Not so long ago, I heard someone suggest that modern expansions are actually game sequels in disguise, and I really can’t disagree. With how long full-fledged sequels take nowadays, it’s not uncommon for an expansion to be as packed and feel as different as some follow-ups from earlier gaming days. The line is pretty thin today, but what matters is that expansions have grown meatier in recent years, keeping us occupied for longer and offering something substantial.

From massive map expansions and lengthy storylines with brand-new characters to tons of activities and even additional modes with infinite replayability, some of 2026’s best DLC packs are as big as full games. Let’s take a look at some of this year’s best expansions and how long it takes to beat them. As usual, the estimates below are based on average playtimes from HowLongToBeat and can vary notably depending on your playstyle.

The Alters is one of the most interesting sci-fi games of 2025 that went largely overlooked, and its 2026 expansion, Last Variable, doubles down on everything good about the concept. Surprisingly, it’s actually as big as the base game, perfectly illustrating that “DLC as a sequel” thought. A new protagonist (or a version of the previous one, to be precise), vast and completely different regions of the Oasis, and a new underground base to build and maintain – there are enough reasons to return, especially with 17 to 20 hours of average playtime.

Last Variable is a less chaotic and more focused version of The Alters , with Jan Scientist leading other highly qualified versions like Jan Geologist, Biologist, Chemist, and Physicist.

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