Unlocking the Secrets of Mars in Destiny 2: A Guardian’s Guide
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
So, you’re itching to set foot on the rusty dunes of Mars in Destiny 2? The answer isn’t as straightforward as it once was, as Destiny 2’s landscape has evolved dramatically since its initial launch. Let’s get right to it.
How do I unlock Mars on Destiny 2?
Technically, you don’t “unlock” Mars in the traditional sense anymore. Mars was removed from Destiny 2’s playable destinations with the Beyond Light expansion, a process Bungie termed “content vaulting.” However, Mars returned partially with The Witch Queen expansion, but it’s not the same experience as before.
With The Witch Queen, you gain access to a specific area on Mars known as The Enclave, which serves as a hub for weapon crafting. This area is tied directly to the Witch Queen campaign.
To access The Enclave, you essentially need to begin The Witch Queen campaign. The initial mission will take you to Mars, and you’ll find yourself in the Throne World portal on the planet. You don’t necessarily need to complete the entire campaign, but starting it is crucial to unlock this limited section of Mars. It’s important to note that the vast, explorable open world of Mars from the original Destiny 2 release is no longer available for patrol or exploration.
Delving Deeper: Mars in Destiny 2’s History
The removal of Mars was a strategic decision by Bungie to optimize the game’s size and performance. Content vaulting allowed them to streamline the game’s offering, focusing on newer content while maintaining a manageable file size and reducing strain on their servers. While some lamented the loss of familiar locations, this also paved the way for the return of older content in reworked forms in the future.
Visiting the Enclave on Mars: A Step-by-Step Guide
Initiating the Witch Queen Campaign
The first step is to own the Witch Queen DLC. Without this, you won’t be able to access any of the Mars-related content.
Launching the First Mission
Once you own the DLC, head to the Destinations tab. You will find Savathun’s Throne World, select that destination. This will automatically launch the campaign.
Following the Questline
The initial missions of the campaign will guide you to The Enclave on Mars. Simply follow the on-screen prompts and objectives.
Weapon Crafting Hub
Once you’ve reached The Enclave, you can explore the area and interact with the Relic. This will unlock weapon crafting and other related activities.
FAQs: Your Burning Questions About Mars Answered
Here’s a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions to further illuminate the situation with Mars in Destiny 2:
1. Why was Mars removed from Destiny 2?
Mars, along with other planets like Mercury, Titan, and Io, was vaulted to reduce the game’s overall file size and improve performance. Bungie aimed to streamline the content offering and focus development resources on newer expansions and features.
2. Will the old Mars ever return to Destiny 2?
There’s no guarantee that the original version of Mars will ever return exactly as it was. Bungie has mentioned the possibility of reintroducing vaulted content in reworked or altered forms in the future.
3. What content was lost when Mars was removed?
The removal of Mars meant the loss of access to the planet’s patrol zone, strikes (like Exodus Down), adventures, and specific campaign missions related to the Warmind storyline.
4. Is there any way to experience the old Mars content now?
Unfortunately, no. Once content is vaulted, it becomes inaccessible within the game. You would need to search for archival footage on YouTube to see this content.
5. Do I need The Witch Queen expansion to access any part of Mars?
Yes. Access to The Enclave and the ability to craft weapons is tied directly to owning and starting The Witch Queen campaign.
6. Is The Enclave the only part of Mars that’s currently accessible?
Yes, the Enclave area is the only part of Mars currently accessible.
7. What is weapon crafting in Destiny 2?
Weapon crafting allows players to forge and customize their own weapons. This feature is primarily based within The Enclave on Mars and involves gathering materials, unlocking weapon patterns, and shaping the weapon to their desired specifications.
8. What is the Relic in The Enclave?
The Relic is the central crafting table in the Enclave, allowing you to shape, reshape and deconstruct weapons using the weapon crafting mechanic.
9. Are the missions required to access The Enclave free?
The initial introductory missions needed to reach The Enclave are available to all players who own The Witch Queen expansion. You will not be able to access The Enclave without owning the expansion.
10. Is the Mars from Destiny 1 the same as the Mars in Destiny 2?
While both versions share the same name and basic thematic elements, they are not identical. Destiny 2’s version of Mars featured different areas and activities compared to its Destiny 1 counterpart.
11. What happened to Rasputin on Mars?
In the Destiny lore, Rasputin, the Warmind AI, was a major presence on Mars. During the events leading up to Beyond Light, Rasputin attempted to defend humanity against the encroaching Darkness but was ultimately destroyed. A large piece of the storyline surrounded defending Rasputin on Mars.
12. Which planets were also removed from Destiny 2 besides Mars?
Besides Mars, the following planets were also removed: Mercury, Titan, and Io.
13. Why do some articles mention a portal to Mars on Venus?
These may be outdated references from previous seasons or events. Currently, the only way to access any part of Mars is through The Witch Queen campaign.
14. Can I still claim Mars?
This is a comical question, referencing Article II of the Outer Space Treaty. No, you cannot literally claim Mars. In the game, you can complete activities and earn rewards on the portions of Mars that are accessible.
15. Where can I learn more about game design principles used in Destiny 2?
To explore the fascinating world of game design and learning through play, check out the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org. This society delves into how games can be powerful tools for education and engagement.
Conclusion: Embrace the Ever-Evolving Destiny
While the original Mars experience may be gone, Destiny 2 continues to evolve. By starting The Witch Queen campaign, you can still experience a portion of Mars through The Enclave and unlock the powerful ability to craft your own personalized arsenal. Keep exploring, Guardian, and embrace the ever-changing landscape of Destiny!