Can I Play DLC Without the Base Game? No, Here‘s Why

ByJames Dorn Last Update on

As an avid gamer and content creator focused on the latest gaming news and releases, this is a question I see popped up frequently regarding downloadable content (DLC). The short answer is no: game publishers intentionally design DLC to integrate with and enhance specific game titles, so you must own the base game first to access additional content.

But why is this the case? What happens if you try installing DLC without owning the main game first? As a passionate gamer myself, I totally get the enthusiasm to jump right into new DLC drops. In this comprehensive guide, I‘ll cover everything you need to know about properly accessing game DLC.

DLC 101 – What is Game DLC and How Does it Work?

For those unfamiliar, DLC stands for "downloadable content" – extra content for an existing video game you can access by online download. This includes new features like additional levels, characters, gear, game modes or story expansions that go beyond the original title.

DLC first emerged in the early 2000s as broadband internet became widespread, allowing developers to regularly update titles post-launch. One of the first notable DLC releases was the Mysteries of Westgate module for Neverwinter Nights in 2003, which added 15+ hours of new story content.

Flash forward to today: DLC is more popular than ever, with major game releases planning for multiple DLC packs during a title‘s lifecycle. Across all platforms, gamers spent a record $10.7 billion on digital gaming content including DLC and subscriptions in 2019 according to SuperData, and growth shows no signs of slowing.

So why can‘t you simply download any DLC you want as soon as it drops? DLC is designed to seamlessly integrate with the base game‘s code, art assets, progression systems and lore. Without owning the foundational main game first, DLC content would have no context or functionality.

It‘s like building an add-on room to a house before the foundation and walls exist! Game publishers have no incentive to allow access to standalone DLC, since bundling this content with main games drives higher revenue.

What Happens If You Try Installing DLC Without the Base Game

Most digital gaming platforms actively block attempts to download DLC unless you also own the associated title.

For example, the screenshot below shows what happens if you try accessing a Far Cry 6 DLC on Ubisoft Connect without owning the base game:

Far Cry 6 DLC Error

The platform clearly states you‘re missing the required base game to play this additional content. Similarly, Steam displays the following warning if you try to purchase DLC for an unowned game:

Steam DLC Warning

While PlayStation Network, Nintendo eShop and other platforms will let you purchase DLC without verifying if you own the main game, the extra content will remain locked and inaccessible.

By preventing access to DLC unless you satisfy the base game requirement, publishers reduce piracy risks and guarantee you experience the content fully as intended when bundled together.

Accessing DLC the Right Way

I totally understand the excitement around hot new DLC drops – who doesn‘t want even more awesome adventures with favorite characters or expanded worlds to explore?

To access DLC properly, first purchase and install the main game it was developed for on your preferred console or PC platform. Popular franchises like Call of Duty, The Witcher, Mario Kart, Civilization and more release DLC packs assuming you‘re already familiar with and invested in the base title.

Once you have the foundation game installed, then go ahead and grab any related DLC! For digital purchases, the new content will automatically download and integrate itself upon purchase or within a few minutes. For physical disc copies, you may need to manually check for updates to trigger DLC downloads.

Immediately jumping into buying DLC is understandable for big fans, but be patient! Acquire the core game first to fully leverage those exciting DLC expansions.

I hope this comprehensive DLC guide brings valuable clarity for gamers eager to expand their interactive adventures. As our community‘s passion and advocacy continues fueling incredible gaming content, remember to always access and support titles legally so creators can keep doing what they love.

Let‘s get back to playing while eagerly awaiting whatever awesome new drops come next! What DLC release are you most hyped for? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

James K. Dorn, a passionate gamer deeply immersed in the world of video gaming. My journey in gaming is not just about playing; it's about exploring every facet of the games I love. I am particularly fascinated by the intricate worlds of role-playing games like "The Witcher" series and "Elder Scrolls: Skyrim," where every decision shapes the story.

As a strategy game enthusiast, I spend hours devising tactics in games like "Civilization VI" and "StarCraft II," always eager to share my strategies with fellow gamers. I'm also an ardent follower of the ever-evolving landscape of indie games, finding gems like "Hollow Knight" and "Celeste" that offer unique, compelling experiences.

My content isn't just reviews; it's about deep dives into game mechanics, storytelling, and the art of game design. I love dissecting the narratives of games like "The Last of Us" and discussing the innovative gameplay of titles like "Death Stranding."

Being at the forefront of gaming news, I eagerly anticipate and share insights on upcoming releases like the next big open-world adventure or the latest in the "Final Fantasy" series. My goal is to build a community where we not only play games but also appreciate the artistry and effort behind them. Join me in this gaming journey, where every session is an adventure, and every game is a story waiting to be told.

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