The question of whether Resident Evil 2’s DLC is free is a bit nuanced. While some cosmetic DLC and a significant story add-on (The Ghost Survivors) were released as free updates, the majority of the additional content, particularly costumes and some other extras, required a purchase. So, the short answer is: some DLC is free, some isn’t. Let’s explore the available DLC and their cost in detail.
Resident Evil 2 Remake: A DLC Breakdown
The Resident Evil 2 Remake was a landmark achievement in the survival horror genre, bringing back the terror and tension of the original with stunning visuals and modern gameplay mechanics. Alongside the main game, Capcom released a variety of downloadable content, aiming to enhance the player experience. To fully understand what’s free and what you need to pay for, let’s break down the offerings.
Free DLC
The Ghost Survivors: This is the most substantial free DLC for Resident Evil 2. It introduces three new “what if” scenarios, allowing you to play as Robert Kendo (the gun shop owner), Katherine Warren (the mayor’s daughter), and an unnamed Umbrella soldier. Each scenario offers a unique challenge with new enemies and storylines, adding significant replay value and extending the game’s lore.
Some Cosmetic Items: Occasionally, Capcom releases free cosmetic items as part of updates or promotions. These are usually minor additions but can add a fresh look to your favorite characters.
Paid DLC
Costume Packs: These packs contain a variety of outfits for Leon S. Kennedy and Claire Redfield, offering different looks for your playthroughs. Some notable examples include the “Arklay Sheriff” costume for Leon and the “Military” costume for Claire, as well as “Noir” costumes for both characters, which give the game a distinct black-and-white aesthetic.
Original Soundtrack Swap: One popular piece of paid DLC allows you to replace the game’s modern soundtrack with the classic music from the original Resident Evil 2. This is a great option for fans of the original game looking for a nostalgic experience.
Are the Resident Evil 2 DLCs Worth It?
Whether the paid DLC for Resident Evil 2 is worth the investment depends entirely on your personal preferences. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
Costume Packs: If you enjoy customizing your characters and adding a bit of visual flair to your game, then the costume packs might be worth it. However, they don’t impact the gameplay in any way, so if you’re primarily focused on story and mechanics, you might want to skip them.
Original Soundtrack Swap: For longtime fans of the original Resident Evil 2, the soundtrack swap can be a fantastic addition. The classic music evokes a strong sense of nostalgia and can enhance the overall atmosphere of the game. As one source stated, “The Original OST is worth the $3 because it’s very well implemented into this game.”
Resident Evil 4 DLC and Cross-Game Content
It’s important to note that the DLC landscape varies across the Resident Evil franchise. For example, Resident Evil 4 recently received a remake, and with it came the “Separate Ways” DLC, which is a paid expansion. This highlights that DLC strategies differ from game to game, so always check what’s included before making a purchase. Additionally, with Ada Wong’s inclusion in The Mercenaries, there is a lot to explore in the game.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about Resident Evil 2 DLC and the broader Resident Evil DLC landscape.
1. How Long Does the Free DLC, The Ghost Survivors, Take to Complete?
The Ghost Survivors DLC for Resident Evil 2 offers a good amount of additional gameplay. Each of the three scenarios takes around 2 hours to beat individually, so you’re looking at approximately 6 hours of content to complete all the storylines. However, to fully finish everything, including unlocking all challenges and achievements, it could take around 7 hours or more.
2. What is the Best Resident Evil DLC Overall?
The “best” Resident Evil DLC is subjective and depends on your preferences. However, some consistently rank high among fans:
- Resident Evil 5 – Lost In Nightmares: A fan favorite due to its return to classic survival horror elements.
- Resident Evil 7 – End Of Zoe: Provides a compelling epilogue to the main story.
- Resident Evil 4 – Separate Ways: Expands on Ada Wong’s role and offers a different perspective on the main events.
- Resident Evil 8: Village – Shadows Of Rose: A unique story that focuses on Ethan Winter’s daughter and her connection to the megamycete.
3. Is the Resident Evil 3 Remake DLC Better Than Resident Evil 2 Remake DLC?
Technically, based on scores alone, Resident Evil 2 is rated higher than Resident Evil 3. While both remakes are excellent, many fans and critics argue that Resident Evil 2 offers a more substantial and well-rounded experience, with deeper exploration and more intricate level design.
4. Will There Be a Resident Evil 8 DLC?
Yes, Resident Evil Village has a DLC expansion called Shadows of Rose, which continues the story of Ethan Winters’ daughter, Rose. This DLC introduces new gameplay mechanics and explores the supernatural elements of the Resident Evil universe.
5. How Much Does the Separate Ways DLC for Resident Evil 4 Cost?
The Separate Ways DLC for the Resident Evil 4 remake costs $9.99. It’s available for PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam.
6. Is the Shadows of Rose DLC Free?
No, the Shadows of Rose DLC is part of the “Winter’s Expansion” for Resident Evil Village and is not free.
7. Are the Resident Evil 7 DLCs Free?
While some pre-order packs offered various sets of items, the “Not A Hero” DLC for Resident Evil 7, which continues directly from the ending of the main story, is free.
8. Who is the Strongest Resident Evil Character?
This is a highly debated topic, but many fans consider Albert Wesker from Resident Evil 5 to be one of the strongest characters due to his superhuman abilities and strategic intelligence. Other contenders include U-III Verdugo, Nemesis T-Type, and E-001 Eveline.
9. Which Resident Evil Game is the Hardest to Beat?
Based on fan consensus, Resident Evil 2 is considered one of the hardest games in the series due to its challenging puzzles, limited resources, and relentless enemies. Other difficult titles include Resident Evil: Code Veronica and Resident Evil Zero.
10. Which Resident Evil Game Has the Most Replay Value?
Resident Evil 4 is widely regarded as one of the most replayable games in the series, thanks to its engaging gameplay, diverse environments, and multiple difficulty levels. Other titles with high replay value include Resident Evil 2 (both the original and the remake), Resident Evil 7, and Resident Evil 6.
11. Is Resident Evil 2 Harder Than Resident Evil 7?
Many players find Resident Evil 2 to be more challenging than Resident Evil 7. This is due to the greater number of enemies and the limited resources available, forcing players to strategically manage their inventory and choose their battles carefully.
12. How Old is Leon S. Kennedy in Resident Evil 2 and Resident Evil 6?
In Resident Evil 2, Leon is 21 years old. By the time of Resident Evil 6, which takes place several years later, he is 36 years old. He serves as a Division of Security Operations agent.
Staying Updated with GB Times
For more in-depth analysis, breaking news, and the latest updates on the gaming world, including the Resident Evil franchise, be sure to check out GB Times at gbtimes.com. You’ll find comprehensive coverage of the gaming industry, including reviews, previews, and exclusive interviews.
In conclusion, while some Resident Evil 2 DLC is free, the majority of the additional content, such as costume packs and the original soundtrack swap, requires a purchase. The value of these purchases depends on individual preferences, but the free DLC, particularly The Ghost Survivors, offers a substantial amount of new gameplay. Stay informed and happy gaming!
