Navigating the Light and Darkness: The Definitive Destiny 2 Expansion Order
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So, you’re ready to dive into the sprawling universe of Destiny 2? Excellent choice, Guardian! But where do you even begin with all the expansions and updates? Fear not, for this guide will illuminate your path through the tangled timelines and epic storylines of Bungie’s space opera.
The Chronological Order of Destiny 2 Expansions
To experience the full narrative arc of Destiny 2, playing the expansions in the order they were released is the best approach. However, be aware that Bungie has implemented a system called the “Content Vault” which has removed some older content from the game. Nevertheless, understanding the original release order is vital for comprehending the ongoing narrative. Here’s the definitive list:
- Red War (Part of the base Destiny 2 game; Vaulted)
- Curse of Osiris (December 2017; Vaulted)
- Warmind (May 2018; Vaulted)
- Forsaken (September 2018; Campaign Vaulted, Endgame Content Partially Available)
- Shadowkeep (October 2019)
- Beyond Light (November 2020)
- The Witch Queen (February 2022)
- Lightfall (February 2023)
- The Final Shape (June 2024)
While the Red War, Curse of Osiris, Warmind, and the campaign portion of Forsaken are no longer directly playable within Destiny 2 due to being vaulted, understanding their place in the lore provides valuable context for the remaining content.
Understanding the Vault and Its Impact
The Destiny Content Vault (DCV) is a system Bungie implemented to manage the game’s size and technical performance. This means that certain locations, activities, and storylines have been removed from the game to make room for new content and improve overall stability. While this can be disappointing for players wanting to experience the entire saga, it’s important to remember that the core narrative continues forward. Thankfully, Bungie has stated they will not be vaulting any more expansions going forward.
Starting Your Destiny 2 Journey Today
Despite the vaulted content, there’s still plenty to experience in Destiny 2. Here’s a suggested order of play for new players focusing on the currently accessible campaigns:
- Begin with the introductory “New Light” questline. This will familiarize you with the game’s mechanics, characters, and world.
- Play Shadowkeep. This expansion delves into the mysteries of the Moon and the return of familiar enemies.
- Continue with Beyond Light. Journey to Europa and wield the power of Stasis, the first Darkness-based subclass.
- Confront the Witch Queen. Unravel the secrets of Savathûn’s Throne World in this critically acclaimed expansion.
- Brave Lightfall. Defend Neptune and its hidden city of Neomuna from the Witness’s forces.
- Prepare for The Final Shape. The culmination of the Light and Darkness saga is upon us!
Destiny 2: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 common questions players ask about Destiny 2 and its expansions, designed to provide more in-depth knowledge about the game:
1. Why was content vaulted in Destiny 2?
Bungie vaulted content to reduce the game’s overall size, improve performance, and allow for more focused development on new content. This was a necessary measure to ensure the long-term viability of Destiny 2.
2. Is Destiny 2 truly free-to-play? What’s included?
Destiny 2 offers a free-to-play experience that includes access to core playlists like Strikes, Crucible, and Gambit. You also get a taste of the story through the “New Light” intro quest and the first mission of each expansion. However, the full narrative experience requires purchasing the expansions.
3. Do I need to buy all the Destiny 2 expansions?
While not strictly necessary, owning the expansions greatly enhances your experience. You’ll gain access to the full story campaigns, new subclasses, powerful weapons and armor, and endgame activities like Raids and Dungeons. Furthermore, some weekly activities may be tied to DLCs.
4. Will Destiny 2 end after The Final Shape?
While The Final Shape concludes the Light and Darkness saga, Bungie plans to continue supporting Destiny 2 with new content in the form of “Episodes” (formerly referred to as “seasons”), which will provide continuing narratives and gameplay experiences.
5. What’s the best Destiny 2 expansion to start with?
For new players, starting with the “New Light” questline is recommended. Then, progressing to Shadowkeep provides a good introduction to the current narrative.
6. How do Seasons fit into the Destiny 2 expansion timeline?
Seasons are shorter, three-month content updates that introduce new storylines, activities, and rewards. They run concurrently with the yearly expansions, expanding upon the overarching narrative.
7. Where can I find summaries of vaulted Destiny 2 content?
Numerous online resources, including the Destiny 2 wiki and various fan-created websites, offer comprehensive summaries of vaulted content. These summaries can help you understand the story elements you missed.
8. What are the different character classes in Destiny 2, and which one should I choose?
Destiny 2 features three classes: Titan, Hunter, and Warlock. Each class has unique abilities and playstyles. Titans are known for their resilience, Hunters for their agility, and Warlocks for their mastery of energy. The best class depends on your preferred playstyle. Try them all!
9. What is the Power level in Destiny 2, and why is it important?
Power level represents your character’s overall strength. It’s determined by the average Power of your equipped gear. A higher Power level allows you to tackle more challenging activities and deal more damage to enemies. The Powerful cap for Destiny 2 is 1800, meaning that between 1750 and 1800, the only way to increase your Power level is to get a reward from activities which grant Powerful or Pinnacle gear.
10. How do I earn new weapons and armor in Destiny 2?
Weapons and armor can be acquired through various means, including completing missions, participating in activities, opening engrams, and purchasing them from vendors.
11. What are Raids and Dungeons in Destiny 2?
Raids and Dungeons are challenging endgame activities designed for teams of players. They offer unique mechanics, puzzles, and boss encounters, rewarding players with exclusive loot.
12. What is Stasis, and how do I get it?
Stasis is a Darkness-based subclass introduced in Beyond Light. You unlock it by completing the Beyond Light campaign and then fulfilling specific quests.
13. How do I find other players to play Destiny 2 with?
The Destiny 2 community is vast and welcoming. You can find fireteams through the in-game fireteam finder, dedicated Discord servers, and online forums.
14. What are Exotic weapons and armor?
Exotic weapons and armor are powerful and unique items with special perks that cannot be found on other gear. They are highly sought after and often require specific quests or activities to acquire.
15. Where can I learn more about the Destiny 2 lore?
The Destiny 2 lore is incredibly deep and complex. You can delve into it through the game’s lore tabs, the Destiny Grimoire (available online), and numerous lore-focused YouTube channels and websites. Many gaming communities such as the Games Learning Society have discussions. You can connect with the GamesLearningSociety.org community for support and assistance with your Destiny 2 journey.
Embark on Your Destiny
Destiny 2 is a constantly evolving game with a rich and rewarding experience for those willing to invest the time. By understanding the order of the expansions, the impact of the Content Vault, and the resources available, you’ll be well-equipped to forge your own legend in the stars. Now, Guardian, go forth and confront the darkness, and may your light never fade!