In our latest DLC roundup, we check out the Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration’s new “The First Console War” addon, new Castlevania content for Vampire Survivors and the Double Dragon DLC for River City Girls 2 – all three excellent new DLC releases for fun games that are worth coming back to.
Atari 50 – The First Console War review (PS5)
The First Console War DLC for Atari 50: The Anniversary Celebration, which is actually the second major DLC release for the game, presents a deep dive into gaming’s early days, recounting the rivalry between Atari’s VCS (the legendary 2600) and Mattel’s Intellivision. This history-focused add-on is filled with engaging interviews from key developers, including industry legends like David Crane and Garry Kitchen, whose insights illuminate how this competition shaped the industry. In the DLC, Digital Eclipse has crafted a nostalgic look back that emphasizes the era’s creative challenges, making it a fascinating side journey for retro enthusiasts.
In addition to the historical narratives, the DLC includes 19 rare games, some of which are prototypes available to the public for the first time. While the gameplay can feel dated, certain titles shine as hidden gems within Atari’s library, adding value for hardcore fans. The emulation quality is solid, and the option to apply filters and adjust display settings is a welcome touch, enhancing accessibility on modern platforms.
However, the DLC lacks licensed Intellivision titles, which might disappoint those hoping for a balanced look at both sides of this rivalry. Instead, the focus remains squarely on Atari’s perspective, showcasing M Network’s contributions as an interesting bridge between the two consoles but ultimately leaving out many classics from the Intellivision catalog (that many Atari fans might not even be familiar with). This perspective choice, while understandable, may feel like a missed opportunity to some – especially because the Atari games on offer aren’t the timeless classics that were in the core Atari 50 experience either.
Still, The First Console War DLC provides a robust historical experience for dedicated Atari fans. It’s a well-executed homage to a groundbreaking era, blending game collection and cultural insight. Those passionate about gaming history will find it a rewarding expansion that complements the main Atari 50 collection, even if it leaves a few gaps in its retelling of the original console war.
Vampire Survivors: Ode to Castlevania review (PS5)
The Ode to Castlevania DLC for Vampire Survivors taps into classic Castlevania lore, with new stages, characters, and an array of monster-slaying weapons that fit seamlessly into the chaotic gameplay fans love about Vampire Survivors. Teaming up with the Belmont clan, players navigate Dracula’s castle, using familiar yet also refreshingly varied weaponry that includes iconic whips and powerful spells. Controls remain intuitive, and each of the new character abilities fits well with the fast-paced action, making the gameplay feel both nostalgic and enhanced.
With over 20 new playable characters, including Castlevania icons like Simon Belmont and Maria Renard, and a slew of unique, upgradeable weapons, the DLC offers a wealth of content that keeps battles feeling intense and unpredictable. The sheer variety in character abilities, including weapon selectors, enhances player freedom and replayability, adding more depth to the already-addictive gameplay. Still, a few weapons feel underpowered compared to others, and you might end up sticking with familiar setups rather than fully exploring the new arsenal – which in a way can be overwhelming.
Visually, the DLC’s new castle map is filled with atmospheric details and enemies that pay homage to the Castlevania series, while the gothic soundtrack amplifies the setting with a combination of remixed classics and new compositions. These tracks elevate the experience, blending nostalgia with fresh energy that captures Castlevania’s signature musical feel. The vast new map adds exciting exploration opportunities, though some may find it daunting due to its size and difficulty spikes with boss encounters.
For fans of both Vampire Survivors and Castlevania, Ode to Castlevania is a highly rewarding crossover that should not be missed. It delivers challenging combat, inventive weapon options, and rich, nostalgia-infused audio and visuals. While a few balancing tweaks to the weapons could improve the experience, the expansion offers impressive content and gameplay enhancements that capture the essence of both franchises. Whether you’re here for the Castlevania references or the chaotic action of Vampire Survivors, this DLC successfully bridges both IPs for an excellent DLC package.
River City Girls 2 – Double Dragon DLC review (PS5)
The Double Dragon DLC for River City Girls 2 introduces Billy and Jimmy Lee into the game, who come with their trademark moves, including the Hurricane Kick and Rising Knee. Their addition feels authentic and seamlessly fits into the story mode with voiceovers that capture the Lee brothers’ iconic personalities, bringing a fun twist for Double Dragon fans. The DLC further stands out with a new vocal track featuring series composer Megan McDuffee, adding an energetic soundtrack layer that enhances the gameplay’s nostalgic appeal.
While the Lee brothers’ distinct moves add variety, some players may find that the integration doesn’t entirely resolve the game’s existing balance issues, with certain moves feeling slightly overpowered or redundant depending on your fighting style. Despite this, the controls remain fluid and responsive, making Billy and Jimmy feel natural in the River City universe. The addition of Boro as a new dojo master expands on training options, adding an extra incentive to revisit combat strategies.
What’s also interesting about this DLC release is that it should ignite interest in River City Girls 2 with Double Dragon fans who skipped the game initially. The bothers have been seamlessly integrated into the game, making it almost feel like a Double Dragon game for fans who are looking for an experience like that. So for fans of either franchise, this DLC refreshes the gameplay in River City Girls 2 with a touch of classic brawler charm.
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