Dragon’s Dogma 2 Steelbook Edition: Is It Worth It

Capcom’s action RPG Dragon’s Dogma 2 arrived on March 22 on PS5, PS4 X/S, and PC. While the standard and deluxe digital editions are available on every platform, a limited-edition physical Steelbook Edition is available exclusively at Best Buy for those who prefer disc-based games.

Dragon’s Dogma 2 Steelbook Edition is priced at USD 69.99 like the regular paperback version. But Best Buy’s copy comes in a limited-edition steel game case with artwork of the main character holding a giant sword.

For RPG collectors and fans of premium game cases, this Steelbook makes for an attractive display piece. The metal case design is more durable than standard plastic cases and provides enhanced protection for the game disc.

Besides the alternate steel packaging, the contents of the Steelbook Edition are identical to the standard physical version. It comes with a disc for Dragon’s Dogma 2’s base game and the “Superior Weapons Quartet” pre-order bonus.

The bonus unlocks special enhanced starting weapons for each of the game’s four primary vocations/classes. While purely cosmetic, these golden weapons pack higher stats to give you an early edge in combat encounters.

What Bonuses Are in the Deluxe Edition?

For those who want more bonuses and in-game items, the digital-only Dragon’s Dogma 2 Deluxe Edition may be worth the $79.99 price tag instead. This premium version contains the “New Journey Pack” which includes:

• Ring of Assurance accessory 
• Explorer’s Camping Kit
• Dragon’s Dogma music/sound collection
• Harpysnare Smoke Beacons consumables
• Heartfelt Pendant accessory
• Ambivalent Rift Incense consumables
• Makeshift Gaol Key item
• Art of Metamorphosis item 
• Wakestone revival item
• 1,500 Rift Crystals (premium currency)

Many of these items are designed to provide boosts and convenience for the opening hours of Dragon’s Dogma 2. The Rift Crystals act as a currency for hiring AI-controlled Pawn companions, making it easier to tackle tough battles early on.

The Explorer’s Camping Kit lets you set up a portable camp to replenish resources, while consumables like Harpysnare Smoke aid in travel and combat. Accessories bestow stat bonuses, revival items prevent gameovers, and the Metamorphosis item allows you to re-customize your character’s appearance later.

So while the deluxe edition is $10 more than the standard, the bundle of bonus items and resources gives you a substantial head start in Dragon’s Dogma 2’s vast open world.

Is the Steelbook or Deluxe Edition Worth It?

For those RPG fans who prefer an actual copy, Best Buy recommends the Dragon’s Dogma 2 Steelbook due to its premium metal packaging. The tough steel game case is more durable and will double as a great collector’s display piece if you keep the disc in it.

At the same $69.99 price point as the standard physical edition, the Steelbook is absolutely worth grabbing if you don’t mind paying a few extra dollars for shipping. Supplies are limited though, so get your pre-order in quickly if interested.

As for the digital deluxe edition, it’s $79.99 asking price is a bit steeper but packs enough bonus items to substantially ease you into the early hours of this demanding action RPG. Between the healing/revival items, resource boosts, and big Rift Crystal currency stash, the deluxe bundle gives you plenty of breathing room while adjusting to Dragon’s Dogma 2’s challenging systems.

Of course, none of the bonuses are essential for completion. If you’re a hardcore RPG fan who wants to experience everything organically without paid advantages, the standard $69.99 version will suffice just fine. But more casual players may appreciate the deluxe edition’s shortcut conveniences.

Whatever version you choose, Dragon’s Dogma 2 has already been looking likely to be one of 2024’s most significant releases. The original cult classic combined in-depth RPG mechanics with massive monster fights. The sequel has already been set to be a more ambitious action RPG adventure with significantly enhanced visuals, an open world to discover, and brand new character vocations/classes to explore.