Destiny 2 is known for its dynamic action, longstanding narrative, and impressive weaponry, but it’s also one of the best multiplayer Warhammer 40K experiences around. While there are plenty of surface differences between the franchises, Destiny 2 is built from the same stuff that has kept 40K fans loyal since the 80s. Of course, it’s by no means a perfect translation. There are legitimate Warhammer 40K games out there that incorporate actual lore and characters. But if players want to engage in an immersive grimdark future where super-powered protectors of humanity confront galaxy-wide conflict against alien factions and supernatural entities, Destiny is the place to be.
Fans of Warhammer 40K love its dystopian future teeming with warring civilizations and demonic magic. But the whole package seldom culminates in a gaming experience that mirrors the epic scale of the storied franchise. While plenty of licensed Warhammer 40K games detail skirmishes between a couple of factions and a few varied locales, the scope is often meager compared to the franchise as a whole. Further, the 40K games that try to incorporate a more representative slice of the universe tend to be strategy games that strain worldbuilding by burying players in menus. Destiny 2 seamlessly blends an expansive grimdark backdrop against consequential narratives on a scale that rivals Warhammer 40K. The game’s snappy FPS gunplay, ease of playing with friends, and engaging content are just icing on the cake.
In the grim darkness of the far future, there is only war
Destiny 2’s artistic direction, featuring grandiose architecture, mysterious landscapes, and cosmic anomalies, closely aligns with the aesthetic language of Warhammer 40K. Coupled with the omnipresent juxtaposition of hope and despair, these elements nail the grimdark atmosphere Warhammer 40K thrives alongside. This intertwines with profound lore featuring various species, factions, and even supernatural forces. It all comes together to deliver something akin to 40K‘s complex setting. Sometimes, that’ll mean learning about a space prison and its malfunctioning warden through a Strike with friends; other times, a big bad will reveal itself over the course of a season’s story missions. Either way, Destiny frequently throws players right into its narrative’s most significant moments.
Like the innumerable factions in Warhammer 40K that battle for supremacy, Destiny 2 features various groups vying for control. Each has unique philosophies, goals, aesthetics, and fighting styles. Naturally, this carries the ever-evolving alliances, betrayals, and power struggles found within Destiny 2. Often, these beats reflect corresponding ideological conflicts prevalent in the Warhammer 40K universe. The Fallen, Destiny’s space pirates, turned to a life of plunder after the Traveler abandoned their Eleksni society. The aliens share more than a few threads with the 40K Aeldari factions that have adopted similar practices. Additional comparisons can be drawn between Space Marines and Guardians, the Hive Gods and the Chaos Gods, and even the Traveler and the Emperor of Mankind.
All that said, it would be irresponsible not to mention the elephant in the room. While the narrative delivery in Destiny can be top-notch, especially compared to some official 40K games, Destiny 2’s first few years of content were removed to make room for new additions. While the decision has remained ever-unpopular with players, even in its diminished state, the setting and story content are more than enough to scratch a particular grimdark itch.
And they shall know no fear
The extensive range of weaponry, armor, and customization options available in Destiny 2 should make any Warhammer 40K fan feel at home. And the possibilities likely eclipse what’s available in many actual 40K titles. Titans’ attire frequently retains a Space Marine power armor look, while Hunters and Warlocks often appear more akin to 40K Scouts/Assassins and Psykers, respectively. On top of armor, Destiny 2 boasts a wild assortment of weaponry ranging from traditional fare like shotguns and auto rifles to more unique options like glaives and fusion rifles. This is before individual weapon frames, perks, and rare Exotic weapons turn performance and functionality up to 11. There are even a few options that feel as though they were directly inspired by 40K, like a classic bolter ala the Skyburner’s Oath Exotic and a chainsword via The Lament Exotic.
Destiny 2 players can optimize their Guardian’s stats and upgrade their gear, emulating the strategic planning inherent to the Warhammer 40K tabletop game. Once players have equipped their Guardian the way they want, it’s time to dive into Destiny 2‘s blend of PvE and PvP. The cooperative Raids and Strikes enable players to band together, reminiscent of weighty narrative moments and cataclysmic battles in Warhammer 40K. Meanwhile, competitive multiplayer offers a platform for players to test their mettle against each other, reflecting 40K’s relentless and shortsighted conflicts. And while this content isn’t updated as frequently as longtime community members would like, the live-service title is constantly evolving and adding new content to explore.
While Destiny 2 and Warhammer 40K originate from different creative visions, the two franchises share too much to ignore. Numerous parallels in lore, an extensive focus on wargear, and atmospheric design make Destiny 2 compelling for 40K enthusiasts. The simple fact is that Destiny 2 offers a similar setting at a scale that in-universe games typically do not. And with the flexibility to interact with the universe beyond a lone single-player campaign, it can provide much more mileage. Of course, it’s all the better when some friends tag along for the ride.
Published: Sep 30, 2023 10:30 am