The artifact mechanics in Destiny 2 I actually think are good. But in the season of dawn, they do not convince me. Read what bothers me and why I see a light on the horizon.
This is how I see the season of dawn: The current Season 9 started in December and runs until March. Actually, I am quite satisfied with it so far. The centerpiece this time is the sundial. The PvE task for six guardians replaces the less popular Vex invasion.
In my opinion, the sundial does much better than the fight against the Vex. We can specifically farm good loot, switch bosses, and the mechanics of the activity are also more fun. Additionally, I personally just like the time travel setting better.
In our article about the paradox time travel theory, I have already gone into more detail about the story. The story, which revolves around Warlock Osiris and Saint-14, is simply great.
Also, the scope of the season is not a disappointment for me. Like most other guardians, it was clear to me that this season cannot compete with Season 8 plus the Shadowkeep expansion.
But what bothers me then? It is the seasonal artifact that rubs me the wrong way.
Wasted potential
What is behind the artifact? Artifacts are tied to the current season. With the start of a new season, it disappears and is replaced by another variant. The item grants a handful of different bonuses.
Artifacts level passively and thus increase your power level, theoretically even endlessly. In addition, you unlock unique and extremely powerful mods. These specifically support you against the dangers of the ongoing season. In Season 9, you have access to “the lantern of Osiris”.
That’s why the artifact disappoints me: Through the artifact, we guardians gain access to special mods. I was curious what Bungie would pull out of the hat in Season 9. When I first saw the complete list of mods, I was not pleased.
Virtually all mods have been simply carried over. Only the element or weapon type was changed:
- Instead of Void grenades, Solar grenades now cause disturbances.
- Last season there were bonus glimmer from Vex, now it’s Cabal.
- In Season 8 it was said that Hand Cannons reload faster, currently it’s rifles.
- Anti-Barrier rounds are now on pulse rifles instead of submachine guns.
Some mods have been completely carried over unchanged. These include, for example, the ability “Disruptor’s Tip”. Artifacts should actually bring fresh wind into Destiny every season.
Last season, champions appeared for the first time, which could only be effectively fought through artifact mods. This season, there were supposed to be new such elite enemies. But unfortunately, they are basically the same champions, just in the form of Cabal.
They still rely on their barriers or rush relentlessly towards the guardians. Additionally, I do not understand why the desperately needed mods are now almost only found on long-range weapons. I can only break the otherwise indestructible champion shields with scouts, bows, or pulse rifles.
Why doesn’t Destiny offer a mix? Both melee and distance weapons could be strong against champions in parallel. Also, artifact mods can only be found on primary weapons, some few exotics excluded. Speaking of exotic weapons, I wonder: Why can’t the showcase models be equipped with mods?
There is a glimmer of hope
What the new artifact does right: I did not want to give the impression that I boil with rage as soon as I see the seasonal artifact. I am just disappointed by the largely missing creativity.
The artifact also offers positive features in the season of dawn:
- The guardian angel mod is fresh and interesting – you are basically an immortal fire shield from afar. You create healing spheres when you take down enemies with the currently favored long-range weapons.
- Previously unpopular mods have been sensibly combined. Now you gain melee and grenade energy when breaking shields. Previously, these were two separate mods.
- The mod “From the Deep” cost 5 energy last season, hardly anyone used it at that price. Now you can deal significantly higher damage with your void super for just 3 energy.
This mechanic is something new: Since Season 9, guardians can collect a new buff: “Charged with Light”. This hides a previously unused mechanic that is very creative.
To charge with light, guardians must equip special mods – these can be bought from the obelisks. The mods grant stacks of light charge for individual tasks, such as multi-kills with fusion rifles.
Once the light is gathered, guardians can sacrifice it for powerful abilities or traits. The new light mechanic allows for very strong and unique builds. However, the strongest obelisk mods demand their toll, for example, they reduce your stats.
Guardians must actively weigh their options and think about their configuration. I would have wished for such aspects from the seasonal artifact as well.
What do you think about Season 9 and especially the current artifact? Do you believe Bungie will expand the artifact system in the future – after all, potential is available.
