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MONSTER

Destiny 2

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Destiny 2
Item: Destiny 2
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2017

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Shooter, RPG, Single Player, Multiplayer, First Person Perspective

AvailableSep 6, 2017

PlatformPC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

DeveloperBungie

Overview

Dive into the world of Destiny 2 to explore the mysteries of the solar system and experience responsive first-person shooter combat. Unlock powerful elemental abilities and collect unique gear to customize your Guardian's look and playstyle. Enjoy Destiny 2’s cinematic story, challenging co-op missions, and a variety of PvP modes alone or with friends. Download for free today and write your legend in the stars.

Elsewhere

7.6

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Destiny 2's narrative garners mixed reviews: critics praise its improved coherence and character development, with a compelling antagonist, Dominus Ghaul, enhancing the story. However, many find the campaign predictable and lacking depth, leading to a disengaging experience, especially for newcomers. While strides have been made in storytelling, there's significant room for improvement ahead.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

46%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The overall sentiment regarding the story of Destiny 2 from various critics is mixed, but there are notable positives that stand out. Many reviewers, such as PC Gamer and IGN, appreciate the improved coherence of the narrative compared to its predecessor, highlighting the campaign's clear objectives and engaging character development. Critics like GamesRadar+ and Attack of the Fanboy commend the game for its immersive FPS experience and the integration of gameplay with the storyline, which enhances player engagement. Additionally, some reviews, including those from COGconnected and PlayStation Universe, point out the compelling antagonist, Dominus Ghaul, who adds depth to the narrative, making it more enjoyable for players. However, the negatives are also significant and frequently mentioned across multiple reviews. Critics such as The Overpowered Noobs and Metro GameCentral express disappointment in the campaign's predictability and lack of depth, describing characters as one-dimensional and the plot as uninspired. Others, like PCWorld and PlayGround.ru, mention that while the story starts strong, it ultimately fails to deliver impactful moments, leading to a sterile experience. Furthermore, several reviewers, including MMORPG.com and Destructoid, highlight that the narrative can be confusing for newcomers, which may alienate new players who are unfamiliar with the lore of the Destiny universe. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Destiny 2 represents a step forward in storytelling compared to the original game, with improvements in coherence and character development. However, many reviewers also note that the narrative suffers from predictability and a lack of depth, leaving some players feeling disengaged. While certain critics like IGN and GamesRadar+ find the campaign engaging and immersive, others like The Overpowered Noobs and Metro GameCentral argue that it ultimately falls short of being a compelling narrative experience. This dichotomy suggests that while Destiny 2 has made strides in storytelling, it still has room for growth and improvement in future installments.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Destiny 2's gameplay dazzles with polished mechanics and satisfying gunplay, earning praise for its engaging combat, variety of activities, and rewarding progression. However, critics note repetitiveness in missions and limited enemy diversity, which can dampen the experience. Despite these flaws, the consensus is that Destiny 2 delivers a compelling, addictive gameplay experience, effectively blending FPS, RPG, and MMO elements to captivate both new and returning players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

80%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Destiny 2 has received a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting its engaging and polished mechanics. Many reviewers, such as GameSpot and GameCritics, praised the gunplay as "excellent," emphasizing the satisfying shooting mechanics and dynamic combat. Critics like Digital Trends noted the variety of activities available, including raids and competitive multiplayer, which contribute to a rich gameplay experience. The introduction of new subclasses and abilities, as mentioned by IGN Italia, has added depth to combat strategies, while the streamlined loot and leveling system has made progression feel rewarding and accessible, as highlighted by Push Square and Game Over Online. Overall, the gameplay's fast-paced nature and cooperative elements have been commended, with many reviewers finding it addictive and enjoyable. However, several critics pointed out notable drawbacks in the gameplay experience. A recurring theme was the repetitiveness of missions and enemy encounters, with GameCritics and Gamer.no expressing disappointment over the lack of variety in mission design and enemy types. Destructoid noted that while the shooting mechanics are solid, the gameplay lacks depth beyond these mechanics, particularly outside of boss fights. Critics like Easy Allies and GRYOnline.pl echoed these sentiments, stating that the mission structures often follow a predictable pattern, which can detract from the overall enjoyment. Additionally, some reviewers, including Gameblog.fr and Game Revolution, mentioned that certain gameplay elements felt unexciting or mundane, particularly in comparison to the original Destiny. Despite the criticisms regarding repetitiveness and limited variety, the overall consensus among critics is that Destiny 2 offers a compelling and enjoyable gameplay experience. Many reviewers highlighted the game's polished mechanics and the fun factor inherent in its shooting gameplay, with critics like New Game Network and GamingTrend emphasizing the cooperative dynamics that enhance player engagement. While some aspects, such as enemy AI and mission variety, could use improvement, the majority of critics agree that the core gameplay is strong, with a solid foundation that encourages both new and returning players to dive into its expansive universe. The game successfully balances its FPS roots with RPG and MMO elements, creating a unique experience that resonates well with its audience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Destiny 2 dazzles with stunning visuals and immersive environments, earning widespread praise for its rich graphics and artistic direction. Critics highlight the vibrant settings and improved effects that elevate the experience, showcasing the capabilities of new consoles. However, some feel the graphics aren't groundbreaking and note issues with world design and a sense of familiarity from the predecessor. Overall, the consensus is clear: Destiny 2 impresses with its visuals, making it a standout title in the sci-fi genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

89%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

10%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Destiny 2 is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the game's stunning visuals and immersive environments. Critics like LevelUp and God is a Geek highlight the impressive graphics, noting the vibrant environments and detailed maps that contribute to an engaging experience. Several reviewers, including COGconnected and FANDOM, emphasize the breathtaking visuals and expansive settings that enhance the overall aesthetic appeal. The game is recognized for its artistic direction, with critics such as Eurogamer Italy and Gaming Age commending the rich polygonal modeling and improved visual effects that showcase the technological advancements of newer consoles. However, there are some criticisms regarding the graphics and visual design. A few reviewers, like GameCritics and Ragequit.gr, mention that while the graphics are decent, they do not feel groundbreaking and reflect the game's console origins. Others, such as The Overpowered Noobs and Vandal, express concerns about the world design lacking cohesion and depth, which can limit the exploration experience. Additionally, some critics, including New Game Network and Generación Xbox, note that despite the visual improvements, certain aspects of the game feel familiar or recycled from its predecessor, which may detract from the overall impact. Despite these critiques, the overall consensus among reviewers is that Destiny 2 boasts very good graphics and visual design. The majority of critics, including IGN and AusGamers, agree that the game features visually striking environments and improved lighting effects that enhance the player's experience. While some reviewers point out areas for improvement, the prevailing sentiment is that Destiny 2 successfully elevates its visual presentation compared to its predecessor, making it a visually appealing title that captures the sci-fi essence of its universe.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Destiny 2's sound design and music earn widespread acclaim, with critics calling the orchestral soundtrack "fantastic" and "a crowning achievement" that enhances gameplay and emotional impact. Standout voice performances add depth, but some tracks are criticized for being generic, especially in combat. While not all elements hit the mark, the overall audio experience is hailed as a major strength that immerses players in the game.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

85%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

15%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The overall sentiment regarding the sound design and music of Destiny 2 is predominantly positive, with many critics praising various aspects of the audio experience. Reviewers such as GameSpot and Shacknews highlight the soundtrack as "fantastic" and "epic," emphasizing its ability to enhance the overall atmosphere of the game. Critics like Multiplayer.it and Forbes describe the music as a "crowning achievement," noting its powerful and emotional impact during key moments. The orchestral quality of the score, composed by Michael Salvatori and others, is frequently commended for its ability to complement the gameplay, as seen in the reviews from IBTimes UK and Gaming Nexus. Additionally, the voice acting is noted to be solid, with standout performances from actors like Nathan Fillion and Lance Reddick, further enriching the audio landscape of the game. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, some critics have pointed out inconsistencies and areas for improvement within the soundtrack. Gameblog.fr and Vgames describe certain tracks as generic, particularly during combat sequences, suggesting that while there are memorable pieces, they are often overshadowed by more mediocre compositions. DarkStation mentions that certain synth-heavy cues can become annoying during battles, indicating that not all musical elements resonate positively with every player. Additionally, Vandal notes that while the sound design is well-crafted, it does not quite reach the heights of the original game's soundtrack, hinting at a sense of nostalgia that some players may feel. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that Destiny 2's sound design and music significantly contribute to the game's immersive experience, with many highlighting the soundtrack as a major strength. While there are criticisms regarding inconsistency and generic elements, the majority of reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the orchestral score and effective sound design. Critics like IGN and GamingTrend encapsulate this sentiment, noting that the audio presentation enhances gameplay and emotional engagement throughout the game. Overall, the sound design and music of Destiny 2 are seen as integral components that elevate the player's experience, making it a noteworthy aspect of the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Destiny 2's voice acting receives mixed reviews; praised for performances like Nathan Fillion's Cayde-6 adding depth and humor, enhancing the narrative. However, criticism arises over the mute protagonist and some forgettable characters, with inconsistent dialogue noted by critics. Overall, while improvements from the first game are acknowledged, there’s room for refinement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

67%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

32%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Destiny 2 has garnered a significant amount of praise from various critics, highlighting its positive contributions to the game's narrative and character development. Many reviewers, such as Wccftech and Gameplanet, have commended Nathan Fillion's portrayal of Cayde-6, noting that his performance adds humor and depth to the character, enhancing player engagement. Critics like Slant Magazine and Multiplayer.it have also pointed out that the voice acting brings characters to life, with notable performances that enrich the storytelling experience. The overall sentiment reflects that the voice acting is well-executed, with characters displaying camaraderie and emotional depth, as noted by IGN and New York Daily News. Despite the praise, there are notable criticisms regarding the voice acting in Destiny 2. Some critics, like Gaming Nexus and PlayGround.ru, have expressed disappointment over the main character's muteness, which detracts from immersion and player connection. AusGamers found certain new quest-givers' voice acting to be irritating, which negatively impacted the overall experience. Additionally, DarkStation mentioned that many characters, aside from the main antagonist, are forgettable, while PCGamesN critiqued the dialogue as often falling flat. These criticisms suggest that while there are strong performances, there are also inconsistencies that detract from the overall quality. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Destiny 2's voice acting is a mixed bag with a strong foundation. While many reviewers celebrate the engaging performances and character depth provided by actors like Nathan Fillion and Lance Reddick, others highlight issues such as the main character's lack of voice and some forgettable supporting characters. Critics like Game Over Online and Gamer.nl have noted improvements in voice acting compared to the first game, indicating a positive trend. However, the criticisms regarding certain performances and the muteness of the protagonist reveal that while the voice acting contributes positively to the game's narrative, there are areas that could benefit from further refinement.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Destiny 2's technical performance is largely improved across all platforms, with smooth gameplay and stable frame rates praised, especially on PC. However, issues like server disconnects and bugs persist, particularly on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, detracting from the experience. Critics agree that while the game is polished, ongoing updates are essential to address these flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

59%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

41%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Destiny 2 has received a generally positive reception across all platforms, with many reviewers highlighting improvements from the original game. On PlayStation 4, critics like Polygon and Game Over Online noted that the game runs smoothly with stable frame rates and minimal loading times, contributing to an enjoyable gameplay experience. Digital Trends and Gaming Age echoed this sentiment, praising the overall optimization and the absence of significant performance issues, even on older hardware. On PC, the game is frequently commended for its robust performance, with reviews from Hardcore Gamer and God is a Geek emphasizing smooth frame rates, extensive graphical options, and overall polish. The Xbox One version also received some praise, with critics like Giant Bomb and Stevivor acknowledging stable performance and fewer issues compared to its predecessor. However, while the performance is generally solid, there are notable negatives that critics have pointed out. On PlayStation 4, several reviewers, including Areajugones and DarkStation, mentioned frustrating server connection issues and disconnects, which can detract from the overall experience. Critics like Gaming Nexus and Hobby Consolas also highlighted bugs, including issues with loot drops and occasional crashes. On Xbox One, DualShockers and GameCrate reported glitches, particularly during raids and matchmaking problems in PvP modes, indicating areas that require improvement. The PC version, while praised for its performance, is not without its issues; GameGrin and Multiplayer.it noted occasional framerate drops and connection problems that can impact gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Destiny 2 offers a significant improvement in technical performance across all platforms, but it is not without its flaws. Many reviewers agree that the game runs smoothly and provides a polished experience, particularly on PC, as highlighted by critics like GameSpot and Digital Chumps. However, the persistent connection issues and bugs, especially on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, suggest that while the game has made strides, there is still room for improvement. As noted by critics like Attack of the Fanboy and Post Arcade, ongoing updates and fixes from Bungie will be crucial in addressing these concerns and enhancing the overall experience for players.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Destiny 2 offers extensive content and engaging activities, making it appealing for both new and returning players. Critics praise the variety of missions and the introduction of Guided Games for easier team play. However, concerns about the long-term replayability arise due to grindy endgame content, lack of meaningful rewards, and loot box controversies. While it starts strong, many believe it risks losing player interest over time without new content or incentives. Ultimately, its replay value remains a mixed bag, reliant on ongoing updates.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

35%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Destiny 2 is mixed, with many critics highlighting the game's extensive content and engaging activities. Reviewers like GameSpot and Hardcore Gamer emphasize the plethora of missions, strikes, and raids that provide ample reasons for players to return after completing the main campaign. Critics such as Softpedia and CGMagazine also note that the game offers a wealth of post-campaign content, including side quests and various multiplayer modes, which enhance replayability. The introduction of features like Guided Games has been praised for making it easier for players to team up for challenging content, further enriching the experience. Overall, many reviewers agree that the game can offer dozens of hours of exciting exploration and engagement, appealing to both casual and hardcore players. However, a significant number of critics express concerns about the long-term replayability of Destiny 2, particularly regarding its endgame content. Reviewers like GameCritics and DarkStation criticize the grind and lack of meaningful rewards, suggesting that the endgame can feel tedious and repetitive. The presence of loot boxes has also drawn controversy, with some critics arguing that it detracts from the overall experience. Furthermore, critics such as Gaming Nexus and The Digital Fix point out that while the game starts strong, it may struggle to keep players engaged after the initial excitement wears off due to a lack of enemy variety and the ease of reaching maximum power. In summary, while Destiny 2 is praised for its vast array of activities and engaging gameplay, many critics are concerned about the sustainability of its replay value, particularly in the endgame. The consensus seems to be that while new players may find a rich and rewarding experience, returning players could face challenges in maintaining interest without additional content or incentives. Critics like Trusted Reviews and USgamer highlight this divide, suggesting that the game's replay value is contingent upon ongoing updates and the willingness of players to engage with its repetitive elements. Ultimately, Destiny 2 presents a complex picture of replayability, with both strengths and weaknesses that players should consider.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

87%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

12%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment towards Destiny 2 among critics is largely positive, highlighting significant improvements over its predecessor. Many reviewers commend the game for its engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and robust campaign. For instance, IGN praises the game as a "visually stunning and engaging sequel," while Game Informer describes it as a "massive and rewarding game" that builds on the original. Critics like ZTGD and Softpedia emphasize the game's enhanced storytelling and cooperative play, making it a worthy title for both new and returning players. The consensus is that Destiny 2 offers a rich experience filled with content, particularly for those who enjoy cooperative gameplay, as noted by RPG Site. However, there are notable criticisms that detract from the overall experience. Several reviewers express disappointment regarding the game's narrative depth and the repetitiveness of missions. GameCritics and The Overpowered Noobs point out a lack of engaging content and a weak plot, respectively, which can lead to a feeling of hollowness in the gameplay. Critics like PCWorld and Vgames echo these sentiments, highlighting the need for improvements in story and variety to meet player expectations. Additionally, some reviewers, such as Trusted Reviews, mention that returning players may find the game lacking in substantial content without DLC, which raises concerns about the game's long-term appeal. In summary, while Destiny 2 is largely viewed as a significant improvement over its predecessor with engaging gameplay and beautiful visuals, it struggles with narrative depth and content variety. Critics like GameGrin and We Got This Covered affirm that the game successfully addresses many of the original's issues, making it a must-play for newcomers. However, the mixed feelings about its story and repetitiveness indicate that it may not fully satisfy all players. Overall, Destiny 2 is recognized as a solid foundation for future expansions, with many critics expressing optimism for its ongoing development and potential.

TL;DR

Destiny 2 earns mostly positive reviews for its engaging gameplay and stunning visuals, marking a significant upgrade from its predecessor. Critics praise its robust campaign and cooperative elements, making it appealing for newcomers. However, it faces criticism for shallow narrative depth and repetitive missions, raising concerns about long-term content without DLC. While it's a solid foundation with potential for growth, not all players will find it fulfilling.

MONSTER

Reviews

246 reviews found

100

GamesRadar+

PlayStation 4

Sep 15, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Destiny 2 is a significant evolution from its predecessor, offering a richer, more engaging experience that surpasses expectations and allows players to enjoy the game in their own way.

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100

Gaming Age

Nov 3, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Destiny 2 on PC is the definitive way to play if you have a system that can handle it.

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100

TheXboxHub

Xbox One

Sep 20, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Destiny 2 successfully addresses the shortcomings of the original game with improved storytelling, gameplay, and visual design, making it a must-play for fans of the genre.

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100

Telegraph

PlayStation 4

Sep 18, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Destiny 2 is more accomplished, more rewarding, and more fun than its predecessor. It's a hugely impressive achievement and a step closer to the promised 10-year journey.

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100

We Got This Covered

PlayStation 4

Sep 13, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Destiny 2 rights most of the wrongs of the first release and solidifies itself as the must-play shooter of the year. It offers an epic and emotional story, stunning visuals, and plenty of post-game content. Players who were turned off by the first game should definitely give this franchise another chance.

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Game Over Online

PlayStation 4

Sep 13, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review describes Destiny 2 as a near-perfect sequel that fixes the few things that were problematic with the original game. It is praised as one of Bungie's finest games yet, offering a gorgeous and epic experience with a nice learning curve and a surprisingly high amount of depth in the story. The game is highly recommended for both fans of the first game and newcomers.

Digital Chumps

Nov 3, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer recommends the PC version of Destiny 2, stating that it is visually and control-wise a far superior version compared to the console version.

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PSX Extreme

PlayStation 4

Sep 13, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Destiny 2 is considered Bungie's best work yet, improving upon the original in every key area despite some concerns regarding microtransactions.

GamesBeat

PlayStation 4

Sep 17, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Destiny 2 is a significant improvement over its predecessor, addressing many issues while providing a rich gaming experience. It is recommended for both fans of the original and newcomers.

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PlayStation LifeStyle

PlayStation 4

Sep 18, 2017

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Destiny 2 hooked me and hasn’t let go. That sense of delight and surprise that Bungie aimed for with the sequel has hit me fully, with a variety of activities to do, worlds to explore, and loot to earn.