From Software's Approach to DLC Expansions: A Study of Their Underpromising, Overdelivering Strategy

From Software, a renowned Japanese video game developer, has built a reputation for delivering exceptional gaming experiences. One aspect of their approach that sets them apart is their deliberate and calculated strategy when it comes to downloadable content (DLC) expansions for their games. In this article, we will explore the concept of "underpromising, overdelivering" and how From Software applies this philosophy in their DLC releases.

Understanding the Concept of Underpromising, Overdelivering

The term "underpromising, overdelivering" refers to a business strategy where an organization sets low expectations for a project or product, only to exceed those expectations with its quality and performance. This approach can be beneficial in several ways:

• It reduces the risk of disappointment: By not making exaggerated claims, an organization avoids creating unrealistic expectations that may lead to dissatisfaction.
• It builds trust: When an organization underpromises and overdelivers, it establishes credibility and fosters a sense of trust among customers and stakeholders.
• It encourages surprise and delight: Overdelivering can lead to unexpected positive reactions from customers, who are often more impressed by what exceeds their expectations than by what they initially expected.

From Software's Approach to DLC Expansions

From Software has adopted the underpromising, overdelivering approach in their DLC releases for several of their notable games. Here are some examples:

Dark Souls III: Ashes of Ariandel and The Ringed City

When Dark Souls III was released, From Software announced two DLC expansions: Ashes of Ariandel and The Ringed City. Initially, expectations were high, but the company deliberately kept the details of these expansions under wraps.

In reality, both DLCs turned out to be massive, intricate worlds that expanded the game's lore and gameplay mechanics. Ashes of Ariandel introduced a new region with its own unique enemies, bosses, and mechanics, while The Ringed City brought a fresh narrative that explored the game's world in greater depth.

By underpromising and overdelivering, From Software created anticipation without setting unrealistic expectations. Fans were left excited and surprised by the sheer scale and complexity of these expansions, which ultimately enhanced their overall Dark Souls III experience.

Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice

For Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, From Software took a similar approach to DLCs. The company initially released a small teaser trailer that hinted at the existence of additional content but did not reveal any details about the type or scope of these expansions.

The result was immense speculation and curiosity among fans, who eagerly waited for more information about the game's post-launch DLCs. When From Software finally revealed the identity of their DLCs – including The Isle of the Goddess, Mastering Wolf, and Dragonrot – it turned out to be even larger and more intricate than expected.

The underpromising approach in Sekiro allowed From Software to create a sense of mystery that ultimately made the DLCs feel all the more satisfying and impressive when they were finally released.

Benefits of Underpromising, Overdelivering

From Software's underpromising, overdelivering strategy has several benefits:

• Reduced risk of disappointment: By not making exaggerated claims, From Software avoids creating unrealistic expectations that may lead to dissatisfaction.
• Increased anticipation and excitement: The underpromising approach creates a sense of mystery and curiosity among fans, which can lead to increased enthusiasm and engagement with the game.
• Enhanced overall experience: When DLCs exceed fan expectations, it enhances the overall gaming experience and fosters a stronger connection between players and From Software.

Conclusion

From Software's underpromising, overdelivering approach to DLC expansions reflects their commitment to creating exceptional gaming experiences. By deliberately setting low expectations and then exceeding them with quality and performance, From Software builds trust with its fans, reduces the risk of disappointment, and encourages surprise and delight.

As we look forward to future DLC releases from From Software, it will be interesting to see how they continue to apply this philosophy in their games.