While 2012’s Dragon’s Dogma was well-received, it faced common criticisms. Fan feedback would be addressed in the following year's expanded version, subtitled Dark Arisen. Dragon’s Dogma 2 would ironically be seen in a similar light to its predecessor’s base version by a majority of players. Now, the game is being expanded and addressing fan feedback with Dragon’s Dogma 2: Dark Arisen.
History could potentially be repeating itself again. More adventures for the Arisen and their pawns is one thing, but focusing on what the community likes might lead to another beloved package. Keep reading below for a breakdown of everything you need to know about Dragon’s Dogma 2: Dark Arisen.
When is the release date for Dragon's Dogma 2: Dark Arisen?
Dragon's Dogma 2: Dark Arisen is expected to release on October 9th, 2026.
What platforms will Dragon's Dogma 2: Dark Arisen be on?
Dragon's Dogma 2: Dark Arisen will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC. This also marks the official launch of Dragon's Dogma 2 on the Nintendo Switch 2.
How much does Dragon's Dogma 2: Dark Arisen cost?
The price to experience this content comes in two forms. For those who own the base game on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, or PC, the Dragon's Dogma 2: Dark Arisen Expansion can be purchased for $29.99.
Those looking to start their first adventure (or on another platform) can purchase Dragon’s Dogma 2: Dark Arisen for $49.99. This includes both the base game and expansion, as well as the Explorer’s Camping Kit - Camping Gear and Custom Sounds DLCs. It’s also worth noting that this is the only option for Nintendo Switch 2 users.
What’s new in Dragon's Dogma 2: Dark Arisen?
The highlight for this expansion is that it takes place in a brand-new region called Norgan. This snowy locale features new enemies and gear to encounter. A relic system is also being added, letting you appraise hidden or left-behind items to discover powerful weapons and armor, some with unique skills.
Story-wise, the main foe will be the Fallen Dragon. This undead monster captures the attention of the Arisen as well as a woman named Eir, who’s pursuing the dragon for her own reasons. It’s unknown if the story of this expansion will be similar to the original Dark Arisen, which also featured undead dragons.
Another notable addition is 12 dungeon challenges. Completing these difficult trials will provide you with rare equipment that was once used by previous Arisens. These have also been referred to as the Pathfinder’s trials, so there may be more light shed on that mysterious character from the base game.
The final promoted aspect for new content is a bevy of new hairstyles and tattoos for your Arisen character and your Pawns. That might not be the most exciting addition for everyone, but having more customization options is always a win in my book.
Who's directing Dragon's Dogma 2: Dark Arisen?
Given that Hideaki Itsuno, the creator and director of the two mainline entries in the series, left Capcom a couple of years ago, there was uncertainty about whether fans would see more. The person who stepped into the director role for the Dragon's Dogma 2: Dark Arisen expansion is none other than Kento Kinoshita.
Many fans have been excited about this since he previously served as the director for the 2013 Dragon's Dogma: Dark Arisen expansion. He was also the Lead Gameplay and then Lead Game Designer for the two mainline entries, as well as the director of the Dragon's Dogma Online MMORPG. Needless to say, he’s one of the most familiar people with the series.
If you're planning which other games to try in October, check out our breakdowns of Star Wars: Galactic Racer and Gears of War: E-Day.
