With new content for Company of Heroes 3, Railway Empire 2 and X4: Foundations, we’re exploring DLC releases that will inject dozens of hours of gameplay time into these games. Here’s a closer look.
Company of Heroes 3 – Fire & Steel DLC review (PC)
The Fire & Steel DLC for Company of Heroes 3 expands multiplayer and co-op battles with four new battlegroups, each introducing distinct tactical approaches. With a mix of returning favorites like the Churchill Crocodile and King Tiger and new abilities such as V1 Rocket Strikes and Black Dragon howitzer barrages, the expansion adds strategic depth. However, while it successfully diversifies gameplay, its relatively high price point is sure to spark some debate among players.
Among the standout additions, the Canadian Shock Battlegroup brings an aggressive playstyle, enhanced by immersive voice lines and unique battlefield interactions. These fresh units and abilities create more dynamic encounters, which longtime fans will appreciate. However, some might argue that some of the elements in this DLC should have been included in the free (balancing) update that was also released, rather than locked behind a DLC purchase.
The free update that accompanies the DLC is a major one, significantly improving the base game. The addition of a replay feature allows players to analyze matches in greater detail, and overall gameplay balance has been refined. For those who stepped away from Company of Heroes 3 after completing it upon launch, these updates make now a great time to return.
Ultimately, Fire & Steel enhances Company of Heroes 3 with engaging new battlegroups and exciting strategic options, but its pricing (almost half of what the base game goes for) remains a point of contention. While dedicated fans or those eager to support Relic will find lots of value in the purchase, others may prefer to wait for a sale before investing in the expansion.
Railway Empire 2 – Bella Italia DLC review (PS5)
Bella Italia brings Railway Empire 2 to the scenic landscapes of Italy, letting players build railways across Rome, Sicily, and beyond. The map’s mix of flatlands and mountains makes for interesting track construction and beautiful vistas, but some iconic locations and landscape elements feel underdeveloped. Venice, for example, is oddly placed on land instead, and wooden bridges don’t quite feel “Italian” to anyone who’s been there.
The economic aspect of the game sees slight improvements, with a more complex system that makes trade routes feel more rewarding. The addition of 22 regional goods like pasta and grappa fits the theme well but primarily replaces existing products in a thematic fashion rather than expanding or changing the economy system. Likewise, the eight new locomotives are solid additions, but mostly for train enthusiasts.
One of the strongest aspects of the new DLC is its atmosphere. The soundtrack captures the spirit of Italy nicely, and the voice acting in the new scenarios helps bring the setting to life. However, Bella Italia lacks fresh gameplay mechanics – unlike previous expansions for Railway Empire 2 that introduced new systems like electric locomotives. While still-engaging economic challenges somewhat compensate for this, the DLC ultimately feels less ambitious compared to the previous release.
Despite its shortcomings, Bella Italia remains an enjoyable addition to Railway Empire 2, especially for those eager to expand their rail network through Italy’s picturesque landscapes. The refined economy and immersive atmosphere are highlights, but missed opportunities in city/landmark design and a lack of new mechanics make it feel less essential. Those looking for innovation may be disappointed, but players who simply want a beautifully crafted Italian setting will find it a solid, if imperfect, expansion.
X4 – Hyperion Pack DLC review (PC)
Egosoft’s X4: Foundations – Hyperion Pack brings back the Hyperion as an Expeditionary-class ship, offering a sleek, high-mobility capital vessel alongside a short narrative mission, a new sector, and additional music. While the content is fitting for its $7 price, the DLC taps into nostalgia for long-time fans and provides a powerful, versatile ship that stands out in combat and utility.
The Hyperion itself is a hybrid between a frigate and a capital ship, prioritizing agility over raw firepower. With strong shielding, six gun mounts, and the ability to dock and repair two fighters, it suits independent playstyles well. However, the lack of interior rooms – unlike other L-class ships – feels like a missed opportunity, and we saw a few small glitches such as NPC pathfinding problems that will probably get fixed.
The mission to obtain the Hyperion is straightforward, requiring players to scan jump gates and track the ship before choosing which Paranid faction will manufacture it. While it adds a bit of lore, the quest structure is fairly basic and doesn’t offer much in terms of deep storytelling or gameplay variety. Beyond the ship itself, the new sector is mostly a backdrop for the mission, and the additional music tracks are a small bonus rather than a game-changing feature.
Compared to previous expansions that introduced new factions and multiple ships, the Hyperion Pack feels somewhat light. However, for dedicated fans who value the ship’s legacy and unique design, it’s an enjoyable, if modest, addition to X4: Foundations – and it’s being sold at a pleasant price point.
Press Play Media 