How Much Content is in Destiny 2 Without DLC?
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.
Destiny 2, even without its expansive DLC library, offers a significant amount of gameplay. You can expect around 40-60 hours of core gameplay focused on the initial Red War campaign, exploration of several key locations, access to core playlists like Crucible, Strikes, and Gambit (with limited maps), and the ability to level up and acquire a decent arsenal of weapons and armor. This content provides a solid foundation for understanding the game’s mechanics and enjoying its fundamental loops, although it’s worth noting that the end-game activities are noticeably curtailed compared to what’s available with expansions.
Exploring the Base Game Experience
The base version of Destiny 2 provides a taste of what the game has to offer, allowing players to experience the foundational elements without committing to any additional purchases. While the experience may be limited, it can be an enjoyable introduction to the world.
The Red War Campaign
The core of the base game is the Red War campaign. This storyline sees the Cabal Red Legion invade the Last City, stripping Guardians of their Light and forcing them to rebuild their power and reclaim their home. This campaign provides a substantial amount of story content, taking players through various environments and introducing them to key characters like Commander Zavala, Ikora Rey, and Cayde-6 (who is no longer present in the game with the later expansions). Completing the Red War campaign is a crucial step for understanding the lore and the core narrative of Destiny 2.
Core Playlists and Activities
Without DLCs, your access to playlists is limited to the basic offerings:
- Strikes: You’ll have access to a few Strikes that were available at the game’s launch. These cooperative missions offer a chance to team up with other players and take on challenging enemies.
- Crucible: The PvP arena, Crucible, provides a competitive experience. You can play various game modes against other Guardians. However, you’ll be limited to the maps that were included in the base game.
- Gambit: This hybrid PvE/PvP mode allows you to fight enemies while simultaneously competing against another team to send blockers and invade their side. Again, map availability is restricted.
Planets and Exploration
The base game allows players to explore several planets and locations:
- The European Dead Zone (EDZ) on Earth: A vast and varied environment to explore, with lots of Public Events and hidden areas.
- Titan: A methane ocean world offering unique gameplay and exploration opportunities.
- Nessus: A planetoid transformed by the Vex into a complex network of structures.
- Io: A barren moon of Jupiter that holds secrets of the Traveler.
These locations offer plenty of opportunities for exploration, completing Patrols, and participating in Public Events. However, keep in mind that many newer destinations and activities are locked behind DLC ownership.
Leveling and Gear Acquisition
You can still level up your Guardian and acquire weapons and armor in the base game. The Power Level cap for the base game is significantly lower than the current cap, limiting your progress in some activities. You can acquire Legendary and Exotic gear, but the pool of available items is much smaller compared to what’s available with expansions.
Limitations of the Base Game
While the base game offers a decent starting point, there are several significant limitations:
- Limited Endgame: The endgame activities are very limited without DLC. Raids, dungeons, and high-level activities are mostly locked behind expansions.
- Restricted Access to Content: Many activities, quests, and even some planetary locations are inaccessible without the corresponding DLC.
- Lower Power Level Cap: The Power Level cap in the base game prevents you from participating in high-level activities even if they were available.
- Limited Gear Pool: The selection of weapons and armor available in the base game is significantly smaller than the expanded selection offered with DLCs.
- Story Disconnect: Without the DLC storylines, the overall narrative can feel incomplete and disjointed. You’ll miss out on crucial story developments and character arcs.
Is the Base Game Worth Playing?
Whether the base game is worth playing depends on your expectations. If you are looking for a comprehensive Destiny 2 experience with a deep endgame, then the answer is probably no. However, if you are curious about the game and want to try it out before committing to any purchases, the base game can be a worthwhile introduction. It allows you to experience the core gameplay loop, explore the world, and get a feel for the gunplay and character progression.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I reach the current Power Level cap in the base game?
No, you cannot. The Power Level cap in the base game is significantly lower than the current maximum level. This limits your ability to participate in high-level activities and experience the full range of content.
2. What Raids are available in the base game?
There are no Raids accessible in the base version of Destiny 2 without any expansions. Raids are end-game activities that require a team of six players and offer challenging encounters and valuable rewards.
3. What Exotics can I get in the base game?
You can obtain a limited number of Exotic weapons and armor pieces that were available at the launch of Destiny 2. The pool of Exotics is significantly smaller compared to what is available with the DLCs.
4. Can I play all Crucible maps in the base game?
No. You are restricted to playing on the Crucible maps that were available at the launch of Destiny 2. Newer maps are only accessible with the corresponding DLCs.
5. Does the base game include any dungeons?
No, the base game does not include any dungeons. Dungeons are challenging three-player activities that offer unique rewards and storylines, and are tied to specific DLC releases.
6. Can I complete seasonal challenges in the base game?
No, Seasonal content and the ability to participate in Seasonal challenges are restricted to players who own the corresponding Season Pass.
7. What happens after I finish the Red War campaign?
After completing the Red War campaign, you can continue to explore the available planets, complete Strikes and Crucible matches, and grind for gear. However, your progression will be limited by the Power Level cap and the lack of endgame activities.
8. Can I still play the base game if I own DLCs?
Yes, you can still access the content from the base game even if you own DLCs. The DLCs simply add more content on top of the existing base game.
9. Is it worth buying DLCs for Destiny 2?
For many players, the DLCs are absolutely worth buying. They provide a significant amount of additional content, including new campaigns, raids, dungeons, weapons, armor, and activities, greatly extending the lifespan of the game.
10. How do I access DLC content in Destiny 2?
To access DLC content, you need to purchase and install the corresponding expansion. Once installed, the content will become available in the game, allowing you to start new quests, explore new locations, and participate in new activities.
11. What is the best way to experience Destiny 2 as a new player?
The best way to experience Destiny 2 as a new player is to start with the base game to get a feel for the core mechanics and gameplay. If you enjoy the game, consider purchasing the Legacy Collection or the latest expansion to unlock a vast amount of additional content.
12. Does the base game offer any free-to-play content?
Yes, the base game of Destiny 2 is technically free-to-play, although the depth of content available pales in comparison to the purchased expansions.
13. Can I earn Bright Dust in the base game?
Yes, you can earn Bright Dust in the base game by completing certain activities and challenges. Bright Dust can be used to purchase cosmetic items from the Eververse store.
14. Are there any limitations to crafting weapons in the base game?
Crafting is generally tied to specific expansions, so the availability of weapons to craft in the base game will be severely limited or nonexistent.
15. Will my progress in the base game carry over if I buy DLCs later?
Yes, all your progress, including your character level, gear, and acquired items, will carry over if you purchase DLCs later. You can seamlessly continue your adventure and access the new content without losing any progress.