Info about Deep Rock Galactic - Dark Future Pack:

Official game description:
Wanna look your best, Miners? Well, then maybe the Dark Future Pack is for you! The lads down in R&D went all-out on putting together a hard-edged and tactical set of kit especially for our most discerning employees:  
\- 4 unique suits of Armor, one for each Class.  
\- A Dark Future armor Paintjob for all your other armors  
\- Two matching Helmets to go with your new Armor - a light version to show off your beards, and a heavier, full-face-cover version.  
\- A matching Paintjob for Bosco - team up with your favorite drone in style!  
\- NEW Bonus item: now also with a matching Weapon Paintjob!  
Important note: The contents of this Pack are cosmetic only!

Release date: May 13, 2020

Categories: First-Person Shooter, Cooperative Multiplayer, Horde Shooter, Character Progression, Weapon Customization, Cosmetic Customization, Sci-fi, Looter Shooter

Feature scans:
- MTX: score 25; verdict: Standard, Cosmetic-Only Monetization; summary: Reviews indicate the game uses optional cosmetic DLC packs and free updates, with a free battle pass lacking a premium track. There is no evidence of pay-to-win, paid gacha, loot boxes, paid convenience, or currency obfuscation. The main monetization criticism is mild overpricing of $7.99 cosmetic packs, while other users defend the DLC as optional developer support.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $20.00 - $30.00
  - Reasoning: The reviews do not state the base-game price directly, but they consistently describe the game's monetization as a middling, accessible price point supported by optional cosmetics and free content. The community praises the developers as non-greedy and says the game offers strong value and is worth supporting. This implies a fair base-game range in the mid-tier rather than budget or premium AAA pricing. I ignored DLC-specific prices and complaints. The sentiment points to a fair base-game range of roughly $20 to $30 USD.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: N/A
  - Story completion: N/A
  - Session length: N/A
  - Endgame: 200.0h
  - Reasoning: The concrete '200+ hours' statement is the only numeric playtime reference and places late-game cosmetic hunting at roughly 200 hours, so it supports an endgame value of 200. The 'relatively endgame cosmetics' quote confirms that this DLC's cosmetics are discussed in an endgame context. The 'ton of hours' comment is too vague to quantify game completion, story completion, or session length, and no other review provides numbers for those metrics.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: The game has a steeper learning curve than other PvE shooters, and reports indicate that enjoyment arrives after players invest effort in learning its flow. Broad praise for its co-op experience is common, while one review criticizes late-stage content and season-pass grinding.
  - Stance: Clicks after
  - Anchor: Learning the flow of the game
  - Time to anchor: N/A
  - Friction: Steeper learning curve than other PvE shooters
  - Unlock drivers: Putting a little effort into learning the flow of the game
  - Conditions: Willingness to invest effort in learning the game's flow
- Player Archetypes:
  - Cosmetic Fashion Collector (buy)
    - Motivation: Expressing style through armor, weapon skins, and color schemes.
    - Playstyle: Mix and match cosmetics into themed or class-specific loadouts.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Supportive Patron (buy)
    - Motivation: Supporting the developers and ensuring continued development.
    - Playstyle: Buys DLC as a voluntary contribution after extensive base-game play.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Co-op Shooter Enthusiast (buy)
    - Motivation: Team-based co-op shooter action and shared play with friends.
    - Playstyle: Plays co-op missions with friends, with solo bot-assisted runs as a fallback.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: Left 4 Dead 2; Helldivers 2
  - Value-Conscious DLC Buyer (sale)
    - Motivation: Getting worthwhile value from DLC and prioritizing sales or other packs.
    - Playstyle: Waits for discounts, compares DLC packs, and buys selectively.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: N/A


Below are summaries of things people say about the game per category.
Each point is assigned a weight that represents how often it is mentioned across all reviews.
What players like:
- Strong Armor and Helmet Designs (weight 0.95): Many players praise the armor and helmet designs, finding them cool, neat, and a great addition to the game's cosmetics. Specific armor sets are noted for their high quality and unique look.
- Excellent Weapon Skins and Paintjobs (weight 0.79): The weapon skins and paintjobs are highly praised for their appearance and versatility, especially the black paint that gives a clean, tactical look. They work well with various weapon frameworks.
- Positive Developer Support and Monetization (weight 0.54): Players commend the developers for their ongoing support, free updates, and fair monetization model that restricts paid content to cosmetics only. The free battle pass and frequent content additions are highlights.
- Good Value and Quality DLC (weight 0.52): The DLC is considered one of the better ones, offering good value for money and high-quality cosmetics without technical issues. Many appreciate that it is purely cosmetic and fairly priced.
- Sci-Fi and Cyberpunk Aesthetic (weight 0.5): The robotic, cyberpunk, and tactical sci-fi themes are well-received, with players comparing the look to franchises like Halo, Titanfall, and XCOM. The futuristic armor designs add a unique flavor.
- Great Synergy with Other Cosmetics (weight 0.48): The DLC combines exceptionally well with other cosmetic packs like MegaCorp, Rival Tech, and Neon Band, allowing players to create cohesive and stylish loadouts.
- Highly Replayable and Fun Game (weight 0.48): The game is described as one of the best co-op shooters, with incredible replay value and a rewarding experience even when played solo. It is frequently compared to titles like Left 4 Dead 2 and Helldivers 2.
- Supports Developer and Community (weight 0.4): Players feel good about supporting the developers and appreciate the fantastic community. The DLC is seen as a way to say thank you for the ongoing free content and updates.
- Customization and Color Options (weight 0.39): The ability to apply colors from the DLC to other weapons and armor pieces, as well as mix and match with existing items, greatly enhances player personalization. The class-colored details and neon accents are appreciated.
- Dark and Glowy Visual Effects (weight 0.37): The glowing lights on the armor provide practical benefits like visibility in caves and add to the aesthetic. The dark theme with neon accents is a major selling point.
- Good Design and Appearance (weight 0.35): The overall design of the DLC is praised for being clean, unique, and visually appealing. Many reviewers find the cosmetics to be exceptionally good and fitting for the game's theme.
- Variety of Armor Sets and Helmets (weight 0.32): The DLC offers a surprisingly large amount of variety with different armor suits across classes and includes unique helmet options. Players appreciate the distinct looks and the ability to choose between open and closed helmets.
- Not Forced and Cosmetic Only (weight 0.31): Players appreciate that the DLC is purely cosmetic and not forced upon them, with no pay-to-win elements or artificial inflation. It is optional and fairly monetized.
- Positive Reviews of Specific Items (weight 0.29): Certain items like the pickaxe skin, hats, and specific class armor pieces receive individual praise. These details add to the overall positive reception of the pack.
- Best Black Paintjob Available (weight 0.28): Many players consider the black paintjob to be the best in the game, offering a pure-black finish that is ideal for a militarized or 'faceless corpo goon' look. It is especially praised for pairing with other dark cosmetics.
- MegaCorp Pack High Praise (weight 0.27): The MegaCorp cosmetic pack is frequently mentioned as a perfect companion to this DLC, with players loving the black-and-white coloring and uniform design. It is considered one of the best-looking DLC sets.
- Comparisons to Other Franchises (weight 0.23): The armor reminds players of characters from XCOM, Dead Space, Tron, and Titanfall 2, which adds to its appeal. These comparisons highlight the sci-fi and tactical inspiration.
- Appealing Gothic and Cyborg Themes (weight 0.2): Some players enjoy the gothic cyborg transformation option for non-dwarf characters and the overall dark, mysterious vibe of the armor. The design leans into corporate satire effectively.
- Best DLC in the Game (weight 0.15): Some players consider this DLC to be the best in the game, even above the supporter upgrade. It sets a high standard for future content.
- No Technical Issues (weight 0.08): The DLC works fine without any technical problems, and the fair price point is appreciated. This reliability contributes to positive user experiences.

Common complaints:
- Missing pickaxe paintjob (weight 0.56): Multiple reviewers note that the DLC pack lacks a matching paintjob for the pickaxe, preventing a fully coordinated set. This gap is cited as a notable omission that diminishes the pack's completeness.
- Armor looks generic and bland (weight 0.46): Armor sets are criticized for lacking detail, class-specific variation, and imagination. Colors and designs are seen as unremarkable.
- Unappealing helmet designs (weight 0.39): Helmets are described as ugly, goofy, or resembling a wearable toilet. Some also mention an inferior helmet variant that cuts off the beard.
- Scout chest armor mismatches picture (weight 0.22): The Scout chest armor does not match the promotional image and is missing two blue light strips. Its front also appears bland to some.
- DLC lacks eye-catching content (weight 0.22): The DLC is considered unimpressive and among the least good available. It fails to stand out compared to other packs.
- Price perceived as steep (weight 0.21): Some players feel the price is too high for the content offered. This sentiment is echoed in multiple reviews.
- No new weapons or gear (weight 0.17): The pack adds only cosmetic items, with no new weapons, gear, or maps. This limits its appeal for players seeking gameplay additions.
- Developer commitment has ended (weight 0.16): The developer stopped meaningful support years ago and focuses on spin-off games. This abandonment leaves the game feeling neglected.
- Mediocre helmets and paintjobs (weight 0.15): Helmets, armor paintjobs, and Bosco paintjobs are viewed as mediocre. They are neither the best nor the worst, leaving little impression.
- Armor looks good only on some (weight 0.14): The armor is considered cool only on the Gunner and Scout classes. Other classes may not benefit as much from the design.
- Poor new mission types (weight 0.09): New mission types are described as terrible, adding little enjoyment. This contributes to negative perceptions of the DLC.
- Season pass is an endless slog (weight 0.09): The season pass is criticized for feeling like a never-ending grind. This makes progression feel unrewarding.
- Cosmetic packs are low quality (weight 0.09): Cosmetic packs are called 'dreck' and constitute most content since development ended. Their poor quality reflects on the overall DLC.
- Class-specific paintjobs clash (weight 0.09): Armor paintjobs for Engineer, Driller, and Scout have class-specific color accents that clash on other suits. This limits mix-and-match options.
- Weapon lights mismatch armor lights (weight 0.09): The weapon lights on the paintjob do not match the armor lights when using the same paintjob. This inconsistency is visually jarring.
- Shoulders on armor too big (weight 0.08): The shoulder pieces of the armor are oversized, detracting from the overall look. This is a specific complaint about proportions.
- Steeper learning curve than other PvE (weight 0.08): The game has a slightly steeper learning curve compared to other PvE shooters. This may deter some new players.
- Cave camo may hinder visibility (weight 0.08): The skin's colors can make it hard for friends to locate you in caves. This affects cooperative gameplay negatively.
- Gunner paintjob entirely black (weight 0.08): The Gunner's armor paintjob is all black, making it look monotonous. This lack of color variation is unappealing.

Gameplay feedback:
- Cosmetic DLC includes skins and armor (weight 0.65): Multiple clusters describe the DLC as a cosmetic pack containing armor sets, skins, helmets, and color options. This is a core content type for the game's paid add-ons.
- Supports both co-op and solo (weight 0.24): The game can be played cooperatively or solo, with a helpful CPU-controlled robot assisting in solo play. This flexibility is a positive feature noted by players.
- Many character customization options (weight 0.24): The game offers extensive customization for characters, including a dwarf aesthetic with many beards and class-specific color palettes. This depth appeals to players who enjoy personalization.
- Mix and match armor and weapons (weight 0.17): Players can freely combine different models and paint jobs on all armors and weapons. This allows for extensive personalization.
- Weapon paintjobs are not frameworks (weight 0.1): Feedback clarifies that the weapon skin is a paintjob rather than a framework. This distinction is important for players expecting certain customization types.
- Dark Future armors accept other paintjobs (weight 0.1): The Dark Future armor set is compatible with other paint jobs, not just its own. This increases customization options.
- Single armor set per class (weight 0.1): Each class has only one armor set and two helmets available. This limits variety compared to other customization options.
- Dark Future and MegaCorp separate DLCs (weight 0.09): These are two distinct DLC packs. Players should not confuse them when purchasing.
- No story elements (weight 0.09): The game lacks a narrative or story mode. This may be a downside for players seeking a campaign.

Performance notes:
- Modest system requirements (weight 0.09): Players note that the game demands relatively modest hardware specifications, making it accessible on a wide range of PCs. This low barrier to entry is frequently mentioned as a positive aspect.
- Small install size (weight 0.09): The game's installation footprint is modest, which players appreciate as it saves disk space. This is often highlighted alongside the game's accessibility.

Recommendations:
- General Recommendation for All (weight 0.47): Many reviewers simply recommend the DLC for everyone, citing its all-rounded nature and broad appeal. It is often described as a safe purchase for fans of the game.
- Supporting Developers Drives Purchases (weight 0.4): Many reviewers recommend buying the DLC primarily to support the developers, especially if they have enjoyed the game. This sentiment appears across several clusters, emphasizing goodwill toward the studio's continued work on DRG.
- Wait for Discounts (weight 0.4): A common recommendation is to wait for a sale, with suggested discounts ranging from 40% to 50% or more. Some reviewers consider the DLC worth it at any price if you have the money, but sales are a recurring theme.
- Optional Cosmetic DLC (weight 0.34): The DLC is widely regarded as purely cosmetic and optional, with no pressure to buy. Reviewers note it's only worth it if you care about appearance or want to support the developers.
- Armor Quality and Variety (weight 0.22): The armor pieces included in the DLC are praised for their quality and are seen as a good addition due to the limited armor options in the base game. However, some feel there are other packs with better armor.
- Best Among DRG DLCs (weight 0.17): Several reviewers consider this DLC the best among the available packs for Deep Rock Galactic. It stands out for its quality and is often recommended over others.
- Not Recommended for Short-Term Players (weight 0.16): Some reviewers advise against buying if you don't plan to play long-term. The DLC is best for those who are committed to the game and will get many hours of enjoyment.
- Weapon Skin Recommendations (weight 0.16): For players interested in weapon skins, the MegaCorp DLC is often recommended over this one. This DLC is more focused on armor or other cosmetics.
- Supporter Pack Suggestion (weight 0.09): A few reviewers suggest also getting the supporter pack if you are feeling generous. It is seen as an additional way to support the developers.
- RGB Peripheral Synergy (weight 0.08): The DLC's colors are said to match well with RGB peripherals like Razer mice and keyboards. This niche appeal is noted by at least one reviewer.

Other player notes:
- Purchased to support developers (weight 0.82): Many buyers explicitly state they bought the DLC to support the developers, often citing the free updates and the game's underpriced value.
- Purely cosmetic DLC (weight 0.58): The DLC contains only cosmetic items, with no pay-to-win elements or gameplay advantages, and all content is earnable through gameplay.
- Combines well with MegaCorp (weight 0.46): The Dark Future Pack's armor and paint set combine well with the MegaCorp Pack to customize weapon appearance, and they are often purchased together.
- Free updates by developers (weight 0.4): The developers regularly release free content updates and bug fixes, which encourages players to support them via cosmetic DLC purchases.
- Supporter pack positioning (weight 0.4): The pack is positioned as a supporter pack in scope and content, similar to the Supporter Upgrade, and is seen as a way to fund ongoing development.
- Miscellaneous requests and comparisons (weight 0.38): Includes requests for a Warhammer 40K collaboration, comparisons to Supporter and Megacorp DLCs, and mention of gold skins in Supporter and green skin in Megacorp.
- Glowy bits on armor (weight 0.25): The DLC armor and weapon frameworks include glowy bits and lights on the suit, which pair well with the Rival Tech pack.
- Black weapon paintjob exclusive (weight 0.23): The DLC is the only way to obtain an all-black paintjob for weapons, which many players find desirable for realistic weapon colors.
- Favorable comparisons to other DLC (weight 0.17): Compared favorably to other DLCs that look ragged, and the developers are praised for not selling such content as DLC.
- First cosmetic purchase (weight 0.16): For some players, this DLC is their first cosmetic purchase, indicating it appeals even to those who typically don't buy cosmetics.
- Dark Future armor sets (weight 0.15): Includes 4 Cyberpunk Style SWAT armor sets, and the armor is considered superior to base game and other DLC options.
- Black paintjob not fully black (weight 0.15): The black paintjob is not an extremely dark black; it looks reflective and the texture is noticeable, with barrels appearing light grey on default frameworks.
- Weapon paintjobs match other skins (weight 0.14): The black weapon paint jobs go well with milspec skins and degraded silvery paint jobs from Robot Rebellion, offering realistic weapon colors.
- No Bosco framework or pickaxe (weight 0.14): The DLC does not include a Bosco Framework, Weapon Frameworks, or Pickaxe Paintjob; the developers stated they don't plan to add a pickaxe paintjob soon.
- Fair price and technical stability (weight 0.14): The DLC works fine with no technical issues and is considered a fair price, though some find the game pricey overall.
- Armor paintjob details (weight 0.12): The armor paintjob is a full black finish with class-colored details, and the dark armor paintjob is compared to black crag but lacking red details.
- Limited armor options in game (weight 0.08): There are not that many armors in the game compared to other cosmetics, and the DLC adds more options.
- Season 5 Mk6 armors (weight 0.07): A future content update, Season 5, will introduce Mk6 armors, indicating ongoing support.

Emotions:
- Satisfaction (weight 0.18): Players appreciate the cohesive, stylish robotic aesthetic that fits the game's atmosphere and combines well with other cosmetics. They find good value in the armor sets and paint jobs, and satisfied to support the developers through cosmetic-only monetization.
- Disappointment (weight 0.16): Disappointment stems from the lack of a pickaxe paint job and the developers' stated intention not to add one, preventing a fully matching set. Additionally, some find the armor oversized, flat, or not matching promotional images, and consider the pack overpriced with insufficient content.
- Admiration (weight 0.09): Admiration is driven by the peak weapon styling of the dark theme skins, which combine well with the Megacorporation set. Players praise the stylish futuristic suits, the majestic look of the skins, and the developers' commitment to free updates without paywalls.
- Appreciation (weight 0.08): Appreciation centers on the Dark Future pack being one of the best-looking packs, with great paint jobs that evoke a corporate death squad. Players also value the opportunity to support the developers and the free cosmetic additions.
- Liking (weight 0.07): Players like the cool skin pack, especially the combination of the Biohazard gas mask and Dark Future suit. The sci-fi armor, bulky shoulders with neon strips, and spec-ops look are highlighted as appealing.
- Love (weight 0.05): Love is expressed for the cosmetic pack's armor, helmet, and color, particularly the dystopian officer helmet and space marine aesthetic. Continued developer support through patches and new content also fosters this affection.
- Frustration (weight 0.03): Frustration arises from mismatched weapon and armor lights on the same paint job, and the absence of a pickaxe paint job that prevents a fully coordinated set. Some also express frustration toward those who dislike the DLC.
- Gratitude (weight 0.03): Gratitude is felt toward the developers for releasing substantial free content that other studios would charge for, not abandoning the game, and continuously improving it through hard work.
- Dissatisfaction (weight 0.02): Dissatisfaction focuses on the helmet looking poor and the absence of the Dark Future pickaxe and MegaCorp Bosco cosmetics, leaving the set incomplete.
- Amusement (weight 0.02): Amusement comes from the skins resembling Advent soldiers from XCOM, leading to jokes about playing as the villains. Another source is the Driller receiving what looks like a neck pillow.
- Delight (weight 0.02): Delight is triggered by the armor appealing to players' cyberpunk aesthetic interests and being among their favorite cosmetic additions.
- Dislike (weight 0.02): Dislike is due to the armor looking cool only on the Gunner and Scout classes, and the helmet being compared to a wearable toilet.
- Indifference (weight 0.02): Indifference stems from finding helmets, armor paint jobs, and Bosco paint jobs mediocre, and seeing the DLC as just costumes when the base game already offers extensive customization.
- Excitement (weight 0.02): Excitement is generated by weapon paint jobs that pair well with MegaCorp skins and the technology-focused futuristic theme of the pack.
- Surprise (weight 0.01): Surprise comes from the robotic aesthetic looking unexpectedly cool on dwarves.
- Regret (weight 0.01): Regret is expressed by players who bought the cosmetic packs primarily to support the developer but were not fully satisfied with the purchase.
- Mild disappointment (weight 0.01): Mild disappointment is caused by helmets looking goofy and a lack of class-specific variation in the cosmetic pack.
- Ambivalence (weight 0.01): Ambivalence arises from finding the pack charming but ultimately forgettable and not special in its design.
- Enthusiasm (weight 0.01): Enthusiasm is driven by the game being one of the best co-op shooters with incredible replay value.
- Joy (weight 0.01): Joy is experienced from the improved appearance of the character when wearing the new skins.}