Editor 
In an unexpected, yet highly anticipated, developer livestream, Bungie peeled back the layers on the next chapter in their flagship game: Destiny 2. Catching the community’s imagination, Episode Revenant promises more than just a continuation—it aims to revolutionize the gameplay experience, reinvigorate the narrative pacing, and respond to player feedback in meaningful ways.
What’s New, Guardians?
Release Date: Mark Your Calendars
Clear your schedules for October 8th, 2024. That’s when Episode Revenant blasts off, bringing with it an assortment of updates and changes that have been buzzed about since their announcement. Given the meticulous nature of Bungie’s updates, anticipation—and expectations—are sky-high.
Onslaught Mode: Reinvented
Among the highlights, the revamped Onslaught mode stands out. This isn’t just a tweak here and there—it’s a full-fledged overhaul based on player input and feedback. Three new maps feature prominently, each with a different enemy faction. Of particular interest is the Dark Cabal, led by the indomitable Fikrul. Each map offers escalating challenges, with 10-wave and 50-wave versions tailored for varying levels of play, including a particularly brutal expert mode where power matters.
One of the new Onslaught maps introduces an intriguing setting: Widow’s Court. This locale seems perfectly crafted to complement the unforgiving chaos of wave-based combat, with its gothic architecture and haunting atmosphere.
Defense Mechanisms: A Nod to the Past with a Glimpse of the Future
Old veterans of Destiny will remember the Shrapnel turret from Destiny 1. Well, it’s making a return, but not without its upgrades. Now equipped to fire Scorch rounds, this turret is set to become a cornerstone of defense strategy. Complementing it is a new Air Strike mechanism—an area-targeting, beam-attack marvel that promises to alter how Guardians approach defensive setups.
Narrative Pacing: Speeding Up the Lore
One of the more subtle, yet equally significant revelations is the adjustment in narrative pacing. Bungie is doubling down on impactful storytelling, with plans for two major events each year. This new rhythm, part of the broader ‘Frontiers’ preview, suggests a more engaging and dynamic storyline. It’s a smart move, aiming to keep the community invested not just in the action, but in the ever-evolving lore of the Destiny universe.
Future Activities: Beyond Act 1
Episode Revenant isn’t stopping with just an update to Onslaught. Act 1 will also introduce a new Dungeon, rich with its own secrets and challenges. Act 2 is still cloaked in mystery, but a new activity is promised—one that will continue to push the boundaries of what players expect from Destiny 2.
Community Feedback: The Heartbeat of Improvements
The true ace up Bungie’s sleeve is their willingness to listen to their community. Much of what’s coming in Episode Revenant can be traced back to player feedback. This partnership with the player base can lead to immensely popular activities—like Onslaught—being revisited and incorporated as permanent fixtures or selectable playlists.
Personal Take: A Long-Time Guardian’s Perspective
As a long-time Guardian, I can’t help but feel nostalgic and optimistic. The introduction of familiar elements like the Shrapnel turret, combined with innovative mechanics like the new Air Strike, feels like coming home to something both old and new. The narrative changes, along with Bungie’s unwavering commitment to player feedback, signal a promising future—not just for Episode Revenant, but for the entire Destiny 2 experience.
It’s this blend of reverence for the past and bold steps into the future that makes Destiny 2 more than just a game. It’s a dynamic, living universe—one that grows alongside its community.
FAQ: Destiny 2 Episode Revenant
Q1: When is Episode Revenant releasing?
- Episode Revenant is set to launch on October 8th, 2024.
Q2: What are the new features in Onslaught mode?
- The revamped Onslaught mode features three new maps, different enemy factions, and includes 10-wave, 50-wave, and an expert version of the 50-wave mode. The action takes place on the map set in Widow’s Court.
Q3: What new defense mechanisms are being introduced?
- The Shrapnel turret from Destiny 1 is returning, now capable of using Scorch rounds. Additionally, the new Air Strike defense mechanism will mark a target area for a devastating beam attack.
Q4: How is the narrative pacing changing in Episode Revenant?
- The narrative pacing will accelerate with two major events planned each year, as part of the Frontiers preview. This indicates a more engaging and dynamic storyline.
Q5: What activities will Act 1 and Act 2 include?
- Act 1 includes the revamped Onslaught mode and a Dungeon. Act 2 will introduce an unnamed new activity, continuing the pattern of previous Acts.
Q6: How is community feedback being used in the updates?
- Bungie has incorporated player feedback into the updates. Successful activities might become part of the permanent rotation or selectable playlists in the future.
Reading through these changes, there’s an undercurrent of something more profound and lasting. Bungie’s approach feels like a dialogue—a two-way conversation that’s not just about updates and patches, but about building a universe that is as much ours as it is theirs. For now, all eyes are on October 8th, when Destiny 2 once again promises to redefine the boundaries of gaming. Happy hunting, Guardians!
