Bungie has now given a glimpse of the sandbox changes that Guardians can expect by the end of the year and beyond in Destiny 2.
Since the release of the Forsaken expansion, there have not been any major updates for the Destiny 2 sandbox. This has been criticized by many Guardians, as there are still plenty of complaints about the current state. Bungie has now addressed this issue. Additionally, there was a preview of upcoming changes.
This is how Bungie will address the sandbox
What is the sandbox anyway? The sandbox in Destiny 2 refers to a specific set of parameters that directly influence gameplay and provide a framework for the game.
This includes, among other things:
- Weapon stats such as damage, range, effect, or spread
- Player stats such as movement speed, jump height, ability strength
- Enemy stats such as strength, aggression, health points
- Impact of mods and perks
So when you change the sandbox, you also change the feel of the game.
Here’s how the sandbox will proceed: In the past, there have usually been larger patches that brought massive changes to the sandbox. Players often had to wait more than half a year for this.
Now, Bungie has adopted a different strategy. Instead of waiting for one to two major patches per year, players can now expect more frequent, smaller patches. The developers hope that this will allow for quicker responses to problems and a more effective adjustment of the meta.
The studio wants to buff as much as possible, according to their own words. However, if they are forced to make nerfs, they want to do so in the smallest steps until a value feels right. This is much easier with smaller patches.
These sandbox changes are expected at the end of January
The next sandbox update is already planned for the end of January 2019 and is set to include a series of changes. There is also a lot planned for the following months. Here are the key points:
Buff for sniper rifles: Snipers are currently in focus for Bungie. Fast-firing sniper rifles should be able to achieve a kill with two body shots in the January patch. In future patches, there is also consideration that more sniper rifles could be capable of killing with a headshot during a super.
Additionally, more snipers with a smaller zoom will be introduced into the game in the future. They do not plan to change the flinch (the flinching on enemy hits) for now, but they will keep an eye on feedback.
The Nova Warp Super of Warlocks: This new Warlock super is currently considered too strong by Bungie and is set to be adjusted in the January patch.
Changes to the exotic fusion rifle Telesto: The fusion rifle Telesto is currently very powerful, especially in the Crucible. There have been increasing calls to revert the weapon back to the Power slot or to tone it down.
With the January patch, the Telesto will actually be weakened. Its projectiles will then be adjusted to its charge rate. Currently, the Telesto does more damage than any other fusion rifle of the same archetype.
However, the Telesto is not as affected by damage falloff and is expected to remain more consistent than other fusion rifles with the same charge rate after the change. Additionally, its damage in PvE will be increased to compensate for the changes there.
These sandbox changes are expected after January
After the January patch, there are numerous aspects that Bungie wants to address. Some changes are already confirmed, while others potential problems are still being investigated. Here’s what Bungie is still working on:
Adjustments to melee attacks of individual classes: After many players complained about the hit detection of the Spectral blades of the Hunter, they were adjusted and now feel good.
Fans have now expressed the desire for the melee attacks of other classes to be revised as well. Bungie is currently working on that too. However, there was no date for these changes.
Changes to top exotics in the Crucible: Some exotic armor pieces like the One-Eyed Mask or the Galanor’s pieces are currently very dominant in the Crucible. However, no changes are planned for now. Bungie intends to examine this topic more closely in the future.
Changes to scout rifles: Currently, scout rifles still feel weak compared to other weapon types – in PvP and PvE. Bungie is taking a closer look at this weapon type, and changes will come in future patches.
Changes to submachine guns: Recently, submachine guns received a buff. Their range was improved. This is intended to make SMGs more competitive. There had previously been calls for a damage buff.
Bungie has now announced that they will first keep an eye on the current change and analyze it. Should the SMGs not be strong enough in Bungie’s eyes, additional buffs will follow in future updates.
Changes to fusion rifles: With update 2.1.0, the damage of fast-firing fusion rifles was increased. Nevertheless, Bungie is currently paying more attention to this weapon type. Because fusion rifles have not been able to compete well against shotguns so far. Further changes are expected in future patches.
Adjustments to the exotic trace rifle Wavesplitter: The Wavesplitter is currently one of the best weapons in Destiny 2. Some fans consider this exotic trace rifle to be overpowered – especially in PvP.
Bungie has now stated that the Wavesplitter is not at the top of their priority list, but they will take a look at the weapon when possible. However, they want to address the general ammunition economy of trace rifles in the Crucible first. After that, they will then look at the effectiveness of the Wavesplitter if necessary.
Titan Skating on PC: Titan skating, a movement method that allows Titans to rush across the map, is disliked by many players. On PC, it can be particularly easy to apply thanks to macros. Some fans have long requested that this method be removed.
Bungie has now stated that they would like to fix it, but this is anything but easy. This mechanic is closely tied to how the Titan’s floating feels. However, they want to avoid at all costs that fixing the Titan skating changes the float ability for all players.
There is no simple fix for this problem. It could take a while before they find an adequate solution.
Power ammunition in PvP: Guardians have frequently requested a reduction in the amount of power ammunition in competitive games. Bungie will comply with this request. The time between power ammo spawns will be increased.
In detail, the initial timer for the first spawn will remain the same. However, the respawn timers will change as follows:
Competitive:
- In Control and Survival increased from 45 to 120 seconds
- In Survival increased from 35 to 60 seconds
Showdown:
- Increased from 30 to 60 seconds
Rumble:
- Increased from 60 to 120 seconds
Matchmaking in PvP: There has been long-standing criticism regarding matchmaking in competitive PvP. Fans are particularly frustrated that solo players are often pitted against fixed fireteams and that teams with low glory have to face off against teams with high glory.
Bungie is aware of these issues. They are being investigated by the relevant development teams. As soon as there are significant updates, more details on potential solutions and timelines will be provided.
What do you think of these plans? Is Bungie addressing the most important sandbox deficiencies with this? Or do you think further changes are needed?
