This week, Destiny 2 received a new patch that was expected to bring some welcome changes, including a buff to the drop rate of Exotic class items. However, instead of increasing the chances of acquiring these coveted items, the patch seems to have had the opposite effect, much to the frustration of the community.

Patch Promised Increased Drop Rates, But Reality Disappoints

The patch notes indicated that Exotic class items would have a higher drop rate, especially from chests found in the Overthrow activity. Bungie assured players that higher-tiered chests would significantly boost the chances of obtaining these powerful items. However, player feedback has painted a different picture.

Previously, after completing the Dual Destiny Exotic mission, players could expect an Exotic class item to drop after around three Overthrow runs. These items are highly sought after for their potential to greatly enhance a character’s build, though their perks are randomized, making the grind for the perfect roll a common practice.

Post-patch, many players report needing to complete at least five Overthrow runs before seeing any Exotic class items, a noticeable decrease in drop rate. Bungie has since acknowledged that an issue is indeed affecting the drop rates, confirming that they have “identified an issue” impacting these drops.

A Major Setback for the Destiny 2 Community

This development is a significant disappointment for the Destiny 2 community, especially given the timing. Many players had been farming for these Exotic items as part of their post-campaign activities following the release of The Final Shape. The unexpected reduction in drop rates adds to the challenges players face, making the grind even more daunting.

The timing of this issue is particularly troubling, coming on the heels of a challenging period for Bungie. The studio recently announced mass layoffs, affecting 17% of its workforce, including senior executives Luke Smith and Mark Noseworthy, who were involved in a now-canceled Destiny spin-off titled Project Payback.

In the wake of these layoffs, around 155 Bungie employees are set to transition to Sony Interactive Entertainment, while another group is forming a new studio under Sony’s umbrella. Despite these internal challenges, Bungie is also working on Marathon, a reboot of a ’90s IP, with plans to release it in 2025.

Final Thoughts

The unintended reduction in Exotic class-item drop rates is a blow to the Destiny 2 player base, who were eagerly anticipating a more rewarding experience with the latest patch. While Bungie has acknowledged the issue, the situation adds to the growing concerns within the community, already shaken by recent developments at the studio. Players now await further updates and fixes to restore the balance in their pursuit of powerful gear.

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