Decoding the Cost of Destiny 2: The Witch Queen – Unearthing the Original Price
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The original Witch Queen Standard Edition, when it was released, carried a price tag of $60. However, a pre-order of the standard edition or a digital copy of the Destiny 2: The Witch Queen Standard Edition was available for $39.99 on PlayStation and other platforms. Now, let’s delve deeper into the pricing structure, editions, and overall value proposition of this critically acclaimed Destiny 2 expansion.
Understanding the Different Editions and Their Pricing
Destiny 2 expansions often come in multiple editions, each offering different content and, consequently, different price points. Witch Queen was no exception. Understanding these variations is key to determining what you were (or are) actually paying for.
Standard Edition: The Core Experience
As mentioned, the Standard Edition of Witch Queen was priced at $60 at launch, but a digital copy was available for $39.99. This version grants access to the core campaign, the new raid (“Vow of the Disciple”), exotic gear, weapon crafting, the new Glaive weapon archetype, and new six-player activities. Essentially, it provides the fundamental Witch Queen experience. Crucially, this edition doesn’t include the seasonal content that released throughout Year 5 of Destiny 2.
Deluxe Edition: A Year of Content
The Deluxe Edition was priced at $80 and included everything in the Standard Edition, plus significant additional content. Most notably, it granted access to all four Season Passes released during Year 5. These seasons added new storylines, activities, gear, and rewards, substantially expanding the Witch Queen experience. The Deluxe Edition also included unique items like an Exotic SMG (Osteo Striga), a Throne World Exotic Sparrow, and access to two new endgame dungeons. For players committed to Destiny 2, the Deluxe Edition offered considerable value by providing a continuous stream of content throughout the year.
The 30th Anniversary Bundle: Complete Immersion
The Deluxe Edition 30th Anniversary Bundle offered the most comprehensive experience. It bundled the Deluxe Edition of Witch Queen with the 30th Anniversary Pack, celebrating Bungie’s history. This pack introduced the Grasp of Avarice dungeon, the Gjallarhorn Exotic Rocket Launcher (and its quest), and a host of cosmetic items inspired by Bungie’s past games. This was the premium option for players seeking to fully immerse themselves in the Destiny 2 universe.
Was Witch Queen Worth the Price?
Whether or not Witch Queen was “worth it” is subjective and depends entirely on your engagement with Destiny 2. However, critical reception and player feedback overwhelmingly point to Witch Queen being one of the best Destiny 2 expansions to date.
The Campaign’s Impact
Many consider the Witch Queen campaign to be a standout achievement, praised for its compelling story, engaging mission design, and challenging Legendary difficulty mode. The narrative depth and the quality of the missions elevated the campaign above previous Destiny 2 expansions.
Endgame Content and Longevity
Beyond the campaign, Witch Queen delivered significant endgame content with the “Vow of the Disciple” raid, which is known as one of the best Destiny raids. The inclusion of dungeons, particularly in the Deluxe Edition, further extended the game’s longevity and provided challenging activities for experienced players.
Where Can You Buy Witch Queen Now?
While the original retail price is a historical point, you can still purchase Witch Queen. Availability and pricing will vary depending on your platform (PlayStation, Xbox, PC) and retailer. Digital storefronts like the PlayStation Store, Microsoft Store, and Steam are your most reliable options. Keep an eye out for sales, as Destiny 2 expansions frequently go on discount. Even though new content has arrived, the original Witch Queen campaign and the Vow of the Disciple raid remain compelling experiences.
The Evolving Landscape of Destiny 2
It’s also worth noting that Destiny 2’s content model has evolved. Bungie has stated that major DLC campaigns will remain accessible, addressing player concerns about content being removed. While seasonal content associated with Witch Queen’s Year 5 has been removed, the core expansion content remains available. Destiny 2 is not ending and will continue to receive updates and expansions that will explore new stories surrounding the other factions.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Witch Queen
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to provide further clarity on Destiny 2: The Witch Queen.
1. Is Witch Queen free for everyone?
No, Witch Queen is not permanently free for everyone. It has been made free for limited-time periods, such as weekends, but typically requires purchase. There are times when it is available to play for free on PS4 or other platforms for a limited time.
2. Can I buy just Witch Queen?
Yes, you can buy Witch Queen on its own. This will give you access to the main campaign, raid, and associated content.
3. How many gigs is Witch Queen?
The download size varies by platform, but typically ranges from 18 GB to 35 GB. However, the overall Destiny 2 installation size is much larger, requiring over 105 GB of storage.
4. Is Witch Queen difficult?
The Legendary campaign mode is known for its difficulty. Even the normal campaign can present a challenge for new players.
5. Can I still play Witch Queen campaign after Lightfall?
Yes, the Witch Queen campaign (both normal and legendary) is still available after the release of the Lightfall expansion. Bungie has confirmed that major DLC campaigns will no longer be removed.
6. How will Destiny 2 end?
Destiny 2 is not ending with The Final Shape expansion. Bungie has confirmed that the game will continue with new storylines and content.
7. What is the max level in Destiny Witch Queen?
After reaching a certain power level, only Pinnacle rewards will raise your level until you hit the hard cap. At the time of Witch Queen, that hard cap was 1560.
8. Which Witch Queen exotic is best?
Exotics like the Osteo Striga SMG and the Edge of Intent Glaive are frequently cited as top-tier Witch Queen exotics. The best choice depends on your play style and class.
9. Should I buy Witch Queen as a new player?
Witch Queen is a great entry point for new players, especially given the quality of its campaign. However, starting with the base game (which is free-to-play) to get a feel for Destiny 2 is recommended.
10. What part of Witch Queen is free?
The base game of Destiny 2 is free to play and the Witch Queen Standard Edition will unlock on your installed game if purchased.
11. Is Witch Queen going away?
While seasonal content from The Witch Queen year has been removed, the main campaign and raid remain accessible. Bungie has clarified that major DLC campaigns will no longer be vaulted.
12. How big was The Witch Queen download?
The download size varied by platform. Steam was around 21 GB, Xbox was around 35 GB, and PlayStation was around 18 GB.
13. Why buy Witch Queen Deluxe?
The Deluxe Edition includes access to the four seasons of content released after The Witch Queen, providing a year-long stream of new weapons, armor, activities, and events.
14. Did Witch Queen become free?
Witch Queen has been made free to play for limited-time periods. This offers a good opportunity to try the expansion before committing to a purchase.
15. How many people purchased Witch Queen?
Prior to release, Bungie reported that The Witch Queen had over 1 million pre-orders.
In conclusion, while the original $60 price tag of Witch Queen is a historical marker, the expansion’s value and content continue to resonate with Destiny 2 players. Whether you’re a returning Guardian or a new Light, the Witch Queen offers a compelling and worthwhile experience within the ever-evolving Destiny universe.