Three Lords. Based on Western horror icons, these Three Lords should pose a significant challenge, even to those who've bested the rest of Monster Hunter Rise's roster.
To battle these new monsters, Monster Hunter Rise: Sunbreak is also bringing a range of new weapons, armors, and combat abilities to the game. With new locales, towering monsters, and a slew of new gear, there should be plenty for Monster Hunter fans to sink their teeth into.