Dragon’s Dogma II: Dark Arisen launches October 9 with Norgan, new dungeons, Relic Expedition Cycle, and a major free update arriving in August.
CAPCOM used its June 25, 2026 CAPCOM Spotlight broadcast to unveil extensive new details for Dragon’s Dogma II: Dark Arisen, the game’s first major expansion. The expansion launches on October 9, 2026 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC via Steam, with a large free update arriving at the end of August 2026. Director Kento Kinoshita also presented a deeper look at Norgan, the new northern region that serves as the centerpiece of the expansion.
Table of Contents
- What Is Dragon’s Dogma II: Dark Arisen
- When Is the Expansion Releasing
- What Is Included in the Free August Update
- What New Content Does the Expansion Add
- What Is the Relic Expedition Cycle
- How Much Does the Expansion Cost
- What Are the Pre-order Bonuses
What Is Dragon’s Dogma II: Dark Arisen
Dragon’s Dogma II: Dark Arisen is a major expansion that builds on the world of Dragon’s Dogma II with new regions, progression systems, customization options, and high-level challenges. The expansion focuses on the frozen frontier of Norgan, a land tied to the legend of the Fallen Dragon and the mysterious warrior Eir.
When Is the Expansion Releasing
The expansion launches on:
- October 9, 2026
- Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and S, Nintendo Switch 2, PC via Steam
CAPCOM confirmed that the expansion will be available both as standalone content and as DLC for existing owners.
What Is Included in the Free August Update
Arriving at the end of August 2026, the free update introduces:
- Performance improvements across all platforms
- New save slots
- Adjustments to the Dragonsplague system
- Increased weapon skill slots, from four to six
These updates enhance quality of life and prepare players for the expansion’s more demanding content.
What New Content Does the Expansion Add
Director Kento Kinoshita showcased several major additions:
- Twelve challenge dungeons scattered across Norgan
- New hairstyles and tattoo options for both the Arisen and main Pawn
- Expanded story content focused on the Fallen Dragon and Eir
- New enemies and environmental hazards unique to the northern region
Norgan’s frozen landscape introduces new traversal challenges and atmospheric storytelling.
What Is the Relic Expedition Cycle
The Relic Expedition Cycle is the expansion’s core progression system. While exploring Norgan, players will discover relics that can be evaluated to unlock:
- New weapons
- New abilities
- New combat options
These upgrades allow players to push deeper into Norgan’s harsh terrain and uncover the truth behind the Fallen Dragon.
How Much Does the Expansion Cost
CAPCOM confirmed two purchasing options:
- DLC version: 29.99 euros
- Standalone edition: 49.99 euros
The standalone edition includes the base game and the expansion.
What Are the Pre-order Bonuses
Players who pre-order receive:
- Norgan Fashion Set – Northern Attire, a cosmetic outfit
- Immediate access to the base game when pre-ordering the expansion
The fashion set will appear in the player’s in-game storage after launch.