ABOVE DLC Guide: All Available Expansions & Future Plans

Current DLC & Content Packs

As of the latest update, ABOVE offers a modest but meaningful selection of downloadable content. The developers at Above the Desk have focused on expanding the base game with themed packs that add new stories, mechanics, and customization options. Each DLC is designed to integrate seamlessly with your existing save file, so you can jump right into the new content without starting over.

The first major expansion, "Winter's Peak", introduces a brand-new mountain region with three additional climbing routes. This DLC also includes a fresh set of characters, each with their own backstory and requests. You will manage a remote outpost at higher altitude, where weather conditions are more extreme and resources are scarce. The expansion adds roughly 4-6 hours of gameplay depending on your management style.

Free Content Updates

Beyond paid expansions, ABOVE has received several free updates that enrich the core experience. The "Holiday Season" update added seasonal decorations and special events that occur during in-game winter months. Players can unlock limited-time furniture and outfits for their staff. Another free patch, "Trailblazer", introduced a new tool for mapping unexplored terrain, making route planning more strategic.

These free updates demonstrate the developer's commitment to supporting the community. If you are looking for a comprehensive experience, the base game plus the free content already offers dozens of hours of engaging simulation gameplay.

How to Purchase & Install DLC

All ABOVE DLCs are available exclusively on Steam. You can purchase them from the game's store page or through the in-game menu. Once bought, the content downloads automatically the next time you launch the game. There is no need to start a new save; the DLC content becomes accessible based on your progression in the main story.

1. Open Steam Store

   Navigate to the ABOVE store page at https://store.steampowered.com/app/2423760/. Scroll down to the "Downloadable Content" section.

2. Select Your DLC

   Choose the expansion or content pack you wish to purchase. Read the description carefully to ensure compatibility with your current save.

3. Complete Purchase

   Follow the standard Steam checkout process. The DLC will be added to your library instantly.

4. Launch & Verify

   Start ABOVE and check the in-game settings menu. Under "Installed Content," you should see the new DLC listed as active.

If you encounter any issues, verify your game files through Steam or consult the official troubleshooting guide. Most problems are resolved by restarting the client or updating your graphics drivers.

Future DLC Roadmap

The developers have hinted at upcoming expansions in their community posts. A second paid expansion, tentatively titled "Crystal Ridge," is expected to focus on cooperative elements, allowing you to invite friends to help manage the resort. No release date has been confirmed, but early prototypes are being tested internally.

Additionally, a free "Photo Mode" update is in the works, giving players more tools to capture their mountain resort's beauty. This feature will include filters, depth of field controls, and the ability to hide UI elements. It is slated for a late 2026 release.

Is DLC Worth It?

For dedicated fans of ABOVE, the paid expansions offer substantial new content that justifies the cost. The "Winter's Peak" DLC, for example, adds an entire biome with its own ecosystem and weather patterns. If you enjoyed the base game's narrative and management loop, the DLCs provide more of what makes the game special.

Is the DLC necessary for beginners? No. Start with the base game to learn the mechanics. Once you have built a successful resort and rescued several climbers, the expansions will feel like a natural next step. For more foundational advice, check out our beginner guide and upgrades guide.

What about free content? Absolutely download all free updates. They enhance the experience without any financial commitment. The "Trailblazer" mapping tools, in particular, improve route planning significantly.