Bandai Namco just confirmed the second DLC pack for Digimon Story Time Stranger is arriving in January 2026, less than a month after the first expansion dropped. Additional Digimon & Episode Pack 2: The Fluttering Gakuran teams players up with returning character Hiroko to stop Parallelmon once again, this time with a squad of badass BanchoDigimon at your side.
The announcement came during the latest Digimon Times livestream on December 20, 2024. While the first DLC focused on interdimensional threats and Omnimon variants, this second pack leans hard into the Bancho aesthetic with delinquent-themed mega evolutions that bring serious attitude to your roster.
Meet the BanchoDigimon Crew
Five new Digimon join the roster with DLC 2, all sporting the iconic gakuran school uniform look that defines the Bancho family. While not all have been formally revealed yet, the confirmed lineup includes BanchoMamemon, BanchoLillimon, BanchoStingmon, and BanchoGolemon. A fifth BanchoDigimon remains under wraps for now, though dataminers have likely already spoiled the surprise.
For those unfamiliar, Bancho Digimon are essentially the delinquent bad boys and girls of the Digital World. They wear modified school uniforms, sport punk attitudes, and fight with overwhelming strength that backs up their swagger. BanchoLeomon already exists in the base game, so these additions expand the Bancho squad into a full team.
Each of these new Digimon comes with fresh Digivolution routes that presumably start at lower evolution stages and work up to the Mega-level Bancho forms. This follows the same pattern as DLC 1, which added five complete evolution lines for mega Digimon like BlitzGreymon, CresGarurumon, Omnimon Zwart Defeat, Omnimon Alter-B, and Omnimon Alter-C.
The Story Continues
The second episode pack picks up threads from DLC 1’s Alternate Dimension storyline. Players team up with Hiroko to confront Parallelmon again, suggesting the interdimensional villain from the first DLC isn’t quite finished causing problems across time and space.
Hiroko is a familiar face to longtime Digimon Story fans. She appeared in Digimon Story Cyber Sleuth as a supporting character, making this another case of Time Stranger bringing back beloved characters from previous entries. Her father Kodai also showed up in DLC 1, so this second pack seems to further develop that family’s involvement in the interdimensional crisis.
The subtitle “The Fluttering Gakuran” directly references the iconic Japanese delinquent school uniform, suggesting the story will heavily feature these tough-guy Digimon and their culture. Whether that means comedic interactions with the protagonists or serious battles showcasing their power remains to be seen.
Pricing and Availability
DLC 2 will be included for anyone who purchased the Deluxe or Ultimate Editions of Digimon Story Time Stranger, as both versions include the full Season Pass. The Season Pass contains all three planned DLC packs and was also included as a standalone purchase option at launch for $30.
For players who bought the Standard Edition and don’t want the full Season Pass, each individual DLC pack can be purchased separately for $12. This pricing matches DLC 1, making each story expansion roughly the cost of a movie ticket for a few hours of additional content.
The rapid turnaround from DLC 1 in December to DLC 2 in January shows Bandai Namco is keeping a consistent content cadence. Based on previous announcements, DLC 2 was originally scheduled for a January to March 2026 release window, so hitting the early part of that range suggests development is on track.
The Complete Season Pass Roadmap
Digimon Story Time Stranger’s Season Pass includes three Episode Packs total, each adding five new Digimon and story content. Here’s the current timeline:
- Episode Pack 1: Alternate Dimension – Released December 8, 2024. Featured Parallelmon, Omnimon variants, and interdimensional chaos.
- Episode Pack 2: The Fluttering Gakuran – Releasing January 2026. Features BanchoDigimon and continues the Parallelmon storyline.
- Episode Pack 3 – Expected April to June 2026. Details still under wraps, though dataminers claim to know what’s coming.
All three packs must release by September 30, 2026, according to the Steam store page. However, given the pace of the first two releases, the third pack will likely arrive well before that deadline.
Each DLC pack follows the same formula: five new Mega Digimon evolution lines, a story episode that introduces those Digimon, and integration into the larger narrative. This consistency makes the Season Pass feel like a proper expansion plan rather than random content drops.
Beyond the Episode Packs
The Season Pass Episode Packs aren’t the only DLC for Time Stranger. Bandai Namco has also released several costume packs, each with its own mini side quest:
- Cyber Sleuth Costume Set – Includes the side mission “In the Palm of an Unknown Hand”
- Swimwear Pack – Features “A Beach Episode” side mission with appropriate beach attire
- Chosen Children Set – Contains “The Targeted Cosplayer” side mission
- Anime Song Pack – 16 classic songs from eight different Digimon anime series
The Ultimate Edition also includes early unlock access to special versions of Agumon (Bond of Bravery) and Gabumon (Bond of Friendship) with their Digivolution conditions already completed. This lets players access powerful forms immediately rather than grinding through requirements.
How Time Stranger Recovered
The fact that Time Stranger is getting this level of post-launch support is notable given the franchise’s recent struggles. Digimon Survive, the previous major release, had a complicated development cycle and mixed reception despite eventually finding its audience. Time Stranger needed to prove the franchise could still deliver quality JRPG experiences.
By most accounts, it succeeded. Reviews praised the game’s return to traditional Digimon Story gameplay while incorporating quality of life improvements and a compelling time-travel narrative. The game launched on October 3, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC, giving it wide platform availability.
Player counts appear healthy enough to justify this aggressive DLC schedule. While exact numbers aren’t public, the rapid release cadence and confirmed roadmap extending through mid-2026 suggests Bandai Namco is satisfied with sales performance.
The game sits in an interesting position for Digimon fans. It’s not quite as accessible as the Pokemon-style creature collectors casual audiences might expect, but it’s also not as obtuse as some hardcore JRPGs. The sweet spot is longtime Digimon fans and JRPG enthusiasts who appreciate turn-based combat with depth.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Digimon Story Time Stranger DLC 2 release?
Additional Digimon & Episode Pack 2: The Fluttering Gakuran releases in January 2026. An exact date hasn’t been announced yet, but it falls within the previously stated January to March 2026 window.
What Digimon are included in DLC 2?
DLC 2 adds five new BanchoDigimon including BanchoMamemon, BanchoLillimon, BanchoStingmon, BanchoGolemon, and one unannounced Bancho. Each comes with a complete Digivolution line.
Is DLC 2 included in the Season Pass?
Yes, DLC 2 is included in the Season Pass, which is part of the Deluxe and Ultimate Editions. The Season Pass can also be purchased separately for $30, or individual DLC packs cost $12 each.
What is the story of DLC 2 about?
DLC 2 continues the storyline from the first expansion, with players teaming up with Hiroko to stop Parallelmon once again. The story features the BanchoDigimon and their delinquent school uniform aesthetic.
How many DLC packs are planned for Time Stranger?
Three Episode Packs are included in the Season Pass. Episode Pack 1 released in December 2024, Episode Pack 2 arrives in January 2026, and Episode Pack 3 is expected between April and June 2026.
Do I need DLC 1 to play DLC 2?
While the story continues from DLC 1, it’s unclear if completing the first episode pack is required to access the second. Typically these expansions can be played independently, though you may miss story context.
What platforms is Digimon Story Time Stranger available on?
Digimon Story Time Stranger is available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC via Steam. All DLC releases simultaneously across all platforms.
Is Digimon Story Time Stranger worth buying in December 2024?
If you enjoyed Digimon Story Cyber Sleuth or like turn-based JRPGs with creature collecting mechanics, Time Stranger delivers a solid experience. With DLC releasing regularly through mid-2026, there’s plenty of content to explore.
Keeping the Momentum Going
The January 2026 release of DLC 2 shows Bandai Namco is committed to supporting Digimon Story Time Stranger through at least the first half of next year. The two-month gap between DLC packs creates a sustainable rhythm that keeps players engaged without overwhelming them with content.
For Digimon fans who’ve stuck with the franchise through its ups and downs, this level of consistent post-launch support feels refreshing. The BanchoDigimon focus in particular caters to longtime fans who remember these designs from various Digimon media over the years. Getting them in a mainline Story game with full evolution lines is the kind of fan service that builds goodwill.
Whether this content plan can carry Time Stranger through 2026 and potentially beyond depends on continued sales and player engagement. But for now, the roadmap is clear, the content is flowing, and the Digital World keeps expanding. Mark your calendars for January 2026 when you can finally add some delinquent attitude to your Digimon team.