Xenoblade Chronicles 3 Expansion Pass: what you need to know

Xenoblade Chronicles 3 Expansion Pass: what you need to know

(Image: © Nintendo)

 The Xenoblade Chronicles 3 Expansion Pass has arrived, and it’s chocked full of delicious JRPG content. Though the main game is practically bursting with story and battles galore, it’s fair to say that the promise of more Xenoblade goodness is enticing, to say the least. Fortunately, Nintendo has announced a DLC roadmap for the hit JRPG. 

Released on Nintendo Switch to remarkably positive reception, Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is step-up in JRPG storytelling. Its cast of characters are memorable and iconic, its battle system robust and complex and its central story has a heck of a lot to offer.  Xenoblade Chronicles 3 may well find itself on the list of the best RPGs in gaming before too long.  

The Pass will cost you $29.99/£26.99/AU$43.18, and can be grabbed on the My Nintendo Store. In exchange for your hard-earned cash, Nintendo is offering four “waves” of DLC. These are due to be released every six months or so until the end of 2023. Read on for everything we know so far about what to expect from the Expansion Pass.  

Xenoblade Chronicles 3 Expansion Pass guide

Xenoblade Chronicles 3 Expansion Pass: DLC Release Schedule

(Image credit: Nintendo)

The Xenoblade Chronicles 3 Expansion pass is due to be released in four waves. Nintendo has already announced release dates for each one. Wave 1 is already out, and can already be enjoyed by anyone who owns the Expansion pass. Wave 2 is due to hit December 31, 2022 – a perfect pick-me-up after new year's. Wave 3 is set to release April 30, 2023, followed by Wave 4 on December 31, 2023. 

Though Nintendo has enigmatically stated that we should "stay tuned" for "additional details", this hasn't stopped us from gathering every morsel of information we have so far. Read on, below!  

Xenoblade Chronicles 3 Expansion Pass: Wave 1

(Image credit: Nintendo)

Here's what's already available in Wave 1: 

• A large number of helpful items, including much sought after Nopon Coins.
• Alternate outfits for each main character, offering fancy new color schemes.  

Xenoblade Chronicles 3 Expansion Pass: Wave 2

(Image credit: Nintendo / Monolith Soft)

Wave 2 is due to drop December 31, 2022. Expect the following:

• A new Challenge Battle mode, offering a selection of difficult encounters. 
• A new Hero Character and an accompanying questline. This also means access to a new class. 
• More new outfits. 

Xenoblade Chronicles 3 Expansion Pass: Wave 3

(Image credit: Monolith Soft)

Coming out April 30 2023, here's what to expect in Wave 3:

• More Challenge Battles, fleshing out the new mode added in Wave 2
• Another Hero Character, as well as new quests to go with them and a new class to unlock. 
• Yet more outfits.  

Xenoblade Chronicles 3 Expansion Pass: Wave 4

(Image credit: Monolith Soft)

The final wave that we know of (so far), Wave 4 only has one feature, but it is arguably the most exciting. On December 31 2023, we'll be treated to a "new original story scenario". We're not sure what shape that'll take yet, but the opportunity for more insight into the world and characters of Xenoblade Chronicles 3 is certainly a welcome one. 

It may be a long way off, but there's clearly a great deal to look forward to in the Xenoblade Chronicles 3 Expansion Pass. With plenty of content due to hit over the course of the four DLC "waves", it looks like there's plenty more in store for Xenoblade fans. 

• Looking for more great Nintendo Switch experiences? Why not take a look at our guide to the best Switch games out there?