Destiny: Rising marks the first spin-off installment in the Destiny series. Developed by NetEase, it is a character-driven gacha mobile game that operates within its own narrative timeline, distinct from Destiny 2.
Though the gameplay diverges significantly from its predecessor, Destiny: Rising retains a similar MMO looter-shooter essence. In certain aspects, it feels even more like an MMO than Destiny 2, prompting us to explore five features that Bungie could incorporate into the main series from Destiny: Rising.
Five Features Destiny 2 Should Adopt from Destiny Rising
Comprehensive Perk Descriptions
Perks play a crucial role in seeking ideal configurations in Destiny 2. Unfortunately, the game often neglects to specify the exact strengths of these perks. A newcomer might not realize that the Vorpal Weapon perk on Heavy weapons only boosts damage by 10%, which pales in comparison to Bait and Switch.
While there are excellent third-party tools available, such as light.gg and D2Foundry for theorycrafting, essential perk information should be straightforwardly available within the game. In Destiny: Rising, players can easily view that the Subsistence perk reloads 25% of the magazine upon defeating enemies, providing clear and immediate insight.
Consistent Roguelite Mode
Roguelites are designed for replayability, and the finest modes in Destiny 2 tend to feature substantial incentives and variety for repeated play. The Nether from Heresy was a standout seasonal activity due to its unique health mechanics and evolving encounters and boons, yet it was eventually removed with The Edge of Fate.
Destiny: Rising features a mode called Singularity: Chaos, where players navigate through random rooms, accomplishing objectives and acquiring modifiers to enhance their performance. This mode is crucial for gathering specific resources absent in Destiny 2 but exemplifies simplicity and replayability.
Destiny 2 could greatly benefit from such a foundational activity. Past activities like The Coil and Onslaught have returned, yet their rewards have diminished, and matchmaking may not always be available, depending on the rotation.
Enhanced New Player Experience
The new player experience in Destiny 2 is notoriously confusing. The previous content vaulting made following the storyline a daunting task. Although The Edge of Fate initiated a new chapter, the onboarding process for new players can feel hasty and disjointed from the overall game.
In contrast, Destiny: Rising provides a structured progression linked to its narrative, something Destiny 2 struggles to replicate in its current form. There is a pressing need for a more cohesive and refined introduction for new players, particularly as anticipation builds for Renegades, the upcoming Star Wars themed expansion, which is likely to attract new gamers.
Clans and Clan Housing
Designed to be a social experience, Destiny 2 promotes itself as an MMO. However, clan activities are limited, featuring only clan XP and rewards from Hawthorne. Most clan interactions occur externally, often on Discord, where players coordinate for raids and other demanding challenges, which feels disconnected from the actual gameplay.
On the other hand, Destiny: Rising showcases a more authentic MMO approach to clans. Players can browse for clans or join temporary packs, and each clan possesses a housing area that can be upgraded and personalized using resources from the Pack Hunt mini-game, allowing members to engage without needing to leave the game.
This Den serves as a home base for clan members, fostering a sense of belonging without necessitating external activities–something Destiny 2 has yet to provide adequately.
Casual Activities
In terms of MMO features, Destiny: Rising includes various light-hearted activities that supplement core gameplay. These activities offer relaxation opportunities between serious missions while still rewarding players. Options such as fishing, Sparrow racing, and card games provide enjoyable breaks.
During the Season of the Deep, Destiny 2 introduced fishing in designated locations, allowing players to catch fish and trade them for seasonal rewards. However, like much seasonal content, it was removed with subsequent expansions.
While these activities may not influence the primary gameplay loop, their inclusion can enhance the game’s liveliness, distinguishing it from a mere menu interface. Fans have long requested the return of the Sparrow Racing League (SRL) for a refreshing gameplay addition.
