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Destiny 2: The Final Shape

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

2024

GenresAdventure, Action, Shooter, RPG, Single Player, Multiplayer, First Person Perspective

AvailableJun 4, 2024

PlatformPlayStation 4, PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Xbox One

DeveloperBungie

Overview

The Final Shape looms—a nightmarish calcification of reality into the Witness's twisted design. Embark on a perilous journey into the heart of the Traveler, rally the Vanguard, and end the War of Light and Darkness.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Destiny 2: The Final Shape delivers a powerful, emotional conclusion to the Light and Darkness Saga, earning praise for its character-driven storytelling and satisfying resolution. Critics celebrate its ability to revisit old narratives while introducing fresh elements like Prismatic subclasses. Key characters like Zavala and Cayde-6 receive significant arcs, enhancing player connection. However, some dissenters highlight predictable plot twists and issues of pacing, suggesting reliance on nostalgia. Despite these critiques, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive, marking this expansion as a high point in Destiny’s storytelling legacy.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

96%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The majority of critics have praised the story of Destiny 2: The Final Shape, highlighting its emotional depth and satisfying conclusion to the long-running Light and Darkness Saga. Reviewers from CGMagazine and Game Informer noted the expansion's ability to revisit and resolve old story beats while introducing new elements, such as Prismatic subclasses. Many critics, including those from IGN Brasil and PlayStation Universe, emphasized the personal and character-driven storytelling that resonates with players, showcasing significant character arcs, particularly for beloved figures like Commander Zavala and Cayde-6. The narrative's structure, as noted by Malditos Nerds and Multiplayer.it, is designed for immersive play, enhancing the overall experience and making it accessible for both new and returning players. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, a few critics raised concerns regarding certain aspects of the narrative. For instance, Gameliner pointed out that some plot twists felt predictable, while WellPlayed criticized the story for lacking substance and depth, suggesting it relied too heavily on nostalgia and fan service. This sentiment was echoed by some who felt that key character returns were forced and that pacing issues detracted from the overall impact of the narrative. The criticism from WellPlayed stands in contrast to the general acclaim, indicating that while many found the story compelling, there were notable dissenting opinions regarding its execution. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Destiny 2: The Final Shape delivers one of the best narratives in the franchise, successfully tying up a decade-long saga with emotional weight and character development. Reviewers like GameSpot and Gaming Nexus celebrated the expansion for setting a new standard in storytelling, while RPG Site referred to it as a near-perfect conclusion for long-time fans. While some critiques exist regarding predictability and pacing, the overwhelming sentiment is that the expansion provides a rewarding and engaging experience, marking a significant milestone in the Destiny series.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Destiny 2: The Final Shape impresses with its new Prismatic subclasses, offering deep customization and thrilling action that critics rave about. While the campaign stakes are high and new enemies enrich gameplay, some point to repetitive elements and difficulty spikes, particularly for solo players. Overall, it’s hailed as a standout expansion in the looter shooter genre, delivering engaging combat and innovative mechanics despite minor flaws. Expect an exhilarating experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

88%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

12%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Destiny 2: The Final Shape has received a largely positive reception from critics, with many praising the introduction of the new Prismatic subclasses. CGMagazine highlights the solid campaign experience and the genuine stakes involved, while Game Informer emphasizes the intense action and depth added by the new subclasses. Critics such as God is a Geek and MeuPlayStation commend the moment-to-moment action and strategic gameplay, noting that the Prismatic subclass allows for a mix-and-match of abilities that enhances player customization. The addition of new enemy types and varied activities, as mentioned by IGN France and Eurogamer, contributes to a rich and engaging gameplay experience that keeps players invested. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some critics have pointed out certain drawbacks. Gameliner notes that while the Prismatic subclass introduces exciting new mechanics, some gameplay elements can become repetitive over time, potentially diminishing the overall excitement. Additionally, Gaming Nexus raises concerns about the initial difficulty spike for solo players and the potential for anti-social behavior due to the new pathfinder mechanic. While the campaign and missions are generally well-received, TheSixthAxis mentions that the final boss fight's difficulty may be a significant jump, which could frustrate some players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Destiny 2: The Final Shape delivers a compelling gameplay experience that stands out in the looter shooter genre. Most reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the innovative mechanics introduced, particularly the Prismatic subclass, which enhances build variety and combat strategies. Critics like TheXboxHub and Vandal assert that the gameplay is among the best in the Destiny series, with engaging combat encounters and a well-measured difficulty curve. While there are some concerns regarding repetitiveness and difficulty spikes, the majority sentiment remains highly favorable, indicating that players can expect a thrilling and dynamic experience in this expansion.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

"Destiny 2: The Final Shape" wows critics with its stunning graphics and immersive environments, showcasing Bungie's artistic brilliance. While praised for its visual variety and creativity, some point out limitations tied to an aging graphics engine and potential overwhelming design choices. Overall, it’s a visually captivating expansion that solidifies Bungie's commitment to high-quality design.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

100%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of "Destiny 2: The Final Shape" have received widespread acclaim from critics, with many highlighting the artistic achievements and immersive environments that Bungie has crafted. Reviewers such as Game Informer and Gameliner praised the new destination inside the Traveler, noting its striking artistry and the successful blend of familiar and surreal elements. Critics like God is a Geek and PlayStation Universe emphasized the visual variety and the ability of the environments to evoke both beauty and discomfort, creating a compelling atmosphere. The Pale Heart area has been particularly celebrated, with its diverse biomes and unique aesthetics described as visually stunning by multiple sources, including IGN France and GamesRadar+. Across the board, the visuals have been characterized as some of the best in the series, showcasing Bungie's commitment to high-quality design. Despite the overall positive reception, a few critics pointed out some limitations within the game’s visual presentation. Vandal noted the constraints of the aging graphics engine, particularly during cinematic moments, suggesting that while the visuals are impressive, they may not fully leverage the potential of modern gaming technology. This sentiment hints at a slight inconsistency in visual fidelity, which could detract from the immersive experience for some players. Additionally, while the environments are praised for their creativity, there may be a concern that certain design choices could feel overwhelming or confusing, as indicated by some critiques of the surreal elements in the visuals. In summary, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the graphics and visual design of "Destiny 2: The Final Shape." The majority of reviewers, including those from IGN Brasil and Dexerto, highlighted the game’s stunning visuals and imaginative environments, which enhance the overall gaming experience. While there are minor criticisms regarding the limitations of the graphics engine and occasional overwhelming design choices, the general sentiment is that Bungie has delivered a visually captivating expansion that stands as a testament to their artistic vision and technical prowess.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics praise Destiny 2: The Final Shape for its standout voice acting, especially Keith David as Zavala, and strong sound design that enhances gameplay. However, the music lacks the emotional depth of previous expansions, with mixed reviews on its overall impact. While sound elements shine, the soundtrack falls short, leaving a divided reception among players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

88%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

13%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Destiny 2: The Final Shape have garnered a largely positive reception from critics, particularly regarding the voice acting and overall production quality. Gameliner and IGN Brasil both highlight Keith David's performance as Zavala, noting the emotional depth he brings to the character, especially in light of Lance Reddick's absence. This sentiment is echoed by TheSixthAxis, which praises the increased voice work and impactful sound design during battles, suggesting that the audio elements significantly enhance the storytelling experience. Additionally, COGconnected commends the phenomenal production quality, describing the soundtrack as a "harmonious tapestry" that contributes to the game's overall atmosphere. Critics from Multiplayer.it and TheXboxHub also emphasize the quality of sound design, with the latter noting the effectiveness of creepy voices and creature sounds that elevate the game's immersive experience. However, not all opinions are uniformly positive, particularly regarding the music. WellPlayed expresses disappointment, stating that the soundtrack lacks the emotional impact and cleverness of previous expansions, attributing this shortfall to the absence of composer Michael Salvatori. This critique suggests that while the sound design and voice acting are strong, the music may not live up to the high standards set by earlier installments in the series. Critics like PCGamesN mention atmospheric music but do not explicitly state it as a standout feature, indicating a potential inconsistency in the musical experience across different platforms. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Destiny 2: The Final Shape excels in voice acting and sound design, particularly with the performances of Keith David and the atmospheric elements during gameplay, the music has received mixed reviews. While some critics like COGconnected highlight the soundtrack's quality, others, such as WellPlayed, feel it falls short compared to past expansions. This dichotomy indicates that while the game delivers a strong auditory experience in certain areas, there are notable shortcomings in its musical composition that may affect players' overall enjoyment.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Destiny 2: The Final Shape has received rave reviews for its voice acting, particularly from Nathan Fillion as Cayde-6 and Keith David as Zavala, who bring emotional depth and authenticity to the characters. Critics praise Fillion's "pitch-perfect" performance and David's fresh take on Zavala, significantly enhancing the game's narrative. However, some fans noted the changes in voice actors may disrupt emotional connections for long-time players. Overall, the voice acting is deemed a standout feature that elevates the storytelling, setting a new standard for future expansions.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

92%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Destiny 2: The Final Shape has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics across various platforms. Reviewers such as CGMagazine and TheSixthAxis highlighted the return of Nathan Fillion as Cayde-6 and Keith David as Commander Zavala, praising their performances for adding emotional depth and authenticity to the characters. Critics like God is a Geek and GAMINGbible emphasized Fillion's portrayal as "pitch-perfect" and "emotionally engaging," while David's performance was lauded for honoring the essence of Zavala while bringing a fresh interpretation. The overall sentiment is that the voice acting significantly enhances the narrative, with many critics noting how it contributes to the mature and emotional storytelling experience. Despite the widespread acclaim, there are a few criticisms to address. Some reviewers, such as TheXboxHub, noted that the change in voice actor for Zavala, while well-executed, felt different from what players may have expected. This sentiment was echoed by others who observed that some character voices had changed, which could potentially affect the emotional connection for long-time fans. While the performances themselves were praised, the transition in voice actors for certain characters may not resonate with all players, leading to a mixed reception in that regard. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in Destiny 2: The Final Shape is a standout feature that elevates the game's narrative. With most reviewers agreeing on the high quality of performances, particularly from Nathan Fillion and Keith David, it's clear that the voice acting plays a crucial role in enhancing character development and emotional engagement. Critics such as But Why Tho? and Dexerto emphasized how these performances contribute to the depth of the story, indicating that the voice acting not only meets but exceeds expectations, setting a new standard for future expansions.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Destiny 2: The Final Shape sees mixed reviews across platforms. PS5 and PC performances are generally stable, but server issues and matchmaking flaws plague the experience. Xbox Series X faces interface confusion and multiplayer stability concerns. Critics urge Bungie to resolve these technical challenges to improve gameplay as updates roll out.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

14%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

86%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Destiny 2: The Final Shape has garnered mixed reviews across different gaming platforms, with some positive notes highlighted by critics. On PlayStation 5, Gameliner and TheSixthAxis noted that, while there were initial server capacity issues typical of live service games, the overall performance was stable, especially during gameplay. MeuPlayStation also pointed out that, despite minor issues with the player search system, there were no significant technical problems reported. On Xbox Series X, Multiplayer.it acknowledged the game's many qualities, suggesting that the core experience remains enjoyable despite some interface confusion. On PC, Eurogamer reported no technical performance issues, indicating a smooth experience for players on that platform. However, the negatives emerged prominently in the reviews, particularly concerning server and activity stability. Both Gameliner and IGN France highlighted server issues during community events, which could hinder the gaming experience for players. MeuPlayStation's mention of flaws in the player search system adds to the concerns about matchmaking efficiency. On Xbox Series X, Multiplayer.it expressed worries about the stability of activities with large player counts, suggesting that this could be a significant drawback for players engaging in multiplayer modes. The situation is more troubling on PC, where Gaming Nexus pointed out various bugs, including activity tracking and rendering issues, which detracted from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Destiny 2: The Final Shape has a solid foundation, particularly on PS5 and PC, there are notable technical performance challenges that need addressing. Critics like Gameliner and IGN France emphasized the initial server capacity issues, while Gaming Nexus raised alarms about bugs on PC that could impact gameplay. The mixed reviews suggest that while the game has the potential to improve as updates roll out, players may encounter frustrating technical hurdles, especially in multiplayer scenarios. As the season progresses, it will be crucial for Bungie to address these concerns to enhance the overall player experience across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Destiny 2: The Final Shape is praised for its rich content and engaging mechanics, with new Prismatic subclasses and a variety of post-campaign activities boosting replayability. Critics appreciate the fun missions and episodic content structure. However, concerns about repetitive gameplay and new player retention linger, with some feeling that the new episodes lack novelty. Overall, the expansion is viewed positively, revitalizing the Destiny 2 experience despite some reservations.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

38%

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: The Final Shape is predominantly positive, with many critics highlighting the expansion's rich content and engaging mechanics. CGMagazine points out the introduction of new Prismatic subclasses and Transcendence mechanics, which are seen as valuable additions that enhance replayability. Game Informer emphasizes the extensive replay value offered through fun post-campaign missions and a new episodic structure for future content, while IGN France notes the variety of activities available after the campaign, including missions, special quests, and raids. Critics like MeuPlayStation and TheXboxHub also echo this sentiment, praising the significant amount of content and challenges that encourage players to revisit the game, especially with friends. However, there are some concerns regarding the long-term engagement and overall replay value. Gameliner mentions that while there are grinding opportunities post-story, the repetitive nature of some gameplay elements may detract from sustained interest. Similarly, Gaming Nexus expresses disappointment, suggesting that the new episodes introduced do not feel significantly different from previous seasons, which could lead to a sense of stagnation for some players. Additionally, RPG Site raises a concern about new player retention, indicating that the replay value might be limited for newcomers to the franchise. Despite these mixed feelings, the overall consensus among critics is that Destiny 2: The Final Shape offers a substantial amount of content and engaging gameplay that can keep players returning. The introduction of new mechanics, diverse activities, and the anticipation of future content contribute positively to the replay value. Critics like Dexerto and Eurogamer highlight the compelling reasons for players to explore different builds and experiences, while Vandal emphasizes the significance of teamwork in the challenging raid, further enhancing the experience. Thus, while some critics voice concerns about repetitiveness and player retention, the general outlook remains optimistic, with many believing that the expansion successfully revitalizes the Destiny 2 experience.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

95%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment towards "Destiny 2: The Final Shape" is predominantly positive, with many critics praising it as a significant and emotionally resonant conclusion to the franchise. CGMagazine heralds it as a "triumph," emphasizing the exhilarating experience it provides, while Game Informer highlights the complex gameplay and extensive replay value, despite some convoluted systems. Critics like God is a Geek and IGN France celebrate the expansion for its engaging campaign and emotional weight, noting that it particularly appeals to long-time fans. Additionally, TheSixthAxis and Dexerto commend the expansion for its excellent storytelling and the way it unifies the best ideas of the series, with Dexerto even calling it one of the best gaming experiences overall. The strong narrative and gameplay elements are consistently acknowledged, making it a standout addition to the Destiny franchise. However, while the majority of reviews are favorable, some critics point out notable shortcomings. Gameliner mentions the repetitive elements that can detract from the overall experience, while Eurogamer notes minor stutters in integration and a UI overload that could hinder new players. WellPlayed expresses concerns about the narrative not fully delivering on its promises, suggesting that those focused on story might find it lacking. Additionally, Multiplayer.it and Gaming Nexus acknowledge the expansion's long-standing limitations, indicating that while it enhances the series' legacy, it is not without its imperfections. In summary, the consensus among critics is that "Destiny 2: The Final Shape" is a remarkable expansion that successfully concludes a decade-long saga, with many reviewers labeling it as one of the best in the series. Critics like PlayStation Universe and GAMINGbible emphasize its emotional impact and well-constructed content, while others, such as But Why Tho? and COGconnected, highlight its ability to set a new standard for live service expansions. Despite some criticisms regarding narrative elements and gameplay repetition, the overwhelming sentiment is one of satisfaction and excitement for the future of the franchise, with many players eager to see where Bungie will take the series next.

TL;DR

"Destiny 2: The Final Shape" is hailed as a powerful and emotionally charged conclusion to the franchise, with critics praising its thrilling gameplay and strong narrative. While it receives acclaim for its complex systems and deep storytelling, some note issues like repetition and UI overload for newcomers. Overall, it stands out as one of the best expansions, leaving fans excited for the future of the series despite a few imperfections.

MONSTER

Reviews

78 reviews found

100

Dexerto

Jun 13, 2024

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

Destiny 2: The Final Shape is praised as not only the best Destiny expansion but also one of the best gaming experiences, offering a sentimental and satisfying conclusion to a decade of storytelling. The expansion is celebrated for its ability to bring players together and create a collective gaming moment.

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100

Twinfinite

Jun 10, 2024

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

Destiny 2 The Final Shape is a masterpiece, setting a high standard for future DLCs.

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100

PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 5

Jun 10, 2024

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

Destiny 2: The Final Shape is highly praised as the best version of the reviewer's favorite and most played game. The expansion is described as impactful, emotional, and well-constructed, marking the end of a significant storytelling journey in the Destiny universe.

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100

PCGamesN

Jun 16, 2024

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

The review concludes by praising Destiny 2: The Final Shape as one of the all-time FPS game greats, with renewed passion and excitement for the future, ultimately cementing its status in the genre.

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Gaming Nexus

Jun 28, 2024

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

The Final Shape is considered a strong addition to the Destiny franchise, ranking among its high points despite some imperfections and bugs. It is praised for its storytelling and gameplay enhancements.

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COGconnected

Jun 20, 2024

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

The Final Shape is Bungie's best work in the Destiny era, setting a new bar for live service expansions and proving Bungie's excellence in the industry.

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God is a Geek

PlayStation 5

Jun 10, 2024

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

Destiny 2: The Final Shape is praised as one of the best expansions Bungie has produced, particularly appealing to long-time fans. The emotional weight of the story, engaging gameplay, and overall delivery are highlighted as strong points.

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Vandal

Jun 26, 2024

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

Destiny 2: The Final Shape is praised as a fitting conclusion to the series, combining a masterful campaign, innovative mechanics, and a memorable setting, leaving players eager for future developments.

TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

Jun 20, 2024

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

Destiny 2: The Final Shape is praised as the best expansion in Destiny 2, offering a satisfying conclusion to the story arc while introducing new content and mechanics that enhance the overall experience.

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Malditos Nerds

Xbox Series X

Jul 1, 2024

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

Destiny 2: The Final Shape is one of the best expansions, offering a nostalgic yet solid adventure with new content that sets a new quality standard for the franchise.

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