We have been keeping a close eye on every new piece of content for Dredge, and the Iron Rig DLC is no exception. Developed by Black Salt Games, this expansion merges cosmic horror with fishing simulation in a big, ominous new setting that feels right at home in the game’s sinister ocean world.
What Is the Iron Rig?
The Iron Rig is a sprawling, looming oil platform situated to the north of the main map. Once you install the DLC, you'll spot the structure's lights beckoning you across the dark waters - no instructions given. Fans of intense exploration will appreciate how the rig simply appears on the horizon, daring brave sailors to head north and investigate.
The Iron Haven Corporation and the Main Quest
The DLC introduces the Iron Haven Corporation, a mysterious organization that tasks you with helping their massive deep-sea platform become fully operational. Throughout your journey, you'll navigate new quests and gather special items that highlight the corp's questionable motives. The more you explore, the more you'll uncover about Iron Haven's less-than-wholesome activities - and how their ambitions impact the world of Dredge.
Expect to Revisit Familiar Places
Embarking on these missions often requires traveling far and wide across the map, even returning to areas you might have previously cleared. What keeps it interesting are the fresh hazards, fish, and opportunities for resource-gathering at every turn.
Expanded Gear and Upgrades
When you're heading out on the open sea, specialized equipment is key. The Iron Rig DLC offers a wealth of new rods, nets, and other boating enhancements that will drastically change how you fish, fight, and flee. For instance, you'll see:
- High-Tier Fishing Rods: These let you catch newly introduced deep-sea monstrosities alongside the existing marine life.
- Advanced Nets: Clean up pesky oil slicks and haul in elusive creatures.
- Boat Modifications: Boost your reverse speed, improve your turning radius, and reduce cooldown times for special abilities.
From additional hull tiers to new baits, these features cater to veteran players who crave extra complexity - and reward those who systematically upgrade their ship.
Dark Waters and New Threats
One of the standout features of the Iron Rig DLC is the introduction of oil-based hazards. You'll quickly discover black, viscous patches that spread across the ocean, severely hindering your speed and maneuverability. Worse yet, some of these blobs gain a mind of their own and can chase your boat, occupy your cargo space, and infect any fish you're carrying. The more you progress, the more aggressive and resilient these oily adversaries become.
These new threats tie neatly into Dredge's overarching themes of cosmic dread and mounting panic. Oil slicks that move and block your path can trigger anxiety no matter the time of day, forcing you to juggle resource management, fish storage, and your own heart rate.
How Long Is the DLC?
Your playtime in the Iron Rig DLC can vary, typically running between 2 to 5 hours depending on:
- Main Story Focus: If you push through the required tasks quickly, expect a shorter run.
- Side Quests: Thorough players who want to complete bonus objectives can extend their journey.
- Resource Gathering: Unlocking top-tier gear can take time if you don't plan well, especially since the DLC dovetails into the main storyline.
Is It Worth the Price?
Many in the community are asking if the Iron Rig DLC justifies its $12 price tag. After poring over every new fish, region, and quest, we believe it's a solid investment for fans of the base game. The extra content offers:
- More exploration across all major regions of the map.
- Adrenaline-pumping tension that complements Dredge's unsettling ambiance.
- Unique mechanics like expansions to your boat's capabilities and menacing new enemies.
- Deeper narrative layers woven seamlessly into existing lore.
If you're new to Dredge, you can dive in whenever you feel comfortable exploring north. On the other hand, if you're already well into your main campaign, jump aboard the Iron Rig and see if you can handle the DLC's heightened challenges without losing your mind - or your cargo.
Our Tips for Surviving the Iron Rig
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Plan Your Route
Iron Haven quest lines crisscross the entire map. Keep track of tasks and plot your route to minimize backtracking - especially if you're collecting new crates or research materials.
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Don't Skimp on Research Parts
You'll need upgraded rods, nets, and hulls to withstand the rig's creeping oil menace and to haul in monstrous fish. Save your research parts for equipment that boosts speed or addresses DLC-specific hazards.
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Time Your Abilities
Oil blobs and other new threats can swarm you unexpectedly. Flick between banish, haste, and any nets in your arsenal to keep these terrors in check. Switching abilities on the fly can be the difference between a successful haul and a sunken ship.
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Stay on Top of Panic
The Iron Rig's black goo can send panic levels through the roof - day or night. Don't hesitate to dock and rest if your nerves are shot. After all, the cosmic depths show no mercy to those who sail unprepared.
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Integrate With Your Main Game
If you're just beginning your first Dredge playthrough, consider tackling the DLC content as it naturally fits with your progress. The difficulty escalates alongside the main storyline, ensuring you won't feel out of your depth too soon.
Final Verdict: A Must-Play Expansion
From unsettling oil slicks that chase you down to advanced boat upgrades that empower you against the darkest horrors lurking beneath the waves, the Iron Rig DLC packs significant content into its mysterious new region. The atmospheric tension and tangible sense of dread remain hallmarks of the Dredge experience. If you're already hooked on the main game's Lovecraftian flavor, this expansion is a worthy investment that extends your maritime adventures by a substantial margin.
As a price comparison platform, we at GameGator love to keep you informed on all things gaming - especially when a DLC like Iron Rig merges quality, challenge, and immersive storytelling. We highly recommend setting sail for these troubled waters, whether you're a newcomer eyeing a briny new challenge or a returning captain craving deeper nightmares.
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