[Discussion] Bungie Revamps Destiny 2: Two Expansions Annually and Free Major Updates Quarterly

Destiny 2 Overhauls Seasonal Model With Two Small Expansions Yearly

Unveiling a significant strategic shift, Bungie announced today that Destiny 2's upcoming seasonal model is to consist of two smaller expansions every year. Starting with the upcoming "Codename: Apollo," Bungie will reorient its approach, pivoting from a linear progression to a more interconnected, web-like structure. Game Director Tyson Green revealed that instead of one large annual release, the game's fans should expect two medium-sized expansions every six months.

Redefining Major Updates With Free Access and Greater Flexibility

In addition to revising the expansion strategy, Bungie also plans to roll out four substantial "Major Updates" every year, scheduled every three months. These updates are designed to reinvigorate the core gaming experience with new activities and reward content. Remarkably, unlike the paying options of seasons and episodes, these Major Updates will be freely accessible to all players.

Bungie's next expansion, "Codename: Apollo," is planned as a nonlinear, character-driven adventure. Narrative Director Alison Lührs explained that this unique approach affords the player freedom to explore different regions and tasks, with the opportunity to revisit missed objectives. As opposed to a conventional progression, Codename: Apollo's unfolding story will be primarily driven by player progression, providing a seamless narrative experience from beginning to end without time gating or wait periods.

Future Enhancements Unveiled Amidst Decade-Long Milestone

Besides the major updates and expansion releases, Bungie also hinted at a plethora of forthcoming enhancements. The studio hopes to revamp some of the game's primary activities and reward schemes. The shift in the expansion model, which has been a staple of the franchise, signals the studio's pursuit of reinvention and novel ventures as they mark the franchise's 10th anniversary today.

These changes emerge in the wake of a challenging period for the studio, characterized by player burnout, a shrinking player base, widespread criticism, brutal layoffs, and an overall negative sentiment following the release of the game's landmark expansion, The Final Shape, in June. Despite these setbacks, Bungie's dedication to Destiny 2's growth remains unwavering. The studio refers to it as the franchise's "next saga," a successor to the decade-long Light and Dark saga. Despite the cancellation of numerous projects and the delay of their shooter game, Marathon, the future relevance of the studio hangs in the balance.