How to Get Old Exotic Quests in Destiny 2: A Guardian’s Guide
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So, you’re itching to get your hands on some of those sweet, sweet legacy Exotics in Destiny 2, those weapons whispered about in hushed tones by veteran Guardians? Maybe you missed out on them the first time around, or perhaps you’re a new Light eager to wield the power of the past. Whatever your reason, you’ve come to the right place. The path to acquiring these relics of bygone eras might seem a bit convoluted, but fear not, Guardian, for I shall guide you.
The direct answer is this: You can no longer directly acquire most old Exotic quests that were previously available. Many of these quests have been retired and placed into the Destiny Content Vault (DCV). However, the Exotics associated with those quests are often obtainable through alternative means, primarily through the Monument to Lost Lights in the Tower. Furthermore, some Exotic quests are brought back on a rotating basis through the Legends tab in the Director. Owning the associated expansion or season pass linked to the Exotic is typically required to engage with these quests.
The Monument to Lost Lights is your primary destination. Found in the Tower, within the Vault access area, this terminal allows you to purchase Exotics that were tied to vaulted content. Be warned, though, these aren’t freebies. You’ll need a combination of resources, including:
- Glimmer: The ever-present currency of the Destiny universe.
- Legendary Shards: Obtained by dismantling Legendary and Exotic gear.
- Enhancement Prisms: Acquired from Nightfall strikes, the Gunsmith, or the Season Pass.
- Ascendant Shards: Rare materials earned through high-level activities like Grandmaster Nightfalls and Master Raids.
- Exotic Ciphers: Earned from the Season Pass or Xur’s weekly quest.
Understanding the Legends Tab
Since the Witch Queen expansion, Bungie has introduced a new way to access certain vaulted content through the Legends tab in the Director. This is how you can replay Exotic missions related to vaulted content, such as Presage (Dead Man’s Tale) and Vox Obscura (Dead Messenger).
- Navigate to the Destinations tab.
- Select Legends.
- Look for the featured weekly Exotic mission.
- Ensure you own the respective expansion or season to access the mission.
The Role of Xur and Legacy Engrams
Xur, the mysterious Agent of the Nine, is a crucial resource for obtaining older Exotics. While he doesn’t directly offer quests, he sells:
- Legacy Engrams: These Engrams contain Exotic armor pieces from previous expansions, offering a chance to fill gaps in your collection. Keep in mind that Legacy Engrams only contain Exotic armor and not weapons.
Other Avenues for Obtaining “Old” Exotics
While the Monument to Lost Lights is your best bet for most weapons, don’t overlook these additional methods:
- Nightfall Strikes: High-difficulty Nightfalls offer increased chances for Exotic drops, although these drops are usually random and not tied to specific quests.
- Lost Sectors (Legend/Master): These solo activities can reward specific Exotic armor pieces, rotating daily. Use websites and apps (like TodayInDestiny) to find the daily armor piece to target the slot that you need.
- Raids and Dungeons: Some older raids and dungeons, like Vault of Glass and Crota’s End (reintroduced content) have a chance to drop year 1 Exotics.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions Guardians have about acquiring old Exotic quests and weapons in Destiny 2:
1. What happens to my progress if I abandon an Exotic quest?
Generally, if you abandon an Exotic quest, your progress is saved. When you reacquire the quest, you should be able to pick up where you left off. However, there might be specific quests where progress is reset upon abandonment, so be cautious.
2. Can I replay Exotic missions if I already have the Exotic?
Yes, you can replay Exotic missions through the Legends tab, even if you already possess the associated Exotic. This allows you to experience the story and gameplay again. Note that you will not be able to collect another Exotic weapon if you already have it.
3. How do I get an Exotic Cipher?
Exotic Ciphers are primarily obtained through the Season Pass. Additionally, you can earn one by completing a weekly quest from Xur.
4. What if I don’t own the expansion or season associated with an Exotic?
You will typically need to purchase the corresponding expansion or season pass to access the Exotic. If the content is vaulted, the Exotic is likely available at the Monument to Lost Lights.
5. Is it worth keeping old Exotics, even if they’re not meta?
Yes, absolutely! Destiny 2’s meta shifts frequently. An Exotic that’s currently underpowered might become incredibly potent with future updates. Besides, having a diverse collection allows you to experiment with different builds and playstyles.
6. Where can I find the Quest Archive?
The Quest Archive is located in the Tower, near the Postmaster and Eververse. It’s in a small corner at the base of the steps. The Quest Archive allows you to pick up quests that you may have abandoned in the past.
7. Can Xur sell new Exotics?
Yes, Xur can sell new Exotics in the game! Xur consistently sells Exotic and Legendary armor and weapons with random rolls from now on.
8. What’s the fastest way to get Exotics in Destiny 2?
Farming high-difficulty Nightfall: The Ordeal activities is the most time-efficient way to acquire Exotics.
9. Are there any free-to-play Exotics in Destiny 2?
Yes, Destiny 2 offers several free-to-play Exotics that are obtainable without purchasing expansions or season passes. Some examples include Tractor Cannon, The Huckleberry, Arbalest, Riskrunner, Monte Carlo, Hard Light, Sturm, and Legend Of Acrius.
10. How do I know which Lost Sector is dropping which Exotic armor piece?
Websites like TodayInDestiny or similar Destiny 2 resources provide daily information on the Lost Sector rewards.
11. What is the Destiny Content Vault (DCV)?
The Destiny Content Vault is a system where Bungie removes older content from Destiny 2 to improve game performance and allow for new content. Vaulted content may return in the future.
12. If I already own an Exotic, can I get another one from the Monument to Lost Lights?
Yes, you can purchase copies of Exotics you already own from the Monument to Lost Lights. However, there’s usually no practical reason to do so unless you want to experiment with different rolls on the armor.
13. Does the Monument to Lost Lights contain every Exotic ever released?
No, not every Exotic is available at the Monument to Lost Lights. Some Exotics remain exclusive to specific activities or events.
14. Can I still get year 1 Exotics through specific activities?
Yes, content that has been brought back from the DCV, such as raids like Vault of Glass and Crota’s End, have a chance to drop year 1 Exotics.
15. Where can I learn more about the history of Destiny and its design?
For those interested in the deeper mechanics and design philosophy behind games like Destiny 2, consider exploring resources from organizations like the Games Learning Society, who study the educational and social impact of gaming. Visit their website at GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the world of Destiny 2’s Exotics can feel like deciphering an ancient code, but with this guide, you’re well-equipped to hunt down those legacy weapons you’ve been dreaming of. Remember to utilize the Monument to Lost Lights, check the Legends tab, and keep an eye on Xur. Good luck, Guardian, and may your Exotic collection grow ever stronger!