ESRB: Optional DLC can have different rating

Last week we thought we had a better understanding of the ESRB's policy on DLC, namely that it has to stay within the game's rating or the title can be entirely re-rated. But ESRB president Patricia Vance has clarified the statement with MTV, saying that policy only applies if the content is part of a mandatory update. If it's optional, then just the content itself will have to carry a different rating.

This would seem to open the door for AO DLC, but it may be a moot point. At least one of the big three publishers (Microsoft) has already said it wouldn't allow that on its console. So those of you planning on buying the GTA IV DLC in the hopes of seeing some hardcore polygon on polygon action are just going to have to hold on to your ... points.