Highlights
Bungie has confirmed that there will be no open betas for Destiny 2: The Final Shape, as it wants to deliver a "vacuum-sealed experience" for its launch on February 27, 2024.
The Final Shape, the concluding expansion in the Light and Darkness saga of Destiny 2, signifies Bungie's daring endeavor to revamp both post-launch content and the long-term progression system. By opting out of an open beta, Bungie takes a calculated risk, banking on the allure of total secrecy surrounding The Final Shape until its release, capturing the excitement of fans. This expansion will entail an exploration of The Traveler in pursuit of The Witness.
Bungie has confirmed that there will be no open betas for Destiny 2: The Final Shape. Open betas have traditionally been used by Bungie to test server strength and promote each release since the original launch of Destiny in 2014. However, The Final Shape is a departure from previous Bungie releases. Bungie aims to create a seamless experience for players when the expansion launches on February 27, 2024.
The Final Shape is intended to be the concluding expansion in Destiny 2's Light and Darkness saga, bringing an end to a decade-long story. Despite it being logical to avoid making significant changes to Destiny 2 with the final expansion, Bungie seems to have different plans. They are revamping the post-launch seasonal content schedule and reinventing the long-term progression system of Destiny 2. Additionally, they are introducing a Fireteam Finder matchmaking system. Bungie is clearly willing to take risks with the launch of The Final Shape.
Bungie's Destiny 2 Showcase 2023 event brought an important piece of news right at the beginning. Destiny 2 players will not have the opportunity to participate in an open beta for The Final Shape, the upcoming expansion set to launch on February 27, 2024. This will mark the players' first venture into this new world, regardless of whether they have been long-time fans or newcomers to the game. Bungie assures that everyone will be welcomed into this unexplored realm. The reasoning behind this decision is not explained, though Bungie has traditionally used betas, both open and closed, to test various aspects of their expansions and releases. While closed betas under non-disclosure agreements may still be utilized for testing, The Final Shape will not benefit from the comprehensive testing that open betas usually provide.
Bungie is taking a risk by not revealing any details about The Final Shape before its launch, but fans seem to be enthusiastic about this approach. Games like Elden Ring also adopt this concept, which fans appreciate. However, it is crucial for Bungie to ensure that the secrets within The Final Shape are truly worth uncovering.
In The Final Shape expansion, Destiny 2 players will venture into the depths of The Traveler through a portal in pursuit of the antagonist known as The Witness. Bungie has confirmed that a new area called The Pale Heart awaits beyond the portal. This area is described as a "linear destination" that will progressively change. Players will have the opportunity to uncover the heart of The Final Shape from February 27, 2024.
Destiny 2 is available now on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
