Overview
Destiny 2 is a free-to-play, first-person shooter videogame developed by Bungie and published by Activision. The game was initially released in 2017 and has since received several expansions and updates, including the Beyond Light expansion in 2020.
The game takes place in a fictional, post-apocalyptic future where humanity has been nearly wiped out by an alien race known as the Darkness. Players take on the role of Guardians, immortal warriors who wield the Light, a powerful force that grants them extraordinary abilities.
Gameplay
Destiny 2 features a variety of gameplay modes, including:
- PvE (Player versus Environment): Players team up to defeat computer-controlled enemies in missions, strikes, and raids.
- PvP (Player versus Player): Players compete against each other in various multiplayer modes, including Crucible matches, Iron Banner, and Trials of Osiris.
- Gambit: A hybrid PvP/PvE mode where two teams of four players compete to defeat enemies and bank motes.
- Patrols: Open-world areas where players can explore, complete quests, and gather resources.
Players can choose from three different character classes: Warlock, Titan, and Hunter, each with unique abilities and playstyles.
Weapons and Gear
Destiny 2 features a vast array of weapons and gear, including:
- Kinetic Weapons: Non-elemental weapons that deal physical damage.
- Energy Weapons: Weapons that deal elemental damage, such as arc, solar, or void.
- Power Weapons: Heavy weapons that deal massive damage.
- Armor: Protective gear that increases a player’s stats and provides special abilities.
- Mods: Items that can be slotted into weapons and armor to enhance their performance.
Players can acquire weapons and gear through drops from enemies, completing quests, or purchasing them from vendors.
Expansions and Updates
Since its release, Destiny 2 has received numerous expansions and updates, each adding new content and features. Some of the most notable expansions include:
- Curse of Osiris (2017): Introduced a new planet, Mercury, and a new raid lair, the Leviathan.
- Warmind (2018): Expanded the story with a new campaign and introduced the Escalation Protocol activity.
- Forsaken (2018): Added a new destination, the Dreaming City, and introduced the Gambit game mode.
- Shadowkeep (2019): Introduced a new storyline, the Season of the Undying, and featured a return to the Moon.
- Beyond Light (2020): Added a new subclass, Stasis, and introduced the Europa destination and Deep Stone Crypt raid.
The Traveler and The Darkness
At the center of Destiny 2’s lore is the Traveler, a mysterious entity that arrived in our solar system centuries ago and gifted humanity with the Light. However, the Traveler’s presence also attracted the attention of the Darkness, a malevolent force that seeks to consume all life.
Throughout the game’s story, players must confront the Darkness and its minions, including the Hive, Fallen, Vex, and Cabal. The conflict between the Light and the Darkness provides the overarching narrative for Destiny 2.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is Destiny 2 free to play?
A: Yes, Destiny 2 is free to play. However, some expansions and seasonal content require purchase.
Q: What is the difference between Destiny 2 and the original Destiny?
A: Destiny 2 is a standalone sequel to the original Destiny, featuring a new story, new destinations, and new gameplay features.
Q: What is the endgame content in Destiny 2?
A: Destiny 2 features a variety of endgame content, including raids, dungeons, and Nightfalls. These activities require high-level gear and teamwork to complete.
Q: What are the different character classes in Destiny 2?
A: The three character classes in Destiny 2 are Warlock, Titan, and Hunter. Each class has unique abilities and playstyles.
Q: How do I get powerful gear in Destiny 2?
A: Powerful gear can be obtained by completing various activities, including Nightfalls, raids, and weekly challenges.
Free-to-Play
Free-to-play (F2P) is a business model used by video game developers to offer their games to players for free while still generating revenue. F2P games typically rely on microtransactions, where players can purchase in-game items, such as weapons, cosmetics, or boosts, to enhance their gameplay experience.
The F2P model has become increasingly popular in recent years as it allows developers to reach a wider player base and earn revenue through optional purchases. It also reduces the barrier to entry for players who may not be willing to pay a upfront cost for a game.
However, F2P games can sometimes be criticized for having unbalanced gameplay or predatory microtransactions that pressure players to spend money to progress. It is important for developers to create F2P games that are fair and rewarding for all players, regardless of their willingness to spend.
Bungie Inc.
Bungie Inc. is an American video game developer based in Bellevue, Washington. Founded in 1991, the company is best known for creating the Halo and Destiny franchises. Bungie began as a group of Mac game developers who created the Marathon trilogy in the early 1990s. In 1999, the company released Halo: Combat Evolved, which became a groundbreaking success and helped establish the Xbox as a major gaming platform. Bungie continued to develop the Halo franchise until 2010, when it left Microsoft and released Destiny in 2014. Destiny has also been a successful franchise, with over 100 million players worldwide. In 2018, Bungie split from Activision Blizzard and became an independent company once again. In 2022, Bungie was acquired by Sony Interactive Entertainment, which now owns all of its intellectual property.
First-Person Shooter
A first-person shooter (FPS) is a video game genre characterized by a first-person perspective, in which the player experiences the game world through the eyes of the protagonist. FPS games typically involve shooting enemies and completing objectives in a three-dimensional environment.
Key Features:
- Depicts the world from the protagonist’s perspective
- Places the player in the role of a combatant
- Features a strong focus on aiming and shooting mechanics
- Often incorporates fast-paced and action-packed gameplay
- Can be set in a variety of settings, including science fiction, fantasy, and historical contexts
Looter-Shooter
Looter-shooters are a subgenre of video games that combine elements of action, role-playing, and first-person shooting. They typically feature an open-world environment where players explore, loot items, and engage in combat. Common features of looter-shooters include:
- Randomized loot: Items, weapons, and equipment are randomly generated, varying in rarity and power.
- Character customization: Players create their characters and upgrade their stats and abilities through leveling up.
- Cooperative and competitive gameplay: Many looter-shooters offer both single-player and multiplayer modes, allowing players to team up or compete against each other.
- Emphasis on grinding: Players often need to grind for loot and experience to progress in the game.
- Progression systems: Looter-shooters typically feature progression systems that reward players for completing quests, defeating enemies, and looting valuable items.
Online Multiplayer Game
Online multiplayer games connect multiple players over a network, allowing them to interact and compete in virtual environments. Players can form teams or compete against each other, engaging in real-time strategic battles or cooperative missions. These games typically offer various game modes, customizable characters, and immersive environments that cater to diverse player preferences. Common genres include first-person shooters, real-time strategy games, and role-playing games. Online multiplayer games foster community building, social interaction, and a sense of camaraderie among players.
Science Fiction Games
Science fiction games are a popular genre of video games that explore futuristic themes and technologies. These games often feature advanced weapons, alien life forms, and space travel. Some of the most popular science fiction games include:
- Mass Effect
- Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic
- Halo
- Portal
- BioShock
Science fiction games can be set in a variety of different locations, from distant planets to post-apocalyptic Earth. They can also feature a wide range of gameplay styles, from first-person shooters to role-playing games.
Science fiction games are often praised for their ability to create immersive and thought-provoking experiences. They can also be used to explore social and political issues in a unique and engaging way.
Xbox Game Pass
Xbox Game Pass is a subscription service offered by Microsoft that provides access to a vast library of video games. Subscribers can play over 100 high-quality games, including Microsoft exclusives and titles from other publishers. The service includes both new and classic games, and new titles are added regularly.
Xbox Game Pass offers three tiers of subscription:
- Ultimate: Includes access to both the Xbox Game Pass library and Xbox Live Gold for online multiplayer.
- PC: Includes access to the Xbox Game Pass library on PC.
- Console: Includes access to the Xbox Game Pass library on Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S consoles.
Xbox Game Pass is a convenient and cost-effective way to experience a wide variety of games. The service provides a rotating selection of titles, so there’s always something new to play. Additionally, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers can access exclusive discounts and rewards, and can stream games to their devices through Xbox Cloud Gaming.
PlayStation Plus
PlayStation Plus is a paid subscription service offered by Sony Interactive Entertainment for the PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and PlayStation Vita video game consoles. Subscribers to the service receive access to exclusive features, including:
- Free monthly games: Subscribers receive several free games each month, which they can keep playing as long as they maintain their subscription.
- Online multiplayer gaming: PlayStation Plus is required to play online multiplayer games on PlayStation consoles.
- Exclusive discounts: Subscribers receive exclusive discounts on PlayStation Store purchases.
- Cloud storage: Subscribers have access to 100GB of cloud storage for game saves and other data.
- PlayStation Plus Collection: PlayStation 5 subscribers have access to a library of 20 popular PlayStation 4 games at no additional cost.
PlayStation Plus is available in three subscription tiers:
- Essential: Includes all the features listed above.
- Extra: In addition to Essential features, includes access to a catalog of hundreds of additional games.
- Premium: Includes all the features of Essential and Extra, plus access to a library of classic PlayStation, PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, and PlayStation Portable games.
Steam
Steam is a digital distribution platform for video games, developed by Valve Corporation. Launched in 2003, it has become the largest gaming platform in the world, with over 150 million active users. Steam allows users to purchase, download, and play games directly from its platform, as well as connect with friends, form communities, and create user-generated content.