2024 has been a big year for video game DLCs, with expansions likeElden Ring’s Shadow of the Erdtree being recognized as one of the best video game DLCs ever made. Ultimately, what it takes for avideo game DLCto be considered great is whether it feels essential rather than optional, and plenty of expansions released in 2024 have managed to achieve that.
POSSIBLE SPOILERS AHEAD
2024 has ten standout DLCs, ranging from massive world-building expansions to engaging narratives. Each has contributed something significant to its base game—not just extending playtime but enhancing the overall experience.These DLCs are shining examples of how supplementary content can elevate a game to new heights, whether through deep storytelling, innovative gameplay mechanics, or stunning new environments.Each of the DLCs listed is presented in alphabetical order.
Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree
When it comes to 2024’s best video game DLCs, it’s almost impossible not to think ofElden Ring’s Shadow of the Erdtree DLC. Recognized as thehighest-rated video game DLC ever made, there is little doubt that it tops the list of expansions released in 2024. Shadow of the Erdtree takes players beyond the Lands Between to the Realm of Shadow, a new area that is central to the overarching story. It revolves around Miquella, a god-like figure and brother to Malenia, who was introduced in the base game but never fully explored.
What ultimately sets Shadow of the Erdtree apart from other DLCs in 2024 is its amount of content and faithfulness toElden Ring’s formula. At the same time, it innovates onElden Ring’s formula with more verticality in its world than the base game, as well as an increased challenge to level the playing field.
Destiny 2: The Final Shape
Destiny 2’s latest expansion, The Final Shape, was a long time coming ahead of its release, aiming to conclude the decade-long Light and Darkness Saga that the franchise began when the originalDestinylaunched in 2014. In The Final Shape’s campaign, players were brought face-to-face with the Witness in the Traveler’s mysterious Pale Heart, which not only served as a new destination forDestiny 2but also some of the most creative and captivating world designs the franchise has ever seen. While the player count dwindled just a few weeks after its release, The Final Shape has still been widely recognized as one ofDestiny 2’s best expansions, so it is more than deserving to be recognized as one of 2024’s best video game DLCs.
Diablo 4: Vessel of Hatred
Due to it belonging to a live-service game,Diablo 4’s Vessel of Hatred expansion had a similar story toDestiny 2’s Final Shape DLC, in that it started off strong but dwindled shortly after. That being said, Vessel of Hatred did introduce theSpiritborn class toDiablo 4, which was arguably its biggest selling point. The Spiritborn is one ofDiablo’s most versatile classes to date, considerably increasing the expansion’s appeal. Vessel of Hatred also introduced the primal jungle of Nahantu to the game, which brilliantly contrasted the dark world of Sanctuary players had spent time in before. Alongside a new region and class,Diablo 4’s Vessel of Hatred expansion brought with it extensive updates to systems like Paragon boards, itemization, and class abilities, reinforcing its position among the best DLCs of 2024.
Final Fantasy 16: The Rising Tide
At the heart ofFinal Fantasy 16’s latest DLC, The Rising Tide, is an epic showdown with Leviathan, who has made regular appearances in theFinal Fantasyfranchise and was therefore highly anticipated ahead of The Rising Tide’s release. Set before the final chapter ofFinal Fantasy 16’s main story, The Rising Tide delves into the mystery surrounding Leviathan’s Dominant and its place in Valisthea’s lore. In addition to a climactic and challenging battle against Leviathan, The Rising Tide also introduced a new region, new weapons and skills, and new narrative threads that deepen thebeloved protagonist, Clive Rosfield. Arguably topping the DLC that came before it, Echoes of the Fallen, The Rising Tide is worthy of being recognized as one of 2024’s best video game DLCs.
Alan Wake 2: The Lake House
Alan Wake 2’s second DLC, The Lake House, serves as a pivotal narrative bridge betweenRemedy Entertainment’s interconnected universes ofAlan WakeandControl, automatically making it worth a play for fans of both franchises. The story shifts focus to Federal Bureau of Control (FBC) Agent Kiran Estevez as she investigates the Lake House, a secret FBC facility located near Cauldron Lake. Players explore how the facility’s experiments with the lake’s supernatural properties went wrong, unleashing threats and creating new, terrifying enemies called “The Painted.” The Lake House combinesAlan Wake 2’s atmospheric survival horror withControl’sunique environmental design to produce one of 2024’s best video game DLCs.
World of Warcraft: The War Within
Serving as the tenthexpansion pack forWorld of Warcraft, The War Within takes players beneath Azeroth’s surface to explore Khaz Algar, where they join Anduin, Jaina, and Thrall to rally the Earthen and other allies to confront Xal’atath and the Void’s growing influence. Apart from its engaging narrative, The War Within has been praised for its solo-friendly Delves, as well as its new playable race and new features like Hero Talents. Its deep lore and innovative mechanics make it a standout addition toWorld of Warcraftand a worthy addition to the list of 2024’s best video game DLCs.
Final Fantasy 14: Dawntrail
Final Fantasy 14’s Dawntrail expansion is the MMO’s fifth expansion, and it takes players to the western continent of Tural, where players determine who will lead this united nation of varied peoples. Along the way, players explore new regions like the verdant Kozama’uka forests and the majestic city of Tuliyollal. While the expansion has proven to be divisive among fans, there is no ignoring the fresh content it adds to the base game, including twonew jobs, Viper and Pictomancer, alongside a level cap increase and enhanced graphics, marking the game’s first visual overhaul since its initial release. These aspects, as well as updated gameplay systems and innovative content for crafters and gatherers, make it stand out among 2024’s best video game DLCs.
Building upon Atlus’Persona 3 Reloadremake,Episode Aigisoffers an additional story centered on the robotic SEES member, Aigis. This DLC provides a deeper look at her character’s evolution and the challenges she faces in coming to terms with her humanity. The story complements the base game’s themes of self-discovery and camaraderie, while introducing new gameplay elements tailored to her unique combat abilities. With rich narrative depth and gameplay enhancements,Episode Aigisis a must-have for fans, adding significant replay value to the already beloved remake.
Dead Island 2has had robust post-launch supportsince its April 2023 launch, and that includes the SOLA Festival DLC. SOLA Festival brings players to a chaotic music festival in Los Angeles, where they encounter new zombies and friendly but eccentric NPCs. Ultimately, players are sent there to uncover the truth behind a sinister plot while navigating the festival grounds now filled with dangerous enemies and fresh challenges. While it doesn’t necessarily do anything to expand on or resolve the base game’s story,Dead Island 2’s SOLA Festival does enhance the core game experience with new weapons, skills, and environments.
Vampire Survivors Castlevania DLC
A bit of an unexpected addition to the list of 2024’s best video game DLCs isVampire Survivors’CastlevaniaDLC, Ode to Castlevania, which effortlessly blendsVampire Survivors' signature pixel-art chaos with iconic gothic elements inspired by theCastlevaniaseries. In the DLC, players battle through dark castles, battle legendary monsters, and acquire new weapons steeped in vampire lore. The DLC expands on the original game’s roguelike gameplay by introducing fresh characters, stages, and abilities, offering a nostalgic yet innovative experience that can appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers. Overall, there are plenty of reasons why it would be considered one of 2024’s best DLCs.
