Left 4 Dead DLC Not Free

Multiple sites are reporting today that Chet Faliszek of Valve announced that the downloadable content, a new campaign entitled Crash Course, would be free for the PC version of the game, however, it would cost 560 MSP (roughly $7) for the 360 version of the game.

Faliszek blamed the price difference on where the DLC would be released; on PC it will be on Valve's own platform, Steam. In contrast, on Microsoft's 360 it will be on Microsoft's Xbox Live Arcade. "We own our platform, Steam. Microsoft owns their platform. They wanted to make sure there's an economy of value there," says Faliszek. He does acknowledge the first DLC for L4D being free on XBLA & PC, the reasoning he gives for this is that it would be unfair to other developers if Microsoft gave Valve preferential treatment, as their content would see a significant change in download numbers if it was free.

It is unfortunate in many ways that this content is not coming to Live for free as many gamers will not choose to experience it. It is only $7, however, many gamers will see that $7 better spent elsewhere, such as on a Live Arcade game like Shadow Complex or Trials HD.