Borderlands 2 DLC Release Date: Sir Hammerlock's Big Game Hunt Launches Jan. 15, Level Cap Increase Coming 'Early 2013'

On January 15th, Gearbox Software will release "Sir Hammerlock's Big Game Hunt," the latest DLC add-on for Borderlands 2, reports IGN.

Unlike 'Captain Scarlett and Her Pirate's Booty' and 'Mr. Torgue's Campaign of Carnage,' 'Sir Hammerlock' content is locked until players reach the level 30 threshold. The expansion's story takes place after the events of the single player campaign and introduces several new enemies, including floating spore enemies "that break apart and harm you with elemental damage," shamans that can "transform their allies into Badasses," long-legged insectile behomoths, and new weapon wielding warriors. Gearbox tells IGN that they are crafting a new Seraph crystal-dropping raid boss that "you won't be able to beat simply by going in with a super weapon."

The level cap will remain at 50; however, a 2K representative spilled that Gearbox plans to raise the limit "sometime in the first quarter of next year." Rolling off of the success of Borderlands 2 DLC, 2K assures players that a second season pass with more downloadable content is likely for 2013, which may usher in new characters alongside mission packs. It appears that episodic content is rooting itself deep in industry financial models, given the standout success of Borderlands 2 DLC and The Walking Dead this year. We are seeing a shift in how game studios and publishers are willing to do business.

Standalone, 'Sir Hammerlock's Big Game Hunt' will cost $9.99, and can also be purchased bundled with the Season Pass for $29.99.