Validating Value: DLC Practices In The Current Generation

The evolution of DLC has certainly been an interesting development in gaming. Short for down loadable content, DLC practices have created quite a series of interesting events..most being unfortunate. 

The beginning of DLC...wasn't really DLC but pre-developed content that was locked behind a paywall. Once these practices were revealed to players, you would imagine that certain outrage ensued. 

Granted, the method used to deliver DLC was atrocious but it was not as bad as how certain developers chose to package their content often times making you purchase several things you did not want to get that one thing you did. 

 

Things have certainly improved in this current generation but that is often dependent upon what they initially offer. In my opinion, the biggest issue that plagues DLC at the moment is suspected value. 

The supply for video games certainly overshadow the demand within this generation of gaming. Game sales happen almost periodically every month. Having a full gaming experience for less than $5 has certainly become plausible especially with the influx of independent game developers so it is a bit of an enigma when you start to put DLC prices under the microscope. 

Obviously, creating additional content takes resources and when it comes to certain assets like that of a character, who can honestly be considered a game in of its self at times, you can generally make an argument for the value. 

It's only when we get into certain set pieces like costumes and colors that I start to take an issue with how developers value these extras. What is great about the option that DLC provides, is the fact that I do not have to pay for it and it will not completely hamper the experience but it can certainly be somewhat frustrating especially when you see something you would happily purchase if the price felt right. 

Of course, if the initial game doesn't make its targeted sales goal it may in some ways affect the price of any additional content but why put that burden on those willing to continue the support for your game? 

Generally, you still have to speak with your wallet and it may be that the majority of players are fine with the way things are at the moment but personally, I still want to see things make a little more sense moving forward.