The following contains MAJOR spoilers forDestiny 2’s Final Shape campaign.
Destiny 2’s Final Shape expansion is one of 2024’s most anticipated gaming experiences, as it brings ten years worth ofDestinyto an epic conclusion in a fight against the franchise’s primary antagonist, the Witness. Once again, as is the case with everyDestinyexpansion, players have the opportunity to play through an original campaign with the option to experience it on the MMO’s acclaimed Legendary difficulty for even greater rewards. The Final Shape’s main story is one ofDestiny 2’s most emotional yet, and rightly so, consideringDestiny’s entire overarching narrative has now come to a head. Each big story beat sees the charactersDestinyfans have come to know and love over the last decade facing significant challenges.
The story ofDestiny 2’s Final Shape expansiondoes an excellent job of developing the franchise’s biggest characters, but one of its most significant methods for accomplishing this involves Ghosts, the small, sapient machines that the Traveler created shortly after the Collapse to resurrect those who can wield the Light, known as Guardians. These valuable companions have accompanied Guardians throughoutDestiny’s decade-long story, providing them with guidance and support on their journey, but The Final Shape sees Ghosts rise to an unprecedented role of prominence as they transition from merely useful tools to beloved friends whom Guardians can’t bear to be separate from. This emphasized bond between Guardians and their Ghosts in The Final Shape matters more than it ever has, as it reinforces the narrative that is meant to be the culmination of all thingsDestiny.
How Destiny 2: The Final Shape’s Emphasis on the Guardian-Ghost Bond Reinforces Its Narrative
Destiny 2’s Ghosts Have Been Sidelined for Far Too Long
Destiny 2’s Ghosts are arguably the game’s most valuable characters. This is primarily because if a Guardian dies, their Ghost can resurrect them. Cayde-6 learned this the hard way when his Ghost was destroyed inDestiny 2’s Forsaken expansion, leaving him vulnerable to a fatal blow by Uldren. Unfortunately, despite their usefulness and value to Guardians, Ghosts have largely been sidelined throughoutDestiny’s lifespan and reduced to mere tools who have the power to resurrect their companions.
The Final Shape’s Guardian-Ghost Bond Emphasis Increases the Threat of the Witness
Destiny 2’s Final Shape campaignfixes the Ghost issue by emphasizing the intimate bond Guardians share with their Ghosts more than any story ever has in the history ofDestiny. Rather than reducing Ghosts to nothing more than a quick fix or an information vendor, The Final Shape makes each Guardian’s Ghost an invaluable friend — even the player’s. It is heartbreaking to see what Ghosts would do for their Guardians in The Final Shape, only to realize they have been sidelined for far too long inDestiny. Nevertheless, this bond that Guardians share with their Ghosts reinforces the expansion’s story by increasing the threat of the Witness and the sense of urgency that comes with stopping them.
The Final Shape makes it clear that stoppingthe Witnessfrom enacting the final shape is everything. If the Witness is allowed to proceed with their plans, all things will come to an end, so it is vital that the Guardians interfere. This threat is further emphasized by the now-strengthened bond between Guardians and their Ghosts, as it is made abundantly clear that they won’t get far without one another.
Guardians need their Ghosts to survive and proceed, and Ghosts have no purpose without their Guardians. However, their relationship is now much more than it ever was, as bonds like that whichCayde-6shares with his Ghost Sundance are consistently highlighted throughout the campaign. This includes the player’s Ghost, who regularly expresses their affection for their beloved Guardian, so now players can experience the world ofDestiny 2alongside a friend, rather than as a mere tool of immortality.
Destiny 2
WHERE TO PLAY
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.An Immersive StoryYou are a Guardian, defender of the Last City of humanity in a solar system under siege by infamous villains. Look to the stars and stand against the darkness. Your legend begins now.Guardian ClassesChoose from the armored Titan, mystic Warlock, or swift Hunter.
