Destiny 2, the action RPG from developer and publisher Bungie, has been a staple in the gaming community for over 10 years across console and PC platforms. However, a recent Steam review from ArkaneArdvark78, who has spent an unprecedented 10,098.5 hours in the game, sheds light on the deep-seated frustrations within the player base, culminating in a scathing negative review.
Quick Facts — Destiny 2
| Developer | Bungie |
|---|---|
| Platform(s) | Console, PC |
| Release Date | over 10 years ago |
| Genre | Action RPG |
The review, posted in September, criticizes the Edge of Fate expansion, specifically highlighting the introduction of new gear tiers, character leveling, and weapon tiers, which render previously acquired armor and weapons obsolete. ArkaneArdvark78 expresses disdain for the tedious grinding required to achieve the new tier 5 gear, necessary for maximizing builds, and criticizes "The Portal" for its mind-numbing, repetitive gameplay. Perhaps most telling, however, is the continued playtime of 157.8 hours post-review, a phenomenon many gamers can relate to, where the investment of time and the pull of community ties make it hard to fully walk away, even in dissatisfaction.
The Core of the Criticism
At the heart of ArkaneArdvark78's review is the feeling of disregard from Bungie towards its player base. As stated,
"Bungie is so far removed from actually listening or understanding the player base it should be a major red flag."
This sentiment is echoed in the unanimous agreement among the community that the Portal overhaul was a disaster, introducing a grind that undermines the game's enjoyment. The comparison to the relatively better-received The Witch Queen expansion underscores how far the game has deviated from its more engaging periods.
The criticisms are not just about the newest additions but reflect a broader disillusionment. The rendering of previous content useless, the tedious nature of The Portal, and the overall direction of the game post-Edge of Fate expansion have led to a significant loss of interest, not just for ArkaneArdvark78, but apparently for many, as evidenced by Destiny 2 being sunset and the unclear status of Destiny 3.
Community and Industry Implications
The review and its aftermath, including the additional 157.8 hours played, speak to the complex relationship between gamers and their long-term investments. It highlights the challenge developers face in balancing innovation with preserving the core aspects that attract and retain players. Bungie's apparent disconnect from its community, as highlighted by ArkaneArdvark78 and echoed by others, serves as a cautionary tale for game developers navigating the delicate task of updating live-service games.
The situation with Destiny 2, coupled with the absence of Destiny 3 and the sunsetting of its predecessor, raises questions about Bungie's strategy and the future of the franchise. The impact on the community extends beyond individual dissatisfaction, affecting the friendships and gaming groups formed around the game, now seeking new outlets.
A Reflection of Deeper Issues
ArcaneArdvark78's actions—leaving a negative review only to continue playing—might seem contradictory but reflect the deeper psychological investment in long-term gaming experiences. This phenomenon, where players continue to invest time despite dissatisfaction, is a complex mix of hope for change, social ties, and the sunk cost fallacy. For Destiny 2, it signifies a failure to address core community concerns, leading to a decline that the Edge of Fate expansion accelerated rather than mitigated.
As the gaming landscape evolves, Destiny 2's story serves as a reminder of the importance of developer-community dialogue and the delicate balance required in live-service game development. With Destiny 2 being sunset and the future of the series uncertain, the community waits with bated breath, hoping for a resurgence or a new beginning that rekindles the passion that once drove players like ArcaneArdvark78 to dedicate thousands of hours.
