Downloadable Content, or DLC, has become increasing common in the video game market.
Using a credit card, a debit card, or sometimes a prepaid card, players can purchase extra content in their game, such as equipment or more areas to explore.
In the game Super Smash Bros for the 3DS and Wii U, players can purchase extra characters or stages. Although the game is playable without any in-game purchases, many people enjoy the unique features DLC provides.
Senior Joshua Laxamana said, “I bought all of the DLC characters and the first set of stages. DLC means they can keep expanding the game, but when I feel that the game is incomplete without its DLC then I feel it’s not worth it.” The creators of Super Smash Bros are planning on releasing more characters in the future.when I feel that the game is incomplete without its DLC then I feel it’s not worth it.”
“…when I feel that the game is incomplete without its DLC then I feel it’s not worth it.”
Senior Joshua Laxamana
Many free to play games use DLC to earn money, but this often leads to “pay to play” games, where people who buy DLC get an unfair advantage over those who do not. Senior Hellen Chen said, “Combat Arms is a free game but it used to be a pay to win game. However, recent updates have changed the system. Now, players receive a set number of items in their inventory which lasts for a few days or sometimes a week. The new format has enabled players who do not want to spend money to be able to play without being overpowered by users who buy better equipment.”
Some game franchises even require players to buy physical products to play their digital games. Skylanders, a toy-based video game aimed at a young demographic, sells action figures that are linked to characters in the game. Unless players purchase the action figures, they cannot play the game.
At the end of the day, the choice to spend extra money on a video game is completely up to players. Laxamana said, “I recommend that people buy DLC to support gaming companies, but only if the game is complete to begin with.”
