Bilawal Bashir 
Open-world RPG Dragon’s Dogma 2’s launch has been mired in controversy despite excitement for the game itself, but microtransactions and nickel-and-dime DLC are leaving rank-and-file gamers inexplicably mad at both Capcom and reviewers.
Dragon’s Dogma 2‘s Steam user review rating is “mostly negative.” This is partially due to unoptimized performance and partially thanks to microtransactions. Previously, there was no indication of Dragon’s Dogma 2 microtransactions in media or official trailers. Reviews didn’t seem to discuss the matter, leading to questions from players.
Dragon’s Dogma 2’s release was hotly anticipated but was also uniquely strange due to questions about its performance and persistent questions about its review embargo. The game and accompanying microtransactions are available on PC, Xbox Series X/S, and PlayStation 5.
Dragon’s Dogma 2 microtransaction prices, options
Microtransactions in Dragon’s Dogma 2 mainly offer items obtainable in the game and range from $1 to $5.
The optional purchases include gameplay-changing offerings, most of which can be bought with in-game currency. The list consists of Rift Crystals used to summon other players’ pawns. Art of Metamorphosis tomes are also available, which help players change their in-game appearances. Wakestone revival brings a dead pawn back to life.
The most impactful microtransaction option in Dragon’s Dogma 2 is the Portcrystal, a teleportation crystal in a game with no fast travel. Players are dubbing some of the microtransactions as “pay-to-win” including the Explorer’s Camping Kit, which weighs less than the regular version of the kit obtainable in the game.
Some items can only be purchased once, limiting the money players can spend on them. Wakestones and Rift Crystals are consumables available for purchase in a limited quantity. However, many items, such as the Makeshift Gaol Key, a literal “get out of jail free” key, can be purchased infinitely.
Did Capcom hide DLC from Dragon’s Dogma 2 reviewers?
Capcom did not hide Dragon’s Dogma 2 microtransactions from reviewers.
The optional micro-purchases are mentioned in the review guide, a packet that explains the game and some possible nuances of early builds that were made available before the official release. Capcom, at least, didn’t hide the microtransactions from reviewers.
While many reviews didn’t make note of the pay-to-win DLC of Dragon’s Dogma 2, it’s unclear why it was even notable when Capcom is well-known for including these sorts of microtransactions in its games. The Resident Evil 4 remake comes with easy weapon upgrade microtransactions. Devil May Cry lets players purchase Red Orbs, the in-game currency. Street Fighter 6 is infamous for launching costume colors as purchases. It’s been standard practice with every major Capcom title for so many years that it’s not even notable.
