What Light Level Do You Need for Grandmaster Nightfalls in Destiny 2?

The question of the minimum light level required for Grandmaster (GM) Nightfalls in Destiny 2 is a crucial one for players looking to tackle the game’s most challenging PvE content. The simple answer is that you should aim for at least 1815 Power Level to be at maximum effectiveness for a Grandmaster Nightfall. While the activity has a minimum entry requirement, being at the recommended level is paramount for success.

Understanding the Power Level Dynamics

Minimum Entry Requirement vs. Recommended Power

As of recent updates, the base requirement to even launch a Grandmaster Nightfall is a Power Level of 1580. This marked a significant change, making the activity more accessible to a broader range of players. However, just because you can enter at 1580 doesn’t mean you should. The enemies in Grandmaster Nightfalls are set to a fixed level, which is 25 levels above your current Power Level, up to a maximum cap. Therefore, even if you’re well above the base entry requirement, the game will still scale the difficulty, but there is a ceiling to that scale.

The 25 Level Delta and Power Level Cap

Grandmaster Nightfalls are designed to be supremely difficult. The enemies are scaled to be 25 Power Levels above yours. Importantly, that difficulty caps at a point. This means that if you are 1815 Power Level, you are at maximum effectiveness and will not be more under-leveled by scaling as someone who is 1700. The old system had you at a more significant disadvantage. So, the maximum enemy Power Level will always be 1840, if you’re at the recommend 1815, ensuring that you are dealing maximum damage and taking maximum damage without further scaling based on how much lower you are.

Significance of the 1815 Power Level

Reaching 1815 Power is significant because it allows you to be at the maximum effectiveness possible in Grandmaster Nightfalls. Once you hit 1815 Power Level, the difference between your Power and the enemy Power is minimized. At this point, the difference will be 25 light levels and this is as good as it gets for a power level advantage. This does not mean the activity is easy. It is still very difficult and requires skill, strategy, and a well-coordinated fireteam.

Importance of Artifact Power

It’s important to note that both your base power level and the power bonus from your seasonal Artifact are factored into your overall power. The artifact bonus power increases as you gain XP through normal gameplay. It is not uncommon for players to reach their Artifact bonus power cap, which is usually around +20 in many seasons, even while under the power cap in their gear level.

Impact of Being Under-Leveled

Being significantly under-leveled in a Grandmaster Nightfall is a recipe for disaster. You will do drastically reduced damage to enemies and they will easily kill you, even with the slightest mistake or mistimed engagement. This will quickly lead to a frustrating experience. It’s essential to level up your gear and artifact to reach the optimal level.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Grandmaster Nightfalls

1. What is the minimum Power Level to enter a Grandmaster Nightfall?

The minimum Power Level to enter a Grandmaster Nightfall is 1580. However, this level is significantly under the recommended level to make any real progress.

2. What is the ideal Power Level for Grandmaster Nightfalls?

The ideal Power Level for Grandmaster Nightfalls is 1815. At this level, you will be at maximum effectiveness, with enemies being capped at 25 levels above your power.

3. How does Power Level scaling work in Grandmaster Nightfalls?

Enemies are scaled to be 25 Power Levels above your current level. Once you reach 1815, you will not be under-leveled by the game’s scaling.

4. Is it necessary to be at the maximum effectiveness to complete a Grandmaster Nightfall?

While it is possible to complete a Grandmaster Nightfall at a lower Power Level, being at 1815 significantly increases your survivability and damage output, making it much more achievable.

5. Does my Seasonal Artifact Power count towards the minimum requirement for Grandmaster Nightfalls?

Yes, your Seasonal Artifact Power is factored into your overall Power Level and counts toward the minimum entry requirement and effective level.

6. How do I effectively increase my Power Level in Destiny 2?

You can increase your Power Level through various methods, including completing Pinnacle and Powerful gear activities, leveling up your Seasonal Artifact, and obtaining high-stat armor and weapons.

7. What are the hardest Grandmaster Nightfalls in Destiny 2?

Some of the hardest Grandmaster Nightfalls include The Corrupted, Proving Grounds, The Lightblade, The Glassway, and The Scarlet Keep.

8. What are the easiest Grandmaster Nightfalls in Destiny 2?

Typically, The Insight Terminus is considered one of the easiest Grandmaster Nightfalls, along with Warden of Nothing and Birthplace of the Vile.

9. Can I choose the Grandmaster Nightfall I want to play?

Yes, you can now choose the Grandmaster Nightfall using the Catchup Node, provided you have not completed it that season. This allows you to target specific weapons you need.

10. What are the best weapons for Grandmaster Nightfalls?

Some of the best weapons for Grandmaster Nightfalls include Gjallarhorn, Ager’s Scepter, Divinity, Wish-Ender, Leviathan’s Breath, Thunderlord, Le Monarque, and Arbalest.

11. How can I improve my survivability in Grandmaster Nightfalls?

Improve your survivability by using Minor Spec mods, paying attention to the Elemental Burn, playing slowly and methodically, understanding Champion placement, and focusing on objectives.

12. What are the rewards for completing Grandmaster Nightfalls?

Completing Grandmaster Nightfalls rewards you with Adept weapons, high-stat armor, and enhancement materials.

13. Can I obtain Nightfall-specific weapons from any difficulty?

Yes, you can obtain Nightfall-specific weapons from any difficulty, but Adept versions are exclusive to Grandmaster Nightfalls.

14. Do my loadouts affect my performance in Grandmaster Nightfalls?

Absolutely, having a well-thought-out loadout with synergy and the right weapons is critical for success in Grandmaster Nightfalls.

15. Is a fireteam required for Grandmaster Nightfalls?

Yes, Grandmaster Nightfalls require a pre-made fireteam of three players; there is no matchmaking for this activity. Communication and coordination with your fireteam are essential.

Conclusion

In summary, while the minimum entry requirement for Grandmaster Nightfalls is 1580 Power, it is highly recommended to reach at least 1815 Power to maximize your effectiveness. Understanding the mechanics of Power Level scaling, choosing the right weapons, and coordinating well with your fireteam is key to conquering the most challenging content that Destiny 2 has to offer.