The Marathon Raid: Unpacking Destiny 2’s Longest World First Race
The title for the longest raid race in Destiny 2 belongs to Last Wish, released with the Forsaken expansion in September 2018. Clan Redeem etched their names into Destiny history by conquering Riven of a Thousand Voices after an astounding 18 hours and 48 minutes of relentless effort. This monumental feat not only tested their skill but also their endurance, setting a new benchmark for World First raid completions that stands to this day.
The Last Wish: A Test of Endurance and Skill
Last Wish was no ordinary raid. It was a sprawling, intricate challenge nestled within the Dreaming City, brimming with complex mechanics and a final boss encounter that required precise execution and flawless communication. The sheer scope of the raid, coupled with the novelty of its challenges, contributed significantly to the extended completion time.
The race for World First is a crucible, forging legends in the fires of competition. Top-tier Destiny clans around the globe assemble their best teams, dedicating countless hours to preparation, theory-crafting, and practicing strategies. When a new raid launches, these teams dive in headfirst, fueled by adrenaline and the desire to be the first to conquer its secrets.
Clan Redeem’s victory in Last Wish wasn’t just about being skilled; it was about persistence. Eighteen hours is a grueling length of time to maintain focus, coordinate strategies, and troubleshoot unforeseen obstacles. The mental and physical stamina required is immense, separating the dedicated from the casual.
Adding to the challenge was the fact that Last Wish included 6 encounters, each demanding unique strategies and coordinated teamwork. Other raids may have encounters that are tougher, but Last Wish took an extremely long time to complete due to the complexity of the raid and encounters combined with the fact that Destiny 2 players were not as skilled in 2018 as they are now.
The Legacy of Last Wish
The Last Wish World First race is more than just a record in the history books; it represents a pivotal moment in Destiny 2. It demonstrated the game’s capacity for creating challenging, rewarding content that could push even the most dedicated players to their limits. It cemented Last Wish as one of the franchise’s most beloved and challenging raids. Also, it highlighted the growth that Destiny 2 has made as a franchise and a game.
Even today, Last Wish remains a popular raid, enjoyed by veterans and newcomers alike. Its breathtaking scenery, memorable encounters, and unique loot continue to draw players into the heart of the Dreaming City. For those who seek a true test of their raiding prowess, Last Wish remains a worthwhile challenge, a testament to the skill and determination required to conquer its mysteries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What made Last Wish so difficult compared to other raids?
Last Wish’s difficulty stemmed from a combination of factors: its length (6 encounters), its intricate mechanics, the complexity of the Riven boss fight, and the relatively limited power level of players at the time of its release. The need for perfect communication and execution across all encounters was paramount.
Who was Clan Redeem, and what happened to them?
Clan Redeem was one of the most dominant raiding clans in Destiny history. They secured multiple World First completions, including Last Wish. However, the clan eventually disbanded as members pursued different interests or moved on to other games.
Was there any controversy surrounding the Last Wish World First race?
Yes, a minor controversy arose due to a speedrunning contest shortly after the World First completion. However, this didn’t overshadow Redeem’s initial accomplishment, which remains a significant achievement.
How does the length of the Last Wish race compare to other Destiny raid races?
The 18 hours and 48 minutes for Last Wish is significantly longer than most other Destiny raid races. Most raids are completed within a few hours of launch, making Last Wish an outlier in terms of completion time.
What is the fastest completion time for Last Wish now?
With years of experience and optimized strategies, Last Wish can now be completed much faster. Speedrun teams can clear the raid in under an hour, showcasing the vast difference between a fresh blind run and a highly optimized one. The fastest time is now approximately 21 minutes.
What loot can players obtain from Last Wish?
Last Wish offers a variety of powerful and unique loot, including the 1,000 Voices exotic fusion rifle, curated weapon rolls, and armor with high stat distributions. The raid also features cosmetic items like shaders and emblems.
Is Last Wish still relevant in the current Destiny 2 meta?
Yes, Last Wish remains relevant due to its unique loot and challenging gameplay. While the gear may not always be meta-defining, the experience of completing the raid is rewarding in itself.
What is the Dreaming City, and how is it connected to Last Wish?
The Dreaming City is a location introduced with the Forsaken expansion. It’s a mystical, ever-shifting city influenced by the Ahamkara (wish dragons). Last Wish is set within the Dreaming City, and its events have significant consequences for the city’s narrative and state.
Who is Riven of a Thousand Voices?
Riven is the final boss of Last Wish, an Ahamkara (wish dragon) corrupted by the Taken. She is a powerful and enigmatic entity whose defeat has lasting implications for the Dreaming City.
Can Last Wish be completed solo?
While extremely difficult, Last Wish has been soloed by exceptionally skilled players. However, it requires specific builds, strategies, and a deep understanding of the raid mechanics.
What is an Ahamkara?
Ahamkara, also known as wish dragons, are powerful, ancient beings in the Destiny universe. They possess the ability to grant wishes, but their wishes often come with unforeseen consequences. They were thought to be extinct.
How does the Last Wish raid contribute to the overall Destiny 2 story?
Last Wish plays a crucial role in the Destiny 2 story, specifically the narrative of the Dreaming City. The events of the raid trigger a three-week curse cycle that affects the Dreaming City’s environment and story progression.
What skills are essential for completing raids in Destiny 2?
Essential skills for raiding in Destiny 2 include communication, teamwork, coordination, problem-solving, and adaptability. Players must be able to work together effectively, follow instructions, and adjust their strategies on the fly.
What is the role of the Games Learning Society in understanding games like Destiny 2?
The Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org explores the educational and social impact of games like Destiny 2. By studying how players learn, collaborate, and engage within these virtual worlds, the Games Learning Society aims to unlock the potential of games for education, training, and social change. Games can provide a great deal of useful skills for the workplace and general life.
What is the most important advice for new players attempting the Last Wish raid?
For new players attempting Last Wish, the most important advice is to find a patient and experienced team willing to teach the mechanics. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, and focus on learning your role within each encounter. Also, research specific guides to understand the raid better and be prepared to wipe and retry many times.