The Future of ‘Destiny 2’

Beyond Lightfall & Final Shape

Smart Hopewell
Psalm Lab | Blog

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Recently, Paul Tassi wrote an article asking “How Does Destiny 2 End”? —
In the article, he goes on to discuss two important points for the future of Destiny and where it’s headed. Those points are:

  1. The Game Engine
  2. The Narrative

Before I talk about the Engine, let's talk about Destiny 2’s story and lore. The truth is, the narrative for what comes after “The Final Shape” has already been set up. World’s, forces, potential antagonist’s with great power, and a vast living universe.

Though there is some debate, narratively, I would say the “Light and Darkness” saga began in Destiny 1 as far back as the collapse. This was a global level event which brought humanity to the brink of extinction, save for the efforts of The Traveler (a great machine-like orb the size of a small moon) and the Warmind Rasputin (a sentient AI).

So what is next?

With the focus being on Nezarec (an ancient disciple of the Witness who was entombed within his Pyramid ship). In Season of Plunder, the current season of Destiny 2. The groundwork is already being laid for next season, Lightfall, and The Final Shape.

Here are the major forces and stories to keep tabs on:

  • Relics of Nezarec (Season of Plunder)
  • Possible Resurrection of Nezarec (Season of Plunder)
  • Xivu Arath (Future season?)
  • The Exo Stranger (Elsie Bray) (Lightfall)
  • The Nine (Lightfall)
  • Exodus Colony Ships (Lightfall)
  • State of Osiris (Season of Plunder)
  • The Vex (Lightfall)

The road ahead for Bungie and Destiny 2 is a long one. They said so themselves in a TWAB, (This Week At Bungie) post last year. With good reason! The list I made above, outlines some of the major plot points that are picking up steam — In-game and in lore pages themselves. Hopefully tying up loose-ends in the Sol System.

I’d like to pick up on the story beat of the Exodus Colony Ships. Firstly, we already know and it was confirmed by Bungie’s Catarina Macedo, who goes into detail about an Exodus ship that escaped during the collapse.

Why is Neptune so important? It sits gently in a quadrant of space called the Jovian System, far beyond the outer edge of the Sol System (where Humanity resides) a territory ruled by a group of enigmatic entities known as The Nine.

Neptune atmosphere — Image source: Bungie

If you are a Destiny 2 lore enthusiast, then even mentioning Jovians and The Nine is going to spark a lot of questions. If they are in fact within the Jovians, it certainly makes me wonder how this will tie into the fight with Emperor Calus, The Witness, and the future of Neomuna and it’s people?

It’s hard to say, but exciting to think about. Destiny isn’t just a game with pretty images, and lights, it’s a world that has been built for a number of years. Constantly making room for wild ideas or connecting important pieces of story together that propels us into the future.

The Engine

Over the last year and half, Bungie’s tech team have made it clear how well their new engine will perform. Allowing for quicker development, and implementation of narrative game design. You can read all about it in their blog post 100% Chance of Snow.

While some are sceptical at what success this may bring. Bungie have proven, time and time again, that they have what it takes to accomplish the impossible. Destiny 2 have been running on a partly older engine for 8 solid years!

In my opinion, the visual prowess and design easily stack up next to other triple A game. Although Bungie as a studio is a business, it’s clear to see that it is powered by some of the most incredible creators. Destiny continues to outlive and draw in the attention of new and returning players. Even celebrities like Chloë Grace Moretz

Tweet from Chloë Grace Moretz

I often say this; Destiny isn’t just a game. It’s a journey, a world, and a place to call home. Sometimes it’s immediate, or after sometime. But eventually you will meet some of the kindest, and most generous players within the Destiny community, that make this game worth playing.

So! I am hopeful, that the future of Destiny 2 is a bright one, with another 10 years on its belt. And within that time it is possible to transition into a newer engine or a brand-new chapter. But whatever the case, I am excited to see what happens next!

If you enjoyed reading this, follow me on YouTube, Twitter, And Medium. To stay up to date on all things Destiny.

Until next time, remember! That you can do all things 🙌🏾‍

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