Capcom Removes Controversial Microtransactions from Dragon’s Dogma 2 Before DLC Release

Capcom’s fantasy RPG, Dragon’s Dogma 2, made waves upon its 2024 release, earning praise from critics but facing backlash from players over its microtransactions, which many felt undermined the game’s core experience. Fast forward more than two years, and Capcom has announced it will be removing those contentious paid items from digital stores.

This shift in approach coincides with the announcement of Dragon’s Dogma 2: Dark Arisen, a highly anticipated expansion. In a message shared on the official Dragon’s Dogma X account, Capcom stated, “To prepare for the release of Dragon’s Dogma 2: Dark Arisen, we’ll be discontinuing the Deluxe Edition of Dragon’s Dogma 2, as well as certain DLC items.” These items will be taken down on June 24 at 5 p.m. PDT.

The DLC being removed includes single-use items that unlock features like new fast-travel points, character customization options, and combat revives. Additionally, Capcom had been offering bundles of Rift Crystals, the in-game currency used to summon powerful pawns and purchase items from guilds.

Here’s the rundown of Dragon’s Dogma 2 DLC set to be removed next week:

Capcom will continue to offer the Explorer’s Camping Kit and a collection of custom sounds that feature original music from Dragon’s Dogma for $2.99 each. The base game will also see a permanent price drop.

The uproar over Dragon’s Dogma 2’s microtransactions stemmed from their design rather than the mere fact that they existed. Capcom has a history of selling in-game conveniences in titles like the Resident Evil remakes and Monster Hunter Rise. However, the paid content in Dragon’s Dogma 2 felt at odds with the game’s deliberately challenging nature. Some items, like Wakestones—which allow players to revive their character mid-combat—were rare and valuable, leading players to save them for tough battles. Capcom had priced Wakestones at $0.99 each.

With the upcoming expansion, Capcom appears more inclined to offer these conveniences for free. A recent update has already made fast travel easier by introducing the reusable Eternal Ferrystone, along with other quality-of-life improvements.

How these changes will impact the essence of Dragon’s Dogma 2 is now in the hands of the players. The Dark Arisen expansion is set to launch on October 9 for Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, Windows PC, and Xbox Series X.

Now, you can teleport across the map at your leisure!