How to Buy DLC in Fire Emblem Awakening: A Comprehensive Guide

Purchasing and playing Downloadable Content (DLC) for Fire Emblem Awakening on the Nintendo 3DS is a straightforward process, although it requires navigating the now-retired eShop. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to access and buy DLC for this beloved tactical RPG:

1. Launch the Game: Start Fire Emblem Awakening from your Nintendo 3DS’s HOME Menu.
2. Access the Nintendo eShop: On the game’s title menu, select Nintendo eShop.
3. Confirm Access: You will likely be prompted to confirm you want to access the eShop. Select Yes.
4. Find the DLC: Once in the eShop, search for “Fire Emblem Awakening” or browse through the games list to find it.
5. View DLC Options: Locate the Add-On Content or Downloadable Content section. You should see available DLC maps and packs listed here.
6. Select Your Desired DLC: Choose the DLC you want to purchase.
7. Review and Purchase: Read the description of the DLC, and then select Next or Proceed to Purchase. Follow the onscreen instructions to complete the transaction. You’ll need sufficient funds in your eShop account, which can be added using a credit card or a Nintendo eShop card.
8. Download the Content: After the purchase is complete, the DLC will automatically download to your 3DS.
9. Access the DLC In-Game: To play the newly downloaded content, you need to progress to Chapter 5 in the main storyline. After completing the initial phases of this chapter, the Outrealm Gate will open, located to the south of the world map. Here, you can access your purchased DLC via the “Purchase Maps” and then “Play A Map” options.

Unlocking the Outrealm Gate

The Outrealm Gate is your portal to all things DLC. It’s crucial to understand that it only appears after you’ve reached Chapter 5 in the main story. The gate won’t simply pop up from the start; you have to progress through the initial part of the game. Once opened, you can use this gateway to purchase and play any of the available DLC maps.

Navigating the DLC Menus

Once you reach the Outrealm Gate, selecting it presents you with a few options:

• Purchase Maps: This is where you access the eShop to find and buy new DLC maps.
• Play a Map: After downloading maps, this option allows you to select and play them.

Remember that DLC maps are not part of the main story. They serve as optional challenges and opportunities to level up your units and acquire unique items.

Why is the DLC Worth It?

Fire Emblem Awakening was the first 3DS title in the series to feature paid DLC, which proved popular among fans. While there is no current method to buy DLC for this title (see below), here are some reasons that made them worthwhile:

• The Future Past DLC: This was widely regarded as the best DLC pack, offering a substantial story that expands on the main narrative. Many fans felt it was almost a sequel in its own right.
• New Characters and Battles: Many DLC packs feature battles against characters from previous Fire Emblem titles, offering a unique challenge and a nostalgic throwback for long-time fans.
• Grinding and Resources: The DLC maps can be an excellent place for grinding experience for your units, getting stronger, and collecting large amounts of gold, which is useful for purchasing powerful weapons and equipment.

Fire Emblem Awakening DLC FAQs

Here are 15 frequently asked questions about the DLC for Fire Emblem Awakening, which should provide all of the information you need:

1. Does Fire Emblem Awakening have paid DLC?

Yes, Fire Emblem Awakening was the first game in the series on the 3DS to feature paid downloadable content (DLC).

2. When should I play the DLC in Fire Emblem Awakening?

There’s no “right” time, but it’s advisable to play the DLC when your units are at a decent level to handle the challenge. Many players also use the DLC maps for grinding experience and gathering gold.

3. What is the Outrealm Gate and how do I unlock it?

The Outrealm Gate is a location on the world map that allows you to access your downloaded DLC maps. It opens up after you’ve progressed to Chapter 5 of the main storyline.

4. Can I still buy DLC for Fire Emblem Awakening?

No, the ability to purchase new DLC for Fire Emblem Awakening is not currently possible as the Nintendo 3DS eShop was closed on March 27, 2023. The only DLC you can currently use are ones that were purchased previously.

5. How do I access the DLC maps after purchasing them?

After purchasing and downloading a DLC map, you can access it through the Outrealm Gate by selecting “Play a Map.”

6. Is the DLC for Fire Emblem Awakening worth the purchase?

Many players felt that the DLC for Fire Emblem Awakening was worth the cost, particularly The Future Past pack, which adds significant story content. The DLC packs are also a good source of challenge, experience, and unique items.

7. What are the common types of DLC available?

The DLC included new maps, battles against characters from other Fire Emblem titles, items, and additional story content, such as the “Future Past” packs.

8. How much storage space does Fire Emblem Awakening DLC take up?

Fire Emblem Awakening takes up 8579 blocks, but this also includes the main game, not exclusively the DLC. Individual DLC packs vary in size.

9. Are the DLC maps part of the main story?

No, the DLC maps are separate from the main story. They are primarily for extra challenges and grinding purposes.

10. Do the DLC packs offer new playable characters?

While some of the DLC features characters from past Fire Emblem titles, they’re typically encountered as opponents, not as recruitable units (with some exceptions.)

11. Can you still redownload DLC after the eShop closure?

Yes, if you purchased DLC for Fire Emblem Awakening before the closure of the eShop on March 27, 2023, you can redownload it from the eShop using your purchased titles.

12. Can I use a Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack to get Fire Emblem Awakening DLC?

No. The Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack does not provide access to DLC on the 3DS, and Fire Emblem Awakening is not available on the Switch.

13. Is there a “best” DLC pack to buy?

Many consider “The Future Past” to be the standout DLC for Fire Emblem Awakening, offering a substantial continuation of the story.

14. Does the DLC affect the main story or ending?

Generally, the DLC does not impact the main story’s outcome or ending. They offer extra side content that enhances the game without altering the core narrative.

15. Can I play DLC maps multiple times?

Yes, you can play DLC maps multiple times, making them great for grinding experience and earning gold.

Conclusion

While the window to purchase new DLC for Fire Emblem Awakening has closed due to the eShop closure, players who previously bought the content can still enjoy it. Understanding the requirements, especially the need to progress to Chapter 5 and unlock the Outrealm Gate, allows players to access and enjoy the additional content, battles, and resources that the DLC provides. This DLC was, and still is, a significant part of the Fire Emblem Awakening experience, enriching the game for many fans.