Summary
Factions were one of the most exciting things about the originalDestiny, bringing the community together in a way that almost no other activity could. By pledging allegiance to a particular faction inDestiny— Future War Cult, New Monarchy, or Dead Orbit — players could participate in activities to increase their rank with that faction and then reap unique rewards as a result. Each faction gave players access to powerful rewards along the track to max out their rank, eventually resulting in a uniqueExotic class itemthey could wear to show off their faction pride. However, this is largely where this story ends, asDestiny 2attempted to implement a faction system but failed to execute it properly.
Destiny 2reintroduced factions in its first year with week-long Faction Rallies, which saw players once again pledging allegiance to either Future War Cult, New Monarchy, or Dead Orbit and then earning a major discount on a powerful weapon. Unfortunately, since each faction only offered one weapon as a reward, players would simply find out which weapon was best and pledge to the faction that offered it, thereby defeating the purpose.Destiny 2attempted to improve factions during the Warmind DLC with better rewards, but the entire system was eventually removed from the game due to a lack of engagement from the community. Now, several years later, there might be reason enough for factions to return toDestiny 2.
It’s Time for Destiny 2 to Bring Back Factions
Destiny 2 Needs Regular Content Loops Like Factions Now More Than Ever
Destiny 2is hardly ever in need of more content, as it certainly has enough to keep players busy for months on end. However, the goal should never be to keep players busy but to have a content loop that is rewarding enough to keep players coming back. In its current state, there is more than enough content to keep casual players coming back for extended periods, butDestiny 2’s hardcore community arguably runs that feeling of reward dry fairly quickly and is then in need of something new. Now, the recent announcement thatDestiny 2’s episodic acts will no longer be time-gatedis a double-edged sword, as it allows players to play at their own pace but simultaneously takes even more incentive away for players to return to the game at regular intervals.
Given the current state ofDestiny 2’s regular content loops, it might need something like Faction Rallies again to keep players invested. Sure, it has activities like Iron Banner and Trials of Osiris that make regular appearances, but these only appeal to a certain portion of theDestiny 2community. Additionally,Desitny 2’s limited-time seasonal events, like the Dawning and the Solstice of Heroes, have all but worn out their welcome. Factions, on the other hand, might feel fresh enough to warrant extended playtime from players, especially if they are executed well.
Destiny 2 Now Has a Chance to Reimagine Factions in The Final Shape
To preventDestiny 2’s faction system from feeling too antiquated or like nothing more than recycled content, they could be reimagined in The Final Shape with the Guardians' new allies. Each ofDestiny’s former factions either fled the Tower or was killed off, which gives credence to new factions forming in their stead. As such, perhaps some friendly Eliksni or Cabal could represent new factions to be allied with, along with their respective weapons and armor.Commander Zavalacould even represent the Guardians as a faction to complete the triangle for the ultimate rivalry.
TheDestiny 2community has reined in their expectations for factions ever returning to the game, especially now with events likeGuardian Gamesseemingly replacing them. That being said, Bungie has consistently proven that if the cry for a particular feature is loud enough, it will listen and respond accordingly.
Destiny 2
WHERE TO PLAY
Dive into the world of Destiny 2 to explore the mysteries of the solar system and experience responsive first-person shooter combat. Unlock powerful elemental abilities and collect unique gear to customize your Guardian’s look and playstyle. Enjoy Destiny 2’s cinematic story, challenging co-op missions, and a variety of PvP modes alone or with friends. Download for free today and write your legend in the stars.An Immersive StoryYou are a Guardian, defender of the Last City of humanity in a solar system under siege by infamous villains. Look to the stars and stand against the darkness. Your legend begins now.Guardian ClassesChoose from the armored Titan, mystic Warlock, or swift Hunter.
