What does Standard Edition mean for games?

As both an avid gamer and creator, I‘ve noticed some confusion around what a "standard edition" video game actually includes. Is it just the base experience? What do you miss out on? I‘m here to clear up the details once and for all!

What‘s in a Standard Edition?

The standard edition for any video game refers simply to the default core game with no extras included. This is the baseline option that publishers offer and typically the most affordable version.

• Includes main game only, no supplemental content
• Usually cheapest version available
• Typically $59.99 USD for new releases
• Offered both physically and digitally
• Provides primary gameplay experience

So in essence, you‘re getting access to the fundamental game itself – all gameplay modes, core story and features. But none of the bonus add-ons some pricier editions may tout.

Contrasting Other Editions

To fully appreciate the standard edition, it helps to compare what else is out there:

Deluxe Edition:

• Extra in-game content like skins, weapons etc
• Early unlock privileges
• Digital soundtracks or artbooks
• Usually $10-20 more than standard

Collector‘s Edition:

• Physical items like figurines, posters
• Unique steelcases or packaging
• Can cost over $100 more than standard

Game of the Year (GOTY) Edition:

• Base game plus all released DLC
• Bundle that launches later in cycle
• Discounted compared to buying separately

Pricing Breakdown

To visualize the differences, here‘s a comparison of launch day prices across some popular 2022 titles:

As shown above, the more content and physical goods included, the higher the prices climb.

Benefits of Standard Edition

So why might gamers opt for the standard edition?

• Budget-Friendly – Great option for budget-conscious
• Core Experience – Focus on primary gameplay, not extras
• Flexible – Can upgrade to deluxe/DLC later
• Widely Available – Easy to obtain physically or digitally
• Less Clutter – No shelves of statues/books if going digital

The lower price point appeals to frugal gamers or parents buying for kids. And the base game is still fully functional for those less concerned with cosmetics or soundtracks.

Down the road, many publishers let you upgrade to deluxe editions or buy missed DLC a la carte. So you aren‘t necessarily locked out of future content.

Drawbacks of Standard Edition

However, there are some potential disadvantages:

• Fear of Missing Out – Cool stuff locked behind paywall
• Upsell Tactics – Constant prompts to upgrade
• Less Resale Value – Collector‘s retain more value
• Fragmented Experience – Buying DLC separately can be costly

Gamers who care about customization or unlocking everything may feel pressured to pony up for the deluxe edition out of the gate. And some titles frequently push paid cosmetics, season passes, etc.

Collectors editions tend to retain resale value better as well. So if you ever intend to sell the game later, the standard edition may be less ideal.

The Bottom Line

Standard edition games cater to the masses – those who want the complete gameplay experience without breaking the bank on fluff. As a budget gamer myself, I almost always spring for the standard edition. Third-party DLC and upgrades can come later, if I even deem them necessary.

For collectors or completionists, the standard may be frustrating. But for the everyday gaming enthusiast like myself, it‘s the perfect entry point into new titles.

Some predict staggered releases and multiple editions will decline moving forward. But for now, the standard edition remains the affordable backbone of the industry.