Steam – In Steam, why are some DLC shown as separate entries and some are not

steam

Why is there a difference on how DLC content is shown on Steam? While some DLC is only shown under a "DLC" tab after clicking on "properties" (1), other DLC are shown separately as new game entries (2)?

(1) Example of first case:

Steam game properties

(2) Example of second case:

Steam game entries

Best Answer

Missing Link is weird for DLC, and it kind of rides the line between "standalone expansion" and DLC. It isn't accessed from Deus Ex: Human Revolution (like the other items you mention), you have to load it separately. There's no way to start Missing Link from within Human Revolution, and vice versa.

Usually this means that you don't have to own the base game to play ("standalone expansion") but in this case, you do.

In practical terms, you can install Human Revolution without Missing Link (and I believe vice versa). Most DLC on Steam is not like this - once you own the DLC, you get no choice as to whether or not it is installed with the base game.