Fix Content Not Found Error in GoW Ragnarok Valhalla

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The “Content Not Found” error, often appearing as code W-118728-7, prevents players from accessing the exciting Valhalla DLC in God of War Ragnarok on PlayStation consoles. This issue typically arises because the free expansion pack does not install automatically with game updates, leaving many eager fans frustrated upon launch.

Understanding the W-118728-7 Error Code

This specific error indicates that your PlayStation system cannot locate the necessary DLC files for Valhalla, even if you own God of War Ragnarok. It’s a common hurdle for both PS4 and PS5 users, stemming from incomplete downloads or license mismatches. Unlike base game patches, DLC requires separate installation from the PlayStation Store, which catches many off guard during hype-driven launches.

Players report seeing the error right after a game update prompt, only to hit a wall when trying to enter the new roguelite content. Community forums and videos highlight this as the top complaint post-release, but the fixes are straightforward once identified.

Primary Solution: Manually Install the Valhalla DLC

The most reliable fix starts with directly downloading the DLC from your game library or the PlayStation Store. Here’s how to do it step by step:

  • From your PS5 or PS4 home screen, navigate to your Game Library.
  • Locate God of War Ragnarök in the list.
  • Highlight the game icon and press the Options button (three lines) to check for add-ons.
  • Select Valhalla DLC if listed and initiate the download.
  • Alternatively, search for “God of War Ragnarok Valhalla” in the PlayStation Store app and download it there.

PS4 owners might benefit from “downloading” the PS5 version of the DLC, as it can trigger the correct files without compatibility issues. Wait for the full installation before relaunching the game—progress bars can be deceptive with large files.

Verify and Restore Game Licenses

If manual download doesn’t resolve it, your console’s license database might be out of sync. Restoring licenses refreshes access to all purchased or entitled content:

  1. Go to Settings > Users and Accounts > Other.
  2. Select Restore Licenses.
  3. Confirm and wait 5-10 minutes for the process to complete.

This method syncs your account entitlements across the system, fixing hidden permission glitches. It’s safe and doesn’t delete save data.

Account Authentication Steps

Ensure you’re signed into the correct PlayStation Network account—the one that owns or has access to God of War Ragnarok. DLC entitlements are tied to specific profiles:

  • Check your active user profile matches the purchase account.
  • Log out via Settings > Users and Accounts > Sign Out, then log back in.
  • If sharing consoles, enable console sharing and offline play under Settings > Users and Accounts > Other.

Family sharing or primary account setups often trip this up, so double-check entitlements in the Store.

Software and Game Updates

Outdated firmware or game versions can block DLC recognition. Update everything:

ComponentUpdate Steps
GameHighlight God of War Ragnarök > Check for Update
System SoftwareSettings > System > System Software > System Software Update
DLC SpecificallyPlayStation Store > Library > Check Add-ons

Post-update, restart the console to apply changes fully.

Basic Troubleshooting Techniques

Quick resets often clear temporary glitches:

  • Close and Relaunch: Fully quit the game (press PS button > highlight game > Close Game), then reopen.
  • Console Restart: Hold power button for 7 seconds for hard reboot, or use Safe Mode (hold power during startup > Restart PS).
  • Clear Cache (Safe Mode): Option 4 in Safe Mode rebuilds database without data loss.

These steps resolve 80% of transient errors without advanced intervention.

Advanced Fixes for Persistent Issues

If basics fail, escalate:

  • Rebuild Database: Boot to Safe Mode > Option 5. This scans and repairs corrupted files.
  • Delete and Reinstall DLC: From game add-ons, delete Valhalla, then redownload.
  • Check Storage: Ensure 100GB+ free space; move data if needed via Settings > Storage.

Avoid full game reinstalls unless necessary, as saves are cloud-backed.

Platform-Specific Considerations

PS5 vs. PS4 Differences

PS5 users benefit from faster downloads but may need to disable auto-updates temporarily. PS4 players report success downloading PS5 DLC variants, leveraging backward compatibility. Both support cross-gen saves seamlessly once fixed.

Digital vs. Disc Owners

Disc users still need digital DLC download—no physical copy exists. Link your PSN account during setup.

When to Contact Support

For unresolved cases:

  • Visit PlayStation Support site > Chat or ticket with error code, console model, and steps tried.
  • Santa Monica Studio support for game-specific bugs.
  • Provide logs from Settings > System > Console Information.

Response times vary, but launches see high volumes.

Preventing Future DLC Errors

Pro tips:

  • Enable automatic DLC downloads in Store settings.
  • Regularly restore licenses monthly.
  • Monitor official GoW socials for patch notes.

Staying proactive keeps your Norse saga uninterrupted.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What causes the W-118728-7 error in Valhalla DLC?

It occurs when the DLC isn’t manually downloaded or licenses fail to sync, despite owning the base game.

Is Valhalla DLC free?

Yes, free for all God of War Ragnarok owners, but requires separate download.

Does restoring licenses delete my saves?

No, it only refreshes entitlements; saves remain intact.

Can I play Valhalla on PS4?

Yes, fully supported with potential PS5 DLC download trick.

How long does manual DLC download take?

20-60 minutes depending on internet speed and pack size (~40GB).

What’s New in Valhalla DLC?

Beyond fixes, Valhalla introduces roguelite challenges in a post-game realm, with new combat trials, lore, and Kratos’ introspection. Fixing access unlocks hours of replayable content.

References

  1. How To Fix Content Not Found W-118728-7 In God Of War — YouTube. 2023.
  2. [FIXED] Content Not Found in God of War Ragnarok Valhalla — YouTube. 2023.
  3. How to Fix God of War Ragnarok Valhalla DLC Not Working — Escapist Magazine. 2023-12-12. https://www.escapistmagazine.com/how-to-fix-god-of-war-ragnarok-valhalla-dlc-not-working/
  4. Fix Error WS-118728-7 Content Can’t Be Found In God — YouTube. 2023.
  5. God of War Ragnarok Valhalla Content Not Found W-118728-7 Fixes — Pro Game Guides. 2023-12-13. https://progameguides.com/god-of-war/god-of-war-ragnarok-valhalla-content-not-found-w-118728-7-fixes/
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