While Steam is one of the biggest online game stores, there will be times when you feel you have consumed all the available content in the game, and there’s nothing more in it. That’s where DLC comes in, where the game developers let you experience more out of your game with additional content. But how do you Install DLC on Steam? Find out in this guide.
Besides helping you with the steps to install DLC on Steam after purchase, we will be exploring what DLC is and whether you should spend your money and time on it, along with answering related queries in this guide.
What Is DLC on Steam
DLC is an abbreviation for Downloadable Content, which provides additional game content that players can download to enhance or expand their gaming experience. DLC can come in various forms, including new levels, characters, missions, skins, weapons, and more.
DLCs are mostly sold at a fraction of the original game price, but there are instances where developers give the DLCs for free. While it’s not necessary to download DLCs, doing so will unlock features such as:
- Extended Gameplay: DLC provides additional hours of gameplay, keeping the gaming experience fresh.
- Community and Updates: Improvements to the existing game mechanics, like adding features requested by the community.
- Support for Developers: Purchasing DLC is a way to support your favorite game developers and their ongoing efforts to improve and expand the game.
How to Install DLC on Steam
The first step to downloading DLC on Steam is to check whether your game has any DLCs. For that:
Step 1: Open the Steam app and ensure you log into your account.
Step 2: Choose the game from the Library for which you want to install DLC.
Step 3: Now, click DLC from here.
Step 4: Choose the DLC you want to download.
Step 5: Click Add to Cart and proceed forward with the purchase. It is the same as purchasing a game.
Step 5: Click Install content on the receipt page.
How to Manage DLC on Steam (Install/Uninstall DLC)
After installing the DLCs, you might be required to enable or disable them according to your needs. This might be required for those who have a low-spec machine. To manage your DLCs:
Step 1: Open Steam and choose Library.
Step 2: Right-click the game for which you want to manage the DLCs and choose Properties.
Step 3: From this window, choose DLC. Here, you can enable and disable them. Once done, close the window and start playing.
Disabling a DLC in between might crash the game or lead you to lose progress. Hence, it’s best to enable or disable DLC when the game is not running.
Fix DLC Purchased But Not Downloading or Showing
So, you have purchased the DLC but still can’t find it in your library, or even worse, it’s not showing in your purchases. In that case, try the below fixes:
1. Check Your Internet Connection
It’s usually an internet connection that can cause issues like these. Hence, check if you have a stable internet connection, and if not, upgrade to a better plan or provider. Also, be sure to turn off and then turn on your modem once every week.
2. Verify Game Compatibility
Ensure the purchased DLC is compatible with the version of the game you have installed. Most DLCs require you to update your game to the latest version for them to work.
3. Restart Steam
Try to force close and restart your Steam client. This simple step can sometimes resolve download-related issues.
4. Check Storage Space
Ensure you have sufficient storage space on your system to install the DLC. If your storage is running low, it might prevent the download.
5. Check DLC Activation
Some games require you to activate DLC within the game itself. Hence, launch the game and navigate to the DLC section in the game menu to ensure the content is activated.
6. Graphics Drivers
Ensure your graphics drivers are up to date. Outdated drivers can sometimes cause issues with DLC downloads.
7. Contact Steam Support
Lastly, contact Steam support and seek assistance. For that:
Step 1: Open the Steam support page using the link below. Sign in to your account if you haven’t.
Step 2: Here, choose Games, Software, etc.
Step 3: Choose the DLC from the list.
Step 4: Here, click ‘DLC or bonus content is missing.’
Step 5: Next, choose between In-game items or Soundtrack, art book, etc. Here, we chose between In-game items.
Step 6: Since the item we have chosen is from the game developer, we were asked to click Contact Game Support. This might change if the DLC is from Steam. Here, you will get information on contacting the game devs.
FAQs on Installing DLC From Steam
Yes. You can request a refund within fourteen days of purchasing the DLC. You also must have less than two hours of main game time since the DLC was purchased. Hence, if you have not consumed the DLC content entirely, you can request a refund.
No. While you can always purchase DLC on Steam, you must purchase and download the game to play it.
While you can share the DLC page from Steam, you can’t share the downloaded content.
Enjoy More With DLC
Now that you know everything about Steam and how to install DLC on Steam, you can access more gameplay and have a great time. If you still have any queries or suggestions, let us know in the comments below.
Thanks for your feedback!
