DLC is where a game you already own gets bigger. Sometimes that means a full story expansion with new territory to explore, sometimes it is a character skin or a vehicle, and sometimes it is the upgrade pack that turns a standard edition into the deluxe one after the fact.

Whatever the size, it works the same way: a code redeemed against the account that owns the base game, unlocking the content the next time you play. There is nothing to install separately.

What is a DLC code?

It is an activation code for add-on content rather than for a whole game. Redeeming it attaches the content to your account permanently, in the same way a game key attaches the game itself.

The one requirement that catches people out is ownership. DLC needs the base game on the same account to be any use, and buying the add-on first does not grant the game.

Which platform is the DLC for?

Add-on content is locked to the platform it was bought for, so it has to match where the base game lives.

• PSN DLCs for content redeemed on a PlayStation Network account.
• Xbox Live DLCs for content redeemed on a Microsoft account.
• Rockstar DLCs for content applied through the Rockstar Games Launcher.

What kinds of DLC are there?

• Story expansions. New campaigns, regions or chapters, often substantial enough to be games in their own right.
• Season passes. A bundle covering everything planned for a game, usually cheaper than buying each piece separately.
• Cosmetic packs. Skins, outfits, weapon finishes and vehicles that change how things look rather than how they play.
• Edition upgrades. Codes that move an existing copy up to a deluxe or premium tier without rebuying the base game.
• Starter and bonus packs. Bundles of in-game items and currency aimed at players joining a live game late.

How to redeem DLC

Sign in to the account that owns the base game, open the platform’s redeem option, enter the code and confirm. The content attaches to the account immediately, though it usually only appears once the game is next launched.

Redeem on the account that owns the game, not on a family member’s profile. Add-on content cannot be moved between accounts after activation.

Check region and base game first

Two things to confirm before buying: that the DLC matches your platform and region, and that the base game it belongs to is on the same account. The region is listed in every product title on this page. Add-ons for a game you do not own will redeem successfully and then sit there unusable, which is not something that can be reversed.