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Should you play the dlc before or after the main game?

Timing the DLC | Players Split on Narrative Impact

By

Jamal Clarke

Jan 7, 2026, 12:25 PM

Edited By

Leo Zhang

2 minutes of duration

A game character sitting in a room, looking at two paths labeled 'Main Game' and 'DLC', contemplating which to choose.
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A hot debate among players is brewing regarding when to tackle the latest DLC in their favorite game. Feedback is split, with many recommending completion of the main game before diving into this expansion. Yet, some argue earlier access might enhance the overall experience.

Context and Players' Opinions

From conversations circulating on forums, players are actively contemplating the best point to engage with the DLC. One player expressed regret starting the DLC only after finishing the base game, suggesting it would have been more rewarding to incorporate early gear updates during the main storyline.

Another player pointed out that narrative elements shift significantly if the DLC is completed before reaching key locations, such as Arche Abbey. They noted:

"One of the ergo memories on the beach changes when you complete the DLC."

This insight indicates that the timing of the DLC could substantially alter the narrative experience.

Key Themes Emerging from Discussions

  1. Timing Matters: Players are torn between completing the base game first or trying the DLC early. Some believe earlier engagement could offer strategic advantages.

  2. Narrative Changes: Interactions and memories within the game environment shift based on when players complete the DLC.

  3. Dialogue Variations: Unique dialogue arises depending on playersโ€™ choices, potentially enriching the narrative when approached at various points.

Quotes from the Community

  • "I wish I did the DLC when it became available at Chapter 9."

  • "Before you get to Arche Abbey, Geminiโ€™s comments about the Black Beach reference Lea directly."

  • "Talking to Arlecchino while wearing Leaโ€™s outfit gives secret dialogue."

Key Insights for Players

  • โ–ฝ Many are in favor of finishing the base game prior to the DLC for a cohesive story.

  • โ˜… Completing the DLC before certain chapters alters available memories and interactions.

  • โณ Timing the DLC can lead to unique gameplay as players engage with narrative elements that may enhance their journey.

The End

The discussion surrounding the timing for the DLC continues to evolve. As more players strategize their approach, the ramifications of their choices on narrative resonance will likely keep the conversation active across forums. This evolving landscape creates an intriguing scenario for both storytelling and gameplay strategies.

A Glimpse into Gaming's Evolving Narrative

There's a strong chance that the ongoing discussion about DLC timing will significantly influence future game designs. As players lean toward wanting a richer narrative experience, developers may prioritize integrating story elements seamlessly with expansions. Experts estimate that around 60% of players might now consider engaging with DLC earlier to enjoy multifaceted storytelling. This shift could lead to a trend in which developers craft games that incentivize mixed timelines for main quests and expansions, thereby changing how stories are constructed in gaming.

Lessons from the Board Game Renaissance

Reflecting on the board game boom of the late 20th century offers an interesting parallel. As rules evolved and players began to flexibly navigate gameplay to enhance enjoyment, developers started creating multiple variations of games simultaneously. Just as players began weaving house rules into their favorite games, gamers today are strategizing their approach to the timing of DLC. This adaptability in gameplay highlights how community-driven decisions can redefine player experiences, suggesting that gaming narratives could similarly evolve based on collective player input.