If you blinked last week, you probably missed a pair of DLC packs released for Fallout: New Vegas. The first, Fallout: New Vegas: Courier's Stash, collects all of the pre-order gear previously available only to players who pre-order Fallout: New Vegas from certain retailers. Although it doesn't include any new story content, it does offer a few new options for newcomers just starting their adventure in the Mojave.

Fallout: New Vegas: Courier's Stash isn't something for everyone. Most of the equipment is meant for low-level characters rather than the high level Couriers most players probably have by now. The additional Stimpacks and Weapon Repair Kit are nice additions, though I'm sure most players will toss the weapons or sell them.

Of the included items, the only one I'm not comfortable with is the Vault 13 canteen. When used, the item heals your character and reduces thirst. It sounds cool, but it disrupts Hardcore Mode just enough to feel like cheating. As long as it is in your possession, you'll take a swig every couple of minutes. The boost isn't massive, but does go against the spirit of the Mode.

Caravan Pack

• Lightweight Leather Armor
• Sturdy Caravan Shotgun
• 40x 20 Guage Shotgun Shells
• 4x Weapon Repair Kit
• Binoculars

Classic Pack

• Armored Vault 13 Jumpsuit
• Weathered 10mm Pistol
• 50x 10mm Rounds
• Vault 13 Canteen
• 5x Stimpack

Mercenary Pack

• Lightweight Metal Armor
• Mercenary's Grenade Rifle
• 20x 40mm Grenade
• 3x Super Stimpack
• 3x Doctor's Bag

Tribal Pack

• Tribal Raiding Armor
• Broad Machete
• 5x Bleak Venom
• 10x Throwing Spear

Fallout: New Vegas: Courier's Stash is a complete value call. The additional Stimpacks were a lifesaver considering where I was in my game (getting ready for the Lonesome Road DLC), though I found no use for any of the other items. By now I have much better gear, so the additional "Starter Items" did nothing for me. Even if I was starting another character, I would personally want to skip out since I like the "desert scavenger" experience.

I do, however, recognize a few players will want an extra little boost from the start. If you're in that number and considering picking up Fallout: New Vegas (and, if you haven't played it, you really should), the Fallout: New Vegas: Courier's Stash is an okay pick-up for the price.