Destiny 2: The Final Shape Review In Progress

The environments and levels in The Final Shape have evolved significantly compared to previous expansions. One of the most notable changes is the introduction of The Pale Heart, a new open-world location set within the Traveler. This location is unique as it is crafted from the Guardians' memories, allowing long-term players to see familiar scenes and places from past Destiny and Destiny 2 content. The Pale Heart is also a departure from the typical planetary destinations, offering a more linear layout that feels like an epic quest, similar to traveling from the Shire to Mount Doom in the Lord of the Rings.

In terms of design and player interaction, The Final Shape's levels incorporate light raid mechanics and challenging combat encounters. These elements provide more engaging gameplay, requiring players to strategize and use their abilities effectively. For example, one level has players hop between two realities to solve a puzzle and defeat a massive boss, while another has them battling to the top of icy peaks using gale winds to propel themselves across massive gaps. The campaign gradually introduces new mechanics, increasing the complexity of gunplay and puzzle-solving as players progress through the story.

Overall, The Final Shape's environments and levels offer a more immersive and engaging experience for players, with a focus on player interaction, exploration, and challenging combat encounters.

Destiny 2: The Final Shape has been perceived as possibly the greatest expansion in the series due to several specific elements:

1. Epic Conclusion to the Saga: The Final Shape brings an end to the Light and Darkness saga, which began in 2014 with the release of the first Destiny game5. This long-awaited finale has been praised for its compelling storytelling and high stakes, as it focuses on the ultimate battle against the main antagonist, The Witness.

2. New Prismatic Subclasses: The expansion introduces the Prismatic subclass, which allows players to mix and match abilities from both Light and Darkness subclasses3. This new system provides a fresh and strategic approach to character customization, enabling players to create powerful and unique combinations.

3. Fearsome Dread Enemy Faction: The addition of the Dread enemy faction brings new challenges and variety to the gameplay3. These original and formidable adversaries keep players on their toes with their unique abilities and tactics.

4. Exciting New Weapons and Armor: The Final Shape offers an array of new weapons and armor for players to collect and use in battle. These additions not only expand players' arsenals but also enhance the overall gameplay experience with their innovative and diverse designs.

5. Engaging Story Missions and Locations: The campaign missions in The Final Shape have been praised for their epic scale, challenging combat encounters, and inventive mechanics. The new locations, such as The Pale Heart of the Traveler, offer surreal and memorable environments for players to explore.

6. Raid and Endgame Content: The expansion includes a new raid that serves as a climactic showdown against The Witness, as well as other endgame content that keeps players engaged and entertained even after completing the main story.

These elements combined have contributed to the positive reception of Destiny 2: The Final Shape and make it a strong contender for the best expansion in the series.