Unlocking the Legend: Do You Need Forsaken for Thorn in Destiny 2?
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The short answer is no, you do not need the Forsaken DLC to acquire Thorn in Destiny 2 anymore. However, the path to obtaining this iconic hand cannon has changed significantly over time, and understanding its history is key to knowing how to get it today. Thorn’s journey is intertwined with the Destiny Content Vault and the evolution of Destiny 2’s DLC model.
A Twisted History: Thorn and Forsaken
Thorn debuted in Destiny 2 during the Season of the Drifter, which was part of the Year 2 Annual Pass content. Back then, owning Forsaken or the Annual Pass was a requirement to access the questline, “An Independent Study,” that ultimately rewarded you with Thorn. This is where the misconception about needing Forsaken comes from. The original quest required players to delve into activities that weren’t necessarily locked behind Forsaken content but the initial access to the quest was.
The Destiny Content Vault and Changing Access
With the introduction of the Destiny Content Vault (DCV), Bungie removed several older campaigns and destinations, including the Forsaken campaign and the Tangled Shore. While this decision was controversial, it was made to optimize the game and allow for more manageable content updates. This shift also meant a change in how players could access content like Thorn.
Thorn Today: How to Obtain It Now
Currently, Thorn is available through the Monument to Lost Lights terminal located in the Tower. This terminal houses a collection of Exotic weapons that were previously tied to vaulted content. To acquire Thorn, you’ll need the following:
- 1 Exotic Cipher
- 125,000 Glimmer
- 200 Legendary Shards
- 1 Ascendant Shard
You can earn Exotic Ciphers through various activities, primarily completing Xur’s weekly quest. Glimmer is the common in-game currency, and Legendary Shards are obtained by dismantling Legendary gear. Ascendant Shards are harder to come by but can be earned through activities like Nightfall: The Ordeal strikes and by purchasing them from Master Rahool.
Why the Confusion Persists
Despite Forsaken no longer being a requirement, the confusion about needing it for Thorn lingers because of the hand cannon’s origin and historical association with the DLC. Many older guides and forum posts still reference Forsaken as a prerequisite, which can mislead new players. Hopefully, this article clears the confusion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Thorn
1. Is Thorn a good weapon in Destiny 2?
Yes, Thorn is considered a very strong weapon, especially in PvP (player versus player) combat. Its unique perk, Mark of the Devourer, causes rounds to pierce targets and leave a lingering damage-over-time effect. This can shut down enemy healing and provide a tactical advantage. The Thorn catalyst enhances the weapon even further.
2. What does the Thorn catalyst do?
The Thorn catalyst grants bonus range and stability to the weapon. This significantly improves its accuracy and handling, making it even more deadly in both PvP and PvE (player versus environment) activities. The masterworked Thorn’s range goes up to 69, and stability is at 65.
3. How do I get the Thorn catalyst?
The Thorn catalyst drops from crucible matches. Go to the crucible to earn your catalyst.
4. What should I pair with Thorn in Destiny 2?
Thorn pairs well with weapons that can cover different ranges and fill specific roles. A bow with quick access sling or a dex mod is a great option for engaging at medium to long ranges. A shotgun or fusion rifle could provide strong close-range capabilities.
5. What happened to the Forsaken campaign?
The Forsaken campaign was removed from Destiny 2 as part of the Destiny Content Vault. Bungie wanted to reduce the game’s overall size and complexity, making it easier to implement new content.
6. Can I still play the Forsaken campaign?
No, the Forsaken campaign is no longer playable in Destiny 2.
7. What are Forsaken Ciphers used for?
Forsaken Ciphers can be found in the Forsaken section of the Monument of Lost Lights Exotic Archive in the Tower. They are used to purchase any Forsaken Exotic weapon in the Archive. If all Exotic weapons have been purchased, the Ciphers can be turned in for an Ascendant Shard.
8. How do I get Forsaken Ciphers?
Three Forsaken Ciphers could be found in the Forsaken section of the Monument of Lost Lights Exotic Archive in the Tower, and they can also come from special promotion packages. Now, since they have mostly been phased out, if all Exotic weapons have been purchased, the Ciphers can be turned in for an Ascendant Shard.
9. Is there Thorn armor in Destiny 2?
Yes, there are Thorn Armor Sets in Destiny 2 that can be acquired by playing The Grasp of Avarice dungeon.
10. How did Rose become Thorn?
Rose was originally the hand cannon of Rezyl Azzir, a noble Guardian who fell to Darkness and became Dredgen Yor. Azzir’s corruption imbued Rose with Darkness, transforming it into Thorn.
11. How does Thorn relate to Lumina?
Thorn is the corrupted form of Rose. The original Thorn was eventually cleansed and transformed back into its base form, Rose. When imbued with Light, Rose becomes the hand cannon Lumina.
12. Who carried Thorn?
Dredgen Yor, formerly Rezyl Azzir, carried Thorn after his fall to Darkness. He used the weapon to spread corruption and terror.
13. Is Thorn getting a nerf?
As of my last update, there have been no announced nerfs planned for Thorn.
14. Is Thorn OP (Overpowered)?
Whether Thorn is considered “OP” is subjective and depends on the current meta. However, its unique perk, Mark of the Devourer, and the added benefits of its catalyst often make it a top-tier choice in the Crucible, giving it a reputation for being very powerful.
15. Where can I learn more about the history of Destiny and its impact on education?
You can find insightful information about the educational aspects of gaming and the Destiny universe on the Games Learning Society website: https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. The GamesLearningSociety.org explores how games can be used to promote learning and development.
In conclusion, while Forsaken is not required to obtain Thorn, understanding its history and the current acquisition methods will ensure you can add this powerful hand cannon to your arsenal. Good luck, Guardian, and may your shots always find their mark!