Releasing downloadable content (called “DLC”) for a video game seems like a common thing to do in the modern era. We see it all of the time; publishers and developers reveal their next iteration of content and offer such expanded adventures at a premium price for their loyal fans. Like it or hate it, DLC will not disappear. In fact, we have seen the idea of DLC consistently expand in the past few years with game companies offering day one DLC with their newly released video games, an utterly arbitrary and offensive practice that pushes the consumer to spend more than the already impressive $60 sum on a video game. Don’t forget your Season Pass! That will let you have access to all of the DLC! All you have to do is pay whatever price the publisher sets and you will get all of this content (good or bad) at a date the publisher decides. That’s fair, right?
I’m not bitter. Really, I’m not. I have simply grown weary of the constant barrage of advertised content that demands more money from me in order for me to fully enjoy the game and all of its planned content. Even some multiplayer games become incredibly exclusive with the release of new DLC, so much so that you may as well not even attempt to play with your friends because they want to run with the new content and you cannot afford it. It’s a problem that plagues plenty of people, but the issue stems from a much deeper problem in the industry.
The reason I bring all of this up is due to a relatively recent development by developer Relic Entertainment and publisher Sega. Their stand alone expansion known as Dawn of War II – Retribution was released on March 1, 2011, over five years ago from the time this article was written. Retribution saw positive reviews and had a decent launch, but what captured many people’s attention about the Dawn of War II series of games was the cooperative survival mode called “The Last Stand.” You and two friends play as a hero from one of the races featured in the game and work to survive the growing onslaught of enemies. Over time, you gain levels and can equip more powerful and unique equipment. Really, it’s hilariously fun.
Some time ago, Relic released the Tau Commander for purchase through the Steam store and he played incredibly well (maybe a little too well) as well as a slew of DLC for some of the factions to alter the cosmetic appearance of multiplayer characters and units. This doesn’t differ from many games as developers will release cosmetic packs that don’t alter the play of the game. We’ve grown used to such things and we shouldn’t expect this practice to ever disappear. Personally, I like that the developer is willing to design other faction-specific gear and units. It doesn’t change the gameplay but it makes you stand out or allows you to represent your favorite faction.
On March 10th, Relic surprised many in the Dawn of War community by releasing a new hero for their Last Stand mode. Five years into the life of Retribution, we get to see the very beefy and incredibly hard to kill Necron Overlord storm the arena! Trust me, he is a monster! Loaded with abilities that increase his health regeneration, offer area denial, or can resurrect teammates, he really adds wonderful flavor to the meta of the game. It is a shame, however, that Relic didn’t give this character any dialogue. Even the Tau Commander had several lines of script. Regardless, I adore that the developer has chosen to release this content for a game that many gamers still enjoy, but I have yet to mention the best part:
They released it FOR FREE during the Sega Publisher Weekend! Today (March 13th) is THE LAST DAY to get this content for free and keep it forever! I don’t know what the price will be when the sale ends, but I would capitalize on this deal while you can.
Don’t worry. I’m sure he’s friendly…
I greatly enjoy seeing a developer still support a game late in its life cycle. Even better, I appreciate that they do offer free content (even though it’s only for a limited time, get it now!!!). I only hope that other developers will see how this affects their community and how it instills a great deal of loyalty among their fans. Hurry everyone! Grab that free Necron Overlord and join me for some Last Stand!
Victorus aut Mortis!
-Valiant