Destiny - Review Thread

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In it's current state I give this game an 8.5 (I'm only level 18 so this is a very limited and basic review). The character persistence between co-op and crucible is amazing, the crucible itself is really fun and addictive (and getting loot in it is a motivator). The co-op is a blast with friends, I honestly like it more than any Halo campaign even if it lacks a cohesive story. I knew what this game was coming in, a grindy shooter with different gameplay options depending what mood you're in.

The negatives are that the bosses are too bullet spongy; they should offer a challenge, but not just a bar to take down. The social aspects of the game are abysmal, playing with friends is really the only option. No teamspeak in crucible is mindblowing; Bungie's supposed reasoning behind not having it is some of the stupidest crap ever. They should have proximity chat in co-op so it feels like you're interacting with the other randoms in the world, would really create a greater sense of connection. The weapons could use more variety, although I've only gotten blues so I can't really say; exotic appear to be a lot better in that regard.

The people complaining about lack of content are crazy. For a shooter, this game has an insane amount of content; more than any Halo game ever did. Maybe some people were expecting as much variety as a true mmo, but this is a shooter at it's heart and Bungie have been saying this the whole time. Not to mention they change up crucible game types, as well as added content elsewhere. Plus we have dlc to look forward to which will continue to expand the world.

If they fix some of the negatives like chat (which shouldn't be too hard considering it isn't concrete gameplay mechanics/content), this game will easily be one of the best shooters I've played in a long time, maybe since Halo 3. If Bungie pay attention to people's gripes, Destiny 2 could really be something special for me.
 
FunkyPajamas said:
I was wondering about that. Do you think they're looking at some of the criticism from the fan base and having a discussion on that?

I wonder if this will be a case of reviews being affected by the community. Would that be a first?
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With certain individuals I wouldn't be surprised. It's all about the risk of losing ad revenue before anything else.
 
IAmRandom31 said:
Just reached lv. 20 and well ... it is like someone hit the Unlock button. Screen just suddenly filled up with shit to do.

I would give the game a solid 9/10 with my enjoyment right now. Yes, the mission structure system is basically a repeating pattern. The main reason the game is a 9/10 for me is the overall presentation, the amazing gunplay mechanics, the beauty of the game and the high level of character customization that comes through skilling up.

There are some glaring omissions, some poor design choices here and there. But in the end nothing is getting in the way of me going out on a mission and having a damn fun time destroying the enemies in as classy a fashion as I can come up with. The game gives you the tools to decimate everyone in your path with style and flare with some of the best gunplay mechanics I've come across. That classic Halo feel with some added moves to spice things up.

All this and I've been enjoying the game solo up to this point. I'll be gathering a fireteam eventually to run with since lv. 20 stuff like Heroic Strikes have to be done via a built fireteam and not simple matchmaking.

Bungie sure has built a solid foundation for a franchise here though. I'm 15 hours gameplay in and just hit 20 with my first class. Haven't leveled up my characters subclass at all yet. Still havent finished the story, received any legendary or exotic items yet or done any PvP either. Just 1 match in my belt, just for the grimoire lol.

Game will take a very long time to really take in EVERYTHING.
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AllIsOneIsNone said:
In it's current state I give this game an 8.5 (I'm only level 18 so this is a very limited and basic review). The character persistence between co-op and crucible is amazing, the crucible itself is really fun and addictive (and getting loot in it is a motivator). The co-op is a blast with friends, I honestly like it more than any Halo campaign even if it lacks a cohesive story. I knew what this game was coming in, a grindy shooter with different gameplay options depending what mood you're in.
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That's good to know. I'm really glad to see that the consensus on core gameplay mechanics is positive (and there does seem to be a consensus on that). I will wait until next year to get the GOTY edition on PS4 (two copies, so I can co-op with a buddy, yay!).
AllIsOneIsNone said:
The negatives are that the bosses are too bullet spongy; they should offer a challenge, but not just a bar to take down. The social aspects of the game are abysmal, playing with friends is really the only option. No teamspeak in crucible is mindblowing; their supposed reasoning behind not having it is some of the stupidest crap ever. They should have proximity chat in co-op so it feels like you're interacting with the other randoms in the world, would really create a greater sense of connection. The weapons could use more variety, although I've only gotten blues so I can't really say; exotic appear to be a lot better in that regard.
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Is crucible PvP or Horde mode?
AllIsOneIsNone said:
The people complaining about lack of content are crazy. For a shooter, this game has an insane amount of content; more than any Halo game ever did. Maybe some people were expecting as much variety as a true mmo, but this is a shooter at it's heart and Bungie have been saying this the whole time. Not to mention they change up crucible game types, as well as added content elsewhere. Plus we have dlc to look forward to which will continue to expand the world.
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I think *some* of the complaints are more about lack of *diversity* in content than lack of content itself (i.e. enemy variety, mission types, different areas).
 
AbsintheGames said:
Marketing tricks, no. Gaming outlets championing the myriad of things apparently not available (before reviews), yes. Watching Bungie play the game and tell you that you can go here or there but "in the interest of time" they won't, yes. I'm sorry, shit you talk about your game being able to do before launch should be there at launch, not stripped out. The "room" review is fitting.
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Yes then blame bungie for not delivering, based on what the game actually is, and not years of marketing hype and large game websites shoving it down your throat.
 
I finally got time to sit down and play this game. Started a character, a male Exo with all green rounded face and green lights for eyes and mouth. Got to level 6 in my playthrough. Played story mission up to level 3, did four bounty missions, did two optional events (fucken devil walker ate my nova bomb twice with a side of grenades) got some new gear and got my ass handed to me in the Crucible.

I'm having fun. This game is awesome. I may just buy the expansion pass now and I'm hyped at the future events announced and the raids incoming.

Is it perfect? Nope. Do I wish there was space combat or exploration? Yes. Are the load times inexcusable? Absolutely. But it's a solid game for me and now that the foundation has been set I know the sequels will only be better and more refined.
 
FunkyPajamas said:
That's good to know. I'm really glad to see that the consensus on core gameplay mechanics is positive (and there does seem to be a consensus on that). I will wait until next year to get the GOTY edition on PS4 (two copies, so I can co-op with a buddy, yay!).
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It's really solid. To me it's like a speedier version of Halo with added mechanics (such as double jump). By the way, the AI is fine; play it on harder modes and the enemies are pretty smart in most cases.

FunkyPajamas said:
Is crucible PvP or Horde mode?
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PvP. Yep, you can only talk to your fireteam in PvP.

FunkyPajamas said:
I think *some* of the complaints are more about lack of *diversity* in content than lack of content itself (i.e. enemy variety, mission types, different areas).
Click to expand...

Enemy variety is fine, mission types and areas are pretty repetitive, but it doesn't bother me too much. A lot of people on GAF seem to be all about story and mission structure...and this is NOT the game for them.
 
AllIsOneIsNone said:
It's really solid. To me it's like a speedier version of Halo with added mechanics (such as double jump). By the way, the AI is fine; play it on harder modes and the enemies are pretty smart in most cases.

Enemy variety is fine, mission types and areas are pretty repetitive, but it doesn't bother me too much. A lot of people on GAF seem to be all about story and mission structure...and this is NOT the game for them.
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Oh man, you're making me want to get the game now instead of later. Haha!
 
KooopaKid said:
This is the description of an obsessive and compulsive behavior. I'm not trying to dismiss those who are enjoying the game, every gamer have been addicted to a game at least once before but I tend to think that in loot/grind based games, it makes you forget the time you waste doing mundane things over and over. I think it's kind of a "taboo" in gaming. Refusing to acknowledge you are kind of wasting your time wandering around for a chance to get a good reward.
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No, no its not

What of the people who waste time watching sports, or soaps, or films? are they also wasting their time?

much like an athlete who trains or practices the same things over and over again, he or she doesnt have or is exhibiting OCD behaviour, they do it to reach a certain goal. You want to enter the crucible and not spanked or beat the final boss, you gotta earn them fancy gear and weapons.

Much like life, if you want that new home or car, you will 99.9% of the time have to grind out some hours at work to afford it.
 
FunkyPajamas said:
Oh man, you're making me want to get the game now instead of later. Haha!
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Do it! If you want an accurate representation of people's reactions, go to the OT. People are into it, they understand what the game is and are helping eachother work through everything it has to offer. Of course there are still plenty of reasonable complaints, but it's really not as bleak as it seems. Don't let reviews and knee-jerk reactions bring you down.
 
For those of you regretting buying that have Ghost Edition, prices are up since a couple of days ago on just the ghost replica itself.

They are selling for (completed listings, ie actually bought) $130-150.

I got a damaged box discount for my ghost edition from gamestop pf 10%, so at these prices I could get what I paid for it and still keep the game and other extras.

Steelbook case is also selling for $22-35 or so, so again you could sell the replica and case and get a refund on full price game and still keep it and the expansions DLC.
 
Darklord said:
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Yeah, how can anyone like this game? The beautiful visuals and art design, fantastic music, fun combat, great to play with friends, an interesting universe that they created. It's literally as bad as someones taking a shit right on my face.
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I deserve some derision for the way I phrased that, granted. But at least quote everything I had to say. Regardless of how well sorted the game's presentation is. It has a number of issues that, in my opinion, run much deeper than how good the menu's look. And sure, the combat is very competent, but if every scenario plays out exactly the same, I'd say that's a problem.

You guys have been around the block a couple of times, surely you must've played some games and you're no doubt familiar with the examples I have provided. Regardless of the, perhaps, inflammatory nature of my statement, I think it has merit.

Also, understand that I'm not here to argue something as mundane as personal preference (where's the fun, or use even, in discussing something if it always comes down to that?). But I do want to express my disappointment that for all the money and hoopla this title was surrounded with it has absolutely zero imagination or innovation. I think what I'm trying to say is: if 'consumers' would stop settling for less, games like this would actually have to deliver more. Considering we're almost a year in the new generation of consoles, I'd very much like to see them start pushing some boundaries instead of retreating even further within the confines of the old ones.
 
Be a little shocked if it ends up in the 70s. I've always said there was nothing that really stood out about this game. Where is the soul is what I always thought. With that said I did enjoy the beta and hopefully I will enjoy the game itself.
 
Bold One said:
No, no its not

What of the people who waste time watching sports, or soaps, or films? are they also wasting their time?
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There's not as much mindless repetition in those activities. Regarding films and soaps, you are just following a finite story.

Bold One said:
Much like an athlete who trains or practices the same things over and over again, he or she doesnt have or is exhibiting OCD behaviour, they do it to reach a certain goal. You want to enter the crucible and not spanked or beat the final boss, you gotta earn them fancy gear and weapons. Much like life, if you want that new home or car, you will 99.9% of the time have to grind out some hours at work to afford it.
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The difference is that in loot/grind games the "reward" is random and more often than not meaningless. When you play PvP In Destiny, your character level is not a big differentiator. You grind past level 20 to get the legendary gear but for what? For being able to kill the ??? ennemies you couldn't before but that behave exactly the same?
It's not called grind for nothing. The definition of a grind is a monotonous work or routine.
Grinding is not fun but it's an addiction because you need to own everything. It's not about skills.
 
Is the soundtrack getting a release? I can't find anything on it, it's pretty much the only thing I'm interested right now.
 
Vire said:
I dunno guys, I'm having fun. Is it some life altering experience?.... No, but I don't understand why every game needs to be that.

The worlds are beautiful, the gunplay is great and the music is occasionally truly special. Sure the story is pretty garbage and the mission variety could be better, but I'd be lying if I said I wasn't having a good time.

I just got to Mars and the skyboxes are incredible! Also the Cabal's heads spewing gasoline is pretty rad.
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Its a good game for sure. The problem people are having is that they were promised something big and fresh and it doesn't do more and arguably does less than many AAA shooters. Its the molyneux effect. Promise way too much to consumers and otherwise decent games are get a lot of negative attention.
 
opticalmace said:
Wait now I'm really confused. It says PS3 in the URL and Xbox One in the title, but it's for PS4? lol. :P
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It has been reviewed on both Xbox One and PS4. :D

(i agree with the confusion... :D)

The translation of the final verdict is (more or less):
"Destiny is the fusion of a great shooter with typical MMO mechanics. Regardless several issues, it is impossible not to treat it as a high-quality project, absolutely above average"
 
KooopaKid said:
There's not as much mindless repetition in those activities. Regarding films and soaps, you are just following a finite story.



The difference is loot/grind games the "reward" is random and more often than not meaningless. When you play PvP In Destiny, your character level is not a big differentiator. You grind past level 20 to get the legendary gear but for what? For being able to kill the ??? ennemies you couldn't before but that behave exactly the same?
It's not called grind for nothing. The definition of a grind is a monotonous work or routine.
Grinding is not fun but it's an addiction because you need to own everything. It's not about skills.
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I have been bent over a table by a few blade-dancers to the contrary


I never took issue with the definition of 'grind' I took issue with you equating it to an obsessive compulsive disorder. Loot/grind games much like RPGs have you grind to level up to be able take on the next challenge.

Films and soaps are not different, Coronation Street has been going since TVs were black and white, no there is no finite story, they keep going till they get canned most of the time. The grind in these mediums is a passive one, people watch soaps partly out of enjoyment and partly out of routine.

No its not about the individual's skills, its about what the game will allow you to do. If the enemy is level ?? then no amount of skill will get you over the hump. Gain a higher level and you will have access to the weapons which deal higher damage and be able to face it.

The semantics of whether you call it a grind or maybe just work I guess is up to whoever is playing.
 
Castef said:
It has been reviewed on both Xbox One and PS4. :D

(i agree with the confusion... :D)

The translation of the final verdict is (more or less):
"Destiny is the fusion of a great shooter with typical MMO mechanics. Regardless several issues, it is impossible not to treat it as a high-quality project, absolutely above average"
Click to expand...

Thanks, I'll add this to the OP.
 
I'm still really early and I'm enjoying the game a lot so far, but I can tell already that they need to improve the communication and community aspect. Looking for groups is not as easy as it should be. Proximity voice should be something you could opt in to. Some kind of text chat should be available at least in the tower.

The fact that the Clan aspect has absolutely no implementation in-game besides a fucking clan tag is bonkers to me. I gave that shit a pass for Halo, but that doesn't fly for the type of game they're trying to make here. "Clan" should be another list in the roster screen. It should tell you who's online and who's not. It should give you an option to chat (voice and/or text) to other clan members in game. It should let you set beacon invites for specific missions/strikes/raids that all your other clan members can see and join.

If you're going to go as far as to purposely not implement matchmaking for raids, and yet want people to have a connected experience where you're meeting new people and forming relationships with people you met in-game, than you need to give those people the tools to do that IN-GAME. At the moment, it's severely lacking on that front and that's probably my biggest complaint at the moment.
 
IAmRandom31 said:
Just reached lv. 20 and well ... it is like someone hit the Unlock button. Screen just suddenly filled up with shit to do.

I would give the game a solid 9/10 with my enjoyment right now. Yes, the mission structure system is basically a repeating pattern. The main reason the game is a 9/10 for me is the overall presentation, the amazing gunplay mechanics, the beauty of the game and the high level of character customization that comes through skilling up.

There are some glaring omissions, some poor design choices here and there. But in the end nothing is getting in the way of me going out on a mission and having a damn fun time destroying the enemies in as classy a fashion as I can come up with. The game gives you the tools to decimate everyone in your path with style and flare with some of the best gunplay mechanics I've come across. That classic Halo feel with some added moves to spice things up.

All this and I've been enjoying the game solo up to this point. I'll be gathering a fireteam eventually to run with since lv. 20 stuff like Heroic Strikes have to be done via a built fireteam and not simple matchmaking.

Bungie sure has built a solid foundation for a franchise here though. I'm 15 hours gameplay in and just hit 20 with my first class. Haven't leveled up my characters subclass at all yet. Still havent finished the story, received any legendary or exotic items yet or done any PvP either. Just 1 match in my belt, just for the grimoire lol. Still havent participated in all the Strikes yet. Actually only done 3 of them. Still haven't been in all the public events yet, havent beaten every mission on Hard yet. And I have seen missions go up into the Impossible difficulty for lv. 28 folk. Enemies were much tougher and seemed to have more viable AI in the Heroic story mission for lv. 20 I did of the moon mission yesterday that was the daily Heroic.

Game will take a very long time to really take in EVERYTHING.
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You are going to have to explain that one to me.

puffyshirt said:
I haven't been super following what happens at level 20. Out of curiosity, what kind of stuff are you talking about?
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You get to grind the same mission but now the enemies are lvl 20.
 
puffyshirt said:
Is that literally it? That doesn't sound like "screen filling up with things to do"...
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Well, you do get a few pop up messages that "fill up the screen" telling you there is stuff to do (which ends up just being farming the same stuff with higher level enemies).

So maybe the poster just got the messages and quit the game for the day without realizing what they were actually saying.
 
puffyshirt said:
Is that literally it? That doesn't sound like "screen filling up with things to do"...
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It opens up a vanguard playlist that puts you in strikes, which are higher level to get marks/rep for gear. But it's ultimately the same 6 strikes again and again.
 
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