10 Video Game Expansions That Eclipse Their Base Games

Video game expansions can breathe new life into familiar worlds, sometimes surpassing the original in scope and creativity. The best ones don’t just add content—they refine mechanics, deepen stories, and deliver experiences that feel like entirely new adventures.

I’ve explored countless expansions, and some stand out for outshining their base games. Below, I dive into ten expansions that elevate their originals, ranked from tenth to first, each offering something bold and unforgettable.

Dishonored: The Brigmore Witches (2013)

‘The Brigmore Witches’ wraps up ‘Dishonored’s story with a darker, more refined experience. Playing as Daud, you wield new supernatural powers like summoning allies, navigating open levels with creative freedom.

The expansion’s tougher enemies and intricate missions feel like the peak of the series’ stealth-action blend. It captures the essence of choice-driven gameplay, making every encounter a thrilling puzzle.

Red Dead Redemption: Undead Nightmare (2010)

‘Undead Nightmare’ transforms ‘Red Dead Redemption’ into a zombie-fueled Western adventure. John Marston battles the undead with new weapons like holy water and a blunderbuss, across a haunting open world.

The expansion’s eerie tone and standalone story feel fresh yet tied to the original’s heart. Its mix of horror and humor makes every showdown a wild, memorable ride.

Half-Life: Opposing Force (1999)

‘Half-Life: Opposing Force’ puts you in the boots of a soldier hunting Gordon Freeman, flipping the perspective of the base game. New weapons and NPC companions add variety to the fast-paced shooting.

The expansion feels ambitious, blending familiar levels with fresh challenges. It’s a bold take that expands the ‘Half-Life’ universe in ways the original only hinted at.

The Elder Scrolls IV: Shivering Isles (2007)

‘Shivering Isles’ takes ‘The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion’ to a vibrant, surreal realm ruled by the Daedric Prince Sheogorath. The new landscape, filled with twisted creatures and colorful quests, feels like a whole new game.

Its story and unique armor sets elevate the experience beyond the base game’s scope. Every corner of the Isles bursts with personality, making exploration irresistible.

Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon (2013)

‘Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon’ swaps the base game’s jungle for a neon-soaked, ‘80s-inspired sci-fi romp. You play as a cyber-soldier battling laser dinosaurs with over-the-top weapons, voiced by Michael Biehn.

The satirical humor and vibrant visuals make it a standalone gem. It’s so distinct it feels like a love letter to retro action films, outshining the original’s grit.

Outer Wilds: Echoes of the Eye (2021)

‘Echoes of the Eye’ adds a haunting, puzzle-driven story to ‘Outer Wilds’, focusing on exploration and mystery. New mechanics, like light-based puzzles, deepen the game’s time-loop formula.

Its eerie atmosphere and clever ties to the base game’s themes make it unforgettable. The expansion feels like a perfect companion, enhancing the original’s cosmic wonder.

Diablo II: Lord of Destruction (2001)

‘Lord of Destruction’ elevates ‘Diablo II’ with two new classes, the Assassin and Druid, and a massive new act. The snowy Barbarian Highlands and Baal’s campaign add depth to the loot-driven adventure.

Improved mechanics, like expanded inventory, make it feel polished. This expansion became the definitive way to experience ‘Diablo II’, setting a high bar for the series.

The Witcher 3: Blood and Wine (2016)

‘Blood and Wine’ sends Geralt to the vibrant land of Toussaint, a fairy-tale region packed with new quests and monsters. Its heartfelt story serves as a fitting farewell to the White Wolf.

The expansion’s colorful world and refined combat outshine the base game’s darker tone. It feels like a full RPG, with enough content to rival standalone titles.

Bloodborne: The Old Hunters (2015)

‘The Old Hunters’ dives deeper into ‘Bloodborne’s gothic horror, adding iconic bosses like Ludwig and Lady Maria. New weapons and nightmarish levels amplify the game’s brutal combat.

The expansion’s lore and challenging encounters feel like the series’ peak. It’s a masterclass in atmosphere, making the base game’s world feel even richer.

Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty (2023)

‘Phantom Liberty’ transforms ‘Cyberpunk 2077’ with Dogtown, a gritty new district, and a spy-thriller story featuring Idris Elba as Solomon Reed. New cyberware and stealth mechanics enhance the RPG experience.

Its emotional narrative and multiple endings surpass the base game’s scope. Paired with the 2.0 update, it feels like the definitive version of Night City’s adventure.

Which expansion blew you away, or is there another that outdid its base game? Share your favorites in the comments.