The Unrecoverable Loss: Why Cayde-6 Couldn’t Be Revived
The question of why Cayde-6, the beloved Exo Hunter, couldn’t be revived after his death in Destiny 2: Forsaken has lingered in the minds of Guardians since that fateful moment. The simple answer is two-fold: his Ghost, Sundance, was destroyed, and he sustained a fatal blow to his chest. Ghosts are essential for a Guardian’s resurrection, acting as conduits for the Light and effectively serving as the source of their immortality. Without Sundance, Cayde-6 was mortal, and the physical damage he sustained was irreversible.
The Crucial Role of Ghosts in Guardian Resurrection
Guardians in the Destiny universe are not inherently immortal. Their immortality is granted and maintained by their Ghosts. These small, sentient machines are linked to the Traveler and possess the power to resurrect their chosen Guardian from death, often rebuilding them from what little remains. However, this resurrection is contingent on the Ghost’s continued existence. A Ghost can be permanently killed, and if that happens, the Guardian they are linked to becomes mortal and subject to the same limitations as any other living being.
Sundance, Cayde-6’s Ghost, was ruthlessly destroyed by the Scorn during the prison break that led to Cayde’s demise. This act severed Cayde-6’s connection to the Light and rendered him vulnerable.
The Finality of Physical Wounds
Even with a Ghost, there are limits to what resurrection can repair. While Ghosts can heal grievous injuries and even restore Guardians from complete disintegration, they cannot always overcome every obstacle. The article mentions that Exos have human parts, like a brain. If Cayde was only injured, Sundance may have been able to revive Cayde. However, Cayde was shot through his chest, damaging the technology inside, as well as other essential internal structures. The fatal blow to Cayde-6’s chest, combined with the loss of Sundance, created a situation from which there was no return.
Cayde’s Return in The Final Shape: A Paradox
Despite the finality of his death, Cayde-6 is slated to return in Destiny 2: The Final Shape. This raises significant questions and appears, at first glance, to contradict established lore. However, it’s important to understand that Cayde’s return is not a resurrection in the traditional sense. It is likely that Cayde is not being resurrected as a Lightbearer by a Ghost.
The exact nature of his return remains shrouded in mystery, but possibilities include:
- A manifestation within the Traveler: The Traveler is a powerful entity capable of creating representations and simulations. Cayde-6 could appear as a construct within the Traveler’s inner world, interacting with Guardians without being truly resurrected.
- A memory or echo: The Veil and the Traveler are entities that can tap into memories and potentially bring those memories to life. Cayde-6 could be a memory brought to life.
- A different method: Bungie is known to introduce new lore concepts and challenges. It is possible that they have devised a new method for bringing Cayde back that has not yet been explained.
Whatever the case, it’s crucial to remember that Cayde-6’s original death remains permanent within the established lore. His return is likely a narrative device to explore themes of memory, legacy, and the enduring impact of loss.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Cayde-6
Here are some frequently asked questions about Cayde-6, his death, and the implications for the Destiny universe:
Why was Cayde not resurrected?
As stated previously, Cayde-6 could not be resurrected because his Ghost, Sundance, was destroyed, and he suffered a fatal wound to his chest. Ghosts are crucial for the revivals of Guardians, and without one, a Guardian cannot be brought back.
Could Cayde-6 be revived after Sundance’s destruction?
No, after Sundance’s destruction, Cayde-6 was mortal. Without a Ghost, he was no longer connected to the Light and could not be resurrected.
Will Cayde-6 be revived in The Final Shape?
It is currently unknown whether he will be resurrected in the traditional sense. It’s more likely that he will appear as a construct within the Traveler, a memory or echo, or another form that does not involve being a Lightbearer.
Is Cayde-7 confirmed?
The article clearly states that there will be no Cayde-7, even if Cayde-6 returns in some form. The numbering system indicates how many times an Exo has been rebooted, and Cayde-6’s final death prevents any further reboots.
Who killed Cayde-6?
Uldren Sov, manipulated by Riven, killed Cayde-6. While Riven influenced Uldren’s actions, Uldren ultimately fired the fatal shot.
Is Cayde coming back in Lightfall?
No, Cayde-6 is not returning in Lightfall. His return is currently slated for The Final Shape expansion.
Who is voicing Cayde-6 in The Final Shape?
Nathan Fillion will return as the voice of Cayde-6 in The Final Shape. This is a welcome return for fans who loved his portrayal of the character.
Who killed Uldren Sov?
The game leaves it ambiguous whether the Guardian or Petra Venj killed Uldren Sov. However, Osiris implied that it was the Guardian who pulled the trigger.
Can Exos be revived?
Yes, Exos can be revived, provided they have a Ghost and their Ghost is still alive. Exos, like other Guardians, rely on their Ghost for resurrection.
Who is Cayde’s daughter?
Ana Bray is Cayde’s daughter. This revelation adds a layer of depth to Cayde’s character and his connection to the wider Destiny universe.
Why do Exos have numbers?
The number after an Exo’s name indicates how many times they have been rebooted. Each reboot can result in memory loss or fragmentation. This system provides insight into the Exo’s past and the potential challenges they face.
Is The Final Shape the end of Destiny 2?
No, Destiny 2 is not ending with The Final Shape. Bungie has confirmed that they will continue the story after The Final Shape, exploring the aftermath of the events that unfold.
Is Cayde dead in Destiny lore?
Yes, Cayde-6 is dead in Destiny lore. His death was a significant event that had a lasting impact on the story.
Is Uldren Sov a bad guy?
Uldren Sov is a complex character. While he committed terrible acts, he was also manipulated and influenced by external forces. After his resurrection as Crow, he undergoes a journey of redemption.
What was the thing that ate Uldren?
A giant monster controlled by Riven emerged from the Dreaming City and swallowed Uldren whole before the Guardians freed him, after which he was executed.
The story and world-building of Destiny are deep and engaging and can be used for learning purposes. You can learn more about how games can be used for learning on the Games Learning Society website at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.
This information should provide a comprehensive understanding of why Cayde-6 could not be revived and address many of the frequently asked questions surrounding his death and potential return.