Destiny 2: Untangling the Cosmos – Factions, Lore, and Everything in Between
Destiny 2 is vast. It twists and turns like a Hive tomb ship. Keeping track feels impossible. But don’t worry, Guardian. We will explore Destiny 2’s depths, from forgotten factions to its storyline. This guide has no nagging Ghosts and some dry wit.
Factions: Them?
Dead Orbit: The Emo Kids of the Last City
Let’s start with factions. Specifically, Dead Orbit. them? If you’re a new player, maybe not. For veterans, they were like that high school band. They wore black and thought the end was near. And, in Destiny, they weren’t entirely wrong.
So, what was Dead Orbit? In Destiny 2’s universe, they were one of three main factions. Others were Future War Cult (FWC) and New Monarchy. They were not typical groups for rewards, but they had some cool loot. Their aim was escaping Earth. They wanted a future in space, not on a broken planet. They were the preppers of the Destiny universe.
Dead Orbit lacked a traditional leader. They were a collective, united to leave Earth behind. No one led them; just Guardians with ships targeting the void. Maybe they were too democratic for their own sake?
ing Dead Orbit was easy. You pledged allegiance during Faction Rallies. This event meant grinding activities for faction-specific rewards. Each faction offered unique weapons, armor, and shaders – all things Guardians craved. Dead Orbit’s style was edgy, with black shaders and gear made for space explorers.
Now, why did factions vanish like Titans? Simply put, Destiny 2’s faction system never recaptured original Destiny’s magic. Players tended to gravitate toward factions with the best loot each rally. Engagement was low, and the system felt forced. Bungie noticed this lack of loyalty and removed it altogether. Rest in peace, Faction Rallies.
Will factions come back? That question lingers like a Hive Knight. There’s always hope. Bungie hints at nostalgia sometimes. Whispers suggest factions might return in some altered form. Imagine faction-themed content or PvE tied to pledges. During Faction Rallies, you chose Dead Orbit, FWC, or New Monarchy. Simpler times.
And let’s not forget the iconic Dead Orbit emblem. It is simple and stark. A symbol of preferring space over Earth. Emblems provide nice touches of personalization in Destiny 2. Even if your faction is gone, you can still show off that emblem if you once believed in escaping Earth.
Gameplay and Content: The Ever-Shifting Sands
XIM: The Mouse and Keyboard Question Mark on Consoles
Let’s talk gameplay. A hot topic is XIM. “What is XIM?” you may ask suspiciously. In Destiny 2, XIM allows console players to use mouse and keyboard. Sounds harmless on the surface, right?
Things turn murky in competitive play, especially in the Crucible. Mouse and keyboard provide advantages with aiming compared to controllers. Players using XIM can aim like PC players while on console. This causes heated debates about fairness.
CammyCakes Gaming voiced frustrations about XIM in a YouTube video. He explored how XIM devices feel unfair to many players. The video also discussed “code injection and AI assistance,” meaning these devices can manipulate game mechanics in unintended ways.
The big question: “Can using XIM get you banned?” Bungie’s stance on XIM is ambiguous. They won’t explicitly say ‘s will be banned.’ However, ban waves are always possible. As mentioned in the video, they might “ban you at least sometimes; they do ban waves.” It’s a risk – using XIM is like playing with fire.
Destiny 2 Stability: The Crash Landing Experience
Now let’s address stability. “Why is Destiny 2 unstable?” Many Guardians mutter this when their game crashes mid-raid or during crucial Trials matches. Game crashes feel as confusing as Vex architecture.
A common cause? In-game overlays from Discord or Steam can clash with Destiny 2. These overlays can create performance issues and lag spikes. To fix this? Just turn them off. It’s often surprisingly effective in resolving conflicts and improving gameplay.
But overlays aren’t the only villains affecting stability. Network issues matter too; Destiny 2 relies on having a solid internet connection. “Unstable connections or high ping can cause crashes,” especially in multiplayer modes. Lag spikes or disconnects might not be your fault; it might be the internet gremlins causing havoc.
Sometimes game settings matter too. “Incorrect graphics settings or display mode can lead to crashes.” Push your system too hard with high settings and crashes may result. Striking a balance between visual detail and smooth gameplay is crucial. Lower settings sometimes help if crashes occur frequently.
Content Vault: Where Did My Planets Go?
The Destiny Content Vault (DCV) sends shivers down some Guardians’ spines. “What content was removed from Destiny 2?” opens a big question about vaulted content. Bungie aims to manage game size and improve
performance led to the DCV implementation. This meant removing significant amounts of Destiny 2 content, including campaigns and destinations. The culling started with the Beyond Light expansion in 2020. Mars, Io, Titan, and Mercury, along with campaigns like the Red War, Curse of Osiris, and Warmind, were placed into the vault.
The question “Why was content removed?” has a few key reasons. First, technical issues played a role. Game size needed reduction to improve performance and simplify updates. Destiny 2 became a massive game in content and size. Vaulting content was a necessary measure to keep the game manageable and avoid collapse. Renovating a constantly expanding house requires decluttering.
Next is content overload. The aim was to streamline the player experience and highlight newer content. With vast content accumulated, Destiny 2 risked overwhelming new players. The DCV aimed to provide a focused experience, guiding players towards current storylines and activities. Imagine Marie Kondo-ing your Destiny experience by removing clutter.
Lastly, in-game story elements justified content removal. Pyramid ships arrived and erased planets and moons from existence. Bungie cleverly wove the DCV into the narrative. The Pyramid ships’ Darkness-infused actions provided a lore-friendly reason for vanishing planets. It became part of the continuing story, adding in-universe reason for this action. Still, some miss Titan’s methane seas.
Destiny 3: The Unspoken Question
Destiny 3 is the question on many Guardians’ minds. “Is it coming?” The short answer: there are no plans for Destiny 3. Bungie remains committed to Destiny 2’s ongoing evolution and expansion. The focus is on enhancing the existing game, not starting anew with a sequel. For now, Destiny 3 is a topic of speculation and desire.
This doesn’t mean “Is Destiny 2 being abandoned?” Absolutely not. Bungie is not abandoning Destiny 2 after The Final Shape. This expansion is seen as the culmination of the Light and Darkness saga but is not the end. Plans exist for future content, seasons, and expansions beyond The Final Shape. Breathe easy, Guardians; the fight against darkness continues.
Destiny 2 in Decline? Player Counts and Perceptions
“Is Destiny 2 in decline?” The numbers tell a story. Reports indicate significant loss, stating that “Destiny 2 Has Lost 90% Of Its Steam Players In Seven Months.” No matter how you analyze it, that’s a substantial drop. While Steam player counts aren’t the only metric for overall health (the game is also on consoles), a 90% decline on Steam raises concerns.
Despite mentions of “Tons Of Content,” retaining players seems challenging. It could be content fatigue, grinding, or players moving to other games. The reasons are multifaceted and complicated. The live-service model is a double-edged sword; constant updates are necessary, but keeping players engaged long-term is difficult.
New players face questions like “Why is Destiny 2 bad for new players?” Entering Destiny 2 as a newcomer can feel like diving deep into Lightfall without guidance. “Destiny 2 is packed with loot that’s hard to obtain, often requiring currencies that new players struggle to gather.” The vastness of content, currencies, systems, and lore can be overwhelming. Critiques on the new player experience highlight issues Bungie must address for welcoming newcomers.
Blink: The Warlock’s Elusive Teleport
Blink is a unique movement ability for Warlocks. “How do you blink in Destiny 2?” For beginners, it’s a short-range teleport available to certain Warlock subclasses. Mastering Blink is crucial in PvP, almost like learning a movement language in Destiny 2.
The key aspect to good Blink is timing. “When using a far blink, delay the second jump input.” This slight pause before vanishing is vital for maximizing distance and control during Blink. Practice enhances effectiveness in using this ability in gameplay.
Then there’s the legendary “Ghost blink.” “How to Ghost blink?” Unfortunately, it’s not possible in Destiny 2. “You could pay attention in class or focus intensely on staring.” This humorous takes is not related to the game; instead, it suggests unnerving friends with real-life ‘blink.’ Keep your priorities straight, Guardians.
Earth Zones: A Tour of Our Ruined Home
Earth stands as our battleground now. Destiny 2’s Earth zones mix familiar places twisted by the Collapse and aliens. Let’s take a quick tour.
- The Last City: “Humanity’s last bastion, home to the Tower.” The Tower symbolizes hope amid remnants of destruction.
- City Perimeter: “The area surrounding the City, including Twilight Gap.” A landscape representing scars from past battles, including Twilight Gap.
- Eastern Flood Zone: “A dry grassland featuring the Crucible Rusted Lands.” Previously fertile lands, retaken as a Crucible arena.
- European Dead Zone (EDZ): “Hosts Crucible maps like Memento and Widow’s Court.” Forests, ruins, and hidden corners create diverse environments for Crucible.
These Earth zones are more than settings; they are essential parts of the Destiny 2 universe, each with unique histories and challenges. Exploring them reveals fragments of lost worlds, reminding Guardians of what was once theirs.
Characters and Lore: The Pantheon of Guardians
Strongest Guardians: Legends Among Legends
Who’s the strongest Guardian in Destiny? This age-old debate continues. “In Destiny lore, identifying the ‘strongest’ Guardian is subjective based on various criteria.” Strength isn’t just raw power; it also includes skill and experience with Light and willpower. Some names consistently rank at the top for strength.
- Ikora Rey: “Ikora is a Warlock known for skills with Light.” Often deemed the strongest Warlock, some even call her the strongest Guardian overall. “Her abilities and experience render her formidable, considered a ‘fifth sigma’ guardian.” An impressive status shows her capabilities. “She’s known for mastering everything.” Indeed, Ikora Rey stands as one powerful Guardian, able to challenge Shaxx in Crucible.
- Saint-14: “He is a Titan revered for combat skills.” Saint-14 is recognized as particularly resilient and formidable on the battlefield.
- a name known for commitment and battle skill. “He fought the Vex for a century, proving his endurance.” A century against Vex? That earns you a place in Guardian legend. “Saint-14, a Titan, is among the strongest Lightbearers in Destiny 2.” No shock.
- Osiris: “He is a Warlock who uses many supers at once, showing a rare ability.” Osiris, the outcast Warlock, is famous for his risky techniques and control of the Light. “He is recognized for mastering the Infinite Forest.” Mastering the Infinite Forest? That’s elite Warlock skill.
- Ana Bray: “Famous for her Golden Gun that creates solar light rings.” Ana Bray, Hunter with a golden gun and a talent for discovery. Leaving solar light? That feels dramatic.
- Lord Shaxx: “A Crucible Master known for expertise.” Lord Shaxx embodies Crucible chaos and loud . Crucible Master? Absolutely.
- Zavala: “A Titan ired for his leadership and might.” Commander Zavala, the firm Titan Vanguard, stands as a symbol of strength and guidance.
- Cayde-6: “A Hunter known for skill and charm.” Cayde-6, the witty Hunter Vanguard, lost but not overlooked. Abundant skill and charm.
- Eris Morn: “A Warlock noted for Hive knowledge.” Eris Morn, the Hive authority, wrapped in mystery, possessing forbidden wisdom.
- Felwinter: “A Titan cited for power and endurance.” Felwinter, the Iron Lord, a Titan with great force and a complex history.
These Guardians symbolize the height of Lightbearer strength. Each is renowned in their own way. They shape the fate of the Last City.
Uldren Sov/Crow: A Shift from Prince to Guardian
Uldren Sov. Or Crow? “Who is Crow in Destiny?” It’s a long tale with resurrections and emotional layers. “Uldren Sov Uldren Sov The image of Uldren Sov as Crow, alongside his Ghost, Glint.” Yes, Crow is Uldren Sov, brought back as a Guardian oblivious to his past. He was the prince behind Cayde-6’s death. Talk about redemption.
First seen in Destiny (2014), Uldren was voiced by Brandon O’Neill. His move to Crow is an intriguing arc in Destiny 2. Themes of identity and redemption shine here. Evolving from a major villain to an awkward Guardian? Just in Destiny.
Eris Morn: Alive and Laughing?
Eris Morn. The mysterious, Hive-touched Warlock. “What happened to Eris Morn?” Things turned strange. “In the recent ‘Heresy’ episode of Destiny 2, Eris Morn seemed killed by the Dread.” Seemingly dead? In Destiny, death rarely signals a finale. Especially with enigmatic characters like Eris. “But she later woke, laughing, perhaps indicating resurrection or a new story role.” Laughing? Eris Morn? That’s madness or a hidden plan. Either way, her journey continues, raising intrigue.
Cayde-6: Gone, Yet Not Forgotten
Cayde-6. The Hunter Vanguard who captured our hearts and then broke them. “How to get Cayde-6 emblem?” Sadly, you can’t revive Cayde (yet). However, you can acquire a Cayde-6 emblem. “Yo folks, there’s a new Funko Pop vinyl of Cayde-6. Buy it for an exclusive emblem.” Classic Funko route for digital rewards. Buy a figurine, gain a virtual emblem. Capitalism strikes!
What about reviving Cayde? “How is Cayde-6 alive?” Technically, he isn’t. But Destiny teems with potential, especially concerning Ahamkara wishes. “The ship is ‘Unforeseen Consequences’ and its text warns ‘Be careful what you wish for.'” “Be careful!” Reviving Cayde through an Ahamkara wish could lead to unforeseen aftermaths. In Destiny, chaos lurks around every turn.
Oldest Guardian: Senorette, the Ancient Lightbearer
“Who is the eldest living Guardian in Destiny?” Forget Ikora or Osiris – an older Guardian exists. “The oldest living Guardian on record is a woman named Senorette. We learn of her from a data entry addressed to Ikora.” Senorette claims, “I am a low power Guardian.” A low-power Guardian yet the oldest Lightbearer noted. Age does not equal strength here. Senorette symbolizes the everlasting Guardians, even those not on the front lines.
Items and Quests: Loot, Lore, and Legends
Xenophage: The Bug Gun of Boom
Xenophage. The exotic machine gun reminiscent of buzzing insects and striking hard. “How do you acquire Xenophage in Destiny 2?” The quest leads you to the Moon’s “Enduring Abyss.” “To begin the quest, head to Enduring Abyss, activate some statues. This serves as Eris’s base near the Pyramid ship during Shadowkeep.” Statues, puzzles, and lunar views – classic Destiny quest elements.
Next is the “Xeno Popper.” “How to get Xeno Popper?” The Xenopopper differs from Xenophage. “It drops from the Martian Saucer during the Martian Madness event with a 1/6 chance.” Martian Saucer? Martian Madness? Sounds like a B-movie sci-fi event. Destiny keeps surprising us.
Synthweave: Fashion Frame, Destiny Style
Synthweave. The currency for Guardians seeking fashion icons. “What is Synthweave in Destiny 2?” “Synthweave unlocks armor pieces as Universal Ornaments through Armor Synthesis. Players can ‘transmog’ their armor.” Transmog, the ultimate goal for style-savvy Guardians. Synthweave turns legendary armor into ornaments. Fashion over function? Sometimes, yes.
Born in Darkness: Stasis Subclass Unlocked
Born in Darkness. The quest granting the icy Stasis powers. “How to start Born in Darkness in Destiny 2?” “Gather 50 Energized Ether by defeating Fallen and score 10 Stasis melee kills on Europa.” Fallen and Europa await. “Head to Eventide Ruins and Cus Ridge to defeat Fallen. Then play 3 Strikes using Stasis.” Strikes, Stasis, grinding for power.
Subclass Unlocks: The Elemental Path
“How do you obtain Solar in Destiny?” Or Arc, or Void? Unlocking subclasses is crucial for new Guardians. “Commander Zavala sends players to Ikora Rey for missions: ‘Riding the Storm,’ ‘Stoking the Flame,’ and ‘Gazing into the Abyss.'” Zavala and Ikora guide through these quests to unlock Arc, Solar, and Void subclasses.
Omnioculus Exotic: Chest Armor Stealth
Omnioculus. The Hunter armor that grants stealth abilities. “How do you get
Omnioculus exotic? “You can only get the Omnioculus by farming Legend/Master Lost Sectors. Only on days that drop Exotic chest armor.” Farming Lost Sectors can be tedious. “You might get an Omnioculus from Exotic engrams after getting one from a Lost Sector.” After the grind, engrams may yield future rewards. RNGesus gives, and RNGesus takes away.
Emblems: Badges of Guardian Honor
Emblems are visual flexes that adorn your Guardian’s profile. “How to get persistent Blaze emblem?” “Earn by completing all Triumphs in Mastery category.” Triumphs prove dedication and skill, allowing players to earn a fiery emblem. Persistence rewards you with the Persistent Blaze emblem.
“How to get ghost in dark emblem?” “Visit a participating live channel and purchase 1 new subscription to claim Ghosts in Dark.” Twitch subscriptions link the game and streamers. ing them can lead to a ghostly emblem in return. A mutually beneficial relationship, indeed.
“How to get dark orbit in Destiny 2?” “Upon completing the initial Festival of the Lost Quest, receive an in-game Emblem for free.” Seasonal events often provide cosmetic rewards. Completing the initial quest grants you a Dark Orbit emblem, celebrating spacefaring escape artists.
Enemies and Story: Villains, Witnesses, and Final Shapes
Final Boss: The Ultimate Showdown
The Final Boss. Every Destiny expansion culminates in a showdown against a major enemy. “Who is the final boss in Destiny 2?” There are often multiple final bosses, depending on context. In one case, we face the “Stasis Subjugator.” “This one is harder and you fight him first. Stay in the back ring of barriers. It’s harder for his ice to reach you there.” Positioning and barriers are vital to defeating this challenging final boss.
The Witness: Shaping the Final Shape
The Witness. The main antagonist of the Light and Darkness saga. “What is the Witness’s final shape?” “The final shape would be the state of the universe under Witness control, a perfect, predictable state.” Perfection, predictability, order — this sounds less like salvation and more like stagnation. Witnesses aim for control, devoid of life’s chaos.
“What happened to the Traveler in Destiny 2 Final Shape?” Our silent benefactor is at the center of conflict again. “Guardians confront the Witness, now a gigantic god-like form, revealing it is part of the monolith.” Classic Destiny cosmic drama emerges as they weaken the Witness, allowing the Traveler to escape.
“What is the final shape in Destiny Lore?” “The Guardian and Vanguard must stop the Witness from creating the Final Shape—the destruction of all life.” The final shape symbolizes great threat. It represents annihilation of everything we hold dear in Destiny’s universe. It’s about saving existence itself.
First Villain: Eramis, the Kell of Darkness
“Who is the first villain in Destiny 2?” Although Destiny 2 has many antagonists, “Eramis is the first we see, wielding Darkness’s power.” As the main antagonist of the Beyond Light expansion, Eramis introduced players to Stasis and Darkness’s looming threat. Her motivations stemmed from past grievances and desperation.
The Nine: Enigmatic Cosmic Entities
“What are the 9 in Destiny?” The Nine are mysterious beings who operate on space’s fringes. “Some among the nine wished to free themselves from dependence on life.” The Nine have obscured motivations and origins with opaque agendas. Their powers are truly enigmatic, operating outside the Light and Darkness conflict. Their desires unfold in ways we attempt to comprehend.
Gameplay Mechanics: Arc Blind, Jolt, and Opposites
Arc Blind: Disorienting Debuff
“What is arc blind in Destiny?” Arc Blind is an electrifying debuff that disorients foes. “Blinding Unstoppable Champions will stun them.” This effect applies to all enemies. However, differences arise in PvE and PvP. “In PvE: Combatants cannot attack while blinded.” Arc Blind serves as a crowd control tool in PvE, rendering enemies harmless.
