Does New Game Plus Affect DLC?
When it comes to playing your favorite games, the concept of New Game Plus (NG+) adds an exciting layer of replayability. But one question that often arises among gamers is whether New Game Plus affects downloadable content (DLC). In this article, we will explore how NG+ interacts with DLCs across different games, what you can expect in terms of difficulty, rewards, and gameplay experience, and provide specific examples from popular titles. Understanding these dynamics can help you make the most out of your gaming experience, whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the NG+ and DLC landscape. Does New Game Plus Affect DLC?
What is New Game Plus?
Before diving into how New Game Plus affects DLC, it’s essential to understand what NG+ actually is. New Game Plus is a feature that allows players to start a new game after completing the main storyline, but with certain elements carried over from their previous playthrough. These elements often include your character’s level, equipment, skills, and sometimes even currency. NG+ typically offers increased difficulty, new challenges, and additional content, making it a rewarding experience for those who want to continue exploring the game world without starting from scratch.
Does New Game Plus Affect DLC?
The impact of New Game Plus on DLC varies depending on the game. In many cases, DLC content is scaled to match the NG+ settings, meaning that the enemies may be tougher, and the rewards could be greater, providing a more challenging and enriching experience. However, this isn’t always the case. Some games treat DLC independently of the main game’s NG+ mode, while others integrate the two seamlessly.
Elden Ring: A Case Study
In the highly acclaimed game Elden Ring, which features both NG+ and multiple DLCs, players often wonder how the two interact. Elden Ring’s NG+ mode increases the difficulty of the game by making enemies tougher and altering certain gameplay dynamics. This difficulty spike extends to the DLC as well, meaning that any DLC content played in NG+ will be more challenging than in the initial playthrough.
For example, if you begin a DLC in NG+, the enemies will hit harder, have more health, and the overall difficulty will be adjusted to match the NG+ settings. This not only applies to the main DLC content but also to any additional bosses or areas introduced in the DLC. However, players are rewarded for this increased difficulty with better loot, more significant challenges, and a richer overall experience.
Important: If you prefer to experience the DLC in its original difficulty, it is advisable to complete the DLC before starting NG+. Once NG+ is initiated, the difficulty settings for all game content, including the DLC, will be adjusted accordingly.
How NG+ Affects DLC in Other Games
While Elden Ring serves as a prominent example, other games handle the interaction between NG+ and DLC differently. Here’s a brief overview:
- The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt: In this game, the NG+ mode affects the DLCs Hearts of Stone and Blood and Wine. The difficulty of these expansions scales with the NG+ settings, ensuring that the experience remains challenging. Like Elden Ring, the enemies are stronger, and the rewards are more substantial, offering a fresh experience even if you’ve played through the DLC before.
- Dark Souls Series: In the Dark Souls games, NG+ increases the difficulty across the board, including any DLC content. Enemies hit harder, bosses are more unforgiving, and even familiar areas can present new challenges. This makes revisiting the DLC in NG+ a different experience from your first playthrough.
- Horizon Zero Dawn: In Horizon Zero Dawn, the Frozen Wilds DLC is affected by NG+, with enemies becoming more challenging. However, unlike some other titles, this game allows players to adjust the difficulty settings even within NG+, giving you more control over how you want to experience the DLC.
What to Consider Before Starting NG+ with DLC
Before diving into NG+ with DLC, there are a few factors you should consider:
- Difficulty Spike: Be prepared for a significant increase in difficulty. If the base game’s DLC was challenging, NG+ could make it even more so. Ensure your character is well-prepared with upgraded gear and skills.
- Rewards: The rewards in NG+ are often greater, with better loot and unique items that can enhance your gameplay. If you’re looking to maximize your character’s potential, playing the DLC in NG+ might be worth the challenge.
- Time Commitment: NG+ with DLC can be time-consuming, especially with the increased difficulty. Make sure you’re ready for the extra time required to tackle tougher enemies and more complex challenges.
- Replay Value: For many players, NG+ offers a way to extend the life of a game. The changes in difficulty, new challenges, and enhanced rewards can make replaying the DLC feel like a fresh experience.
Conclusion: Maximizing Your Gaming Experience with NG+ and DLC
The interaction between New Game Plus and DLC can significantly impact your gaming experience, offering new challenges and rewards. Whether you’re playing Elden Ring, The Witcher 3, or another title, understanding how NG+ affects DLC can help you plan your playthrough for maximum enjoyment.
