Destiny 2's reception has been a rollercoaster ride, mirroring the game's own evolution. Praised at launch in 2017 for its tight gunplay and stunning world design, it wasn't without its shortcomings. Repetitive endgame activities and a narrative that paled in comparison to the original Destiny left some players feeling underwhelmed.

However, developer Bungie has tirelessly reshaped Destiny 2 over the years, most significantly with the recent transition to a free-to-play model for the base game. This enticing entry point for new Guardians (Destiny's playerbase) unlocks a treasure trove of content, including the latest story update that just dropped on April 16th, 2024. Imagine getting a full season of your favorite show for free – that's the kind of value the free version offers.

But where Destiny 2 truly shines is its core gameplay loop. If the thought of obliterating alien hordes with a diverse arsenal of weapons and meticulously crafting your ultimate Guardian through loot collection excites you, then this game delivers in a big way. The gunplay remains some of the best in the genre, with a satisfying weight to each weapon and a vast array of options to suit different playstyles. Be prepared to invest some serious time grinding for the highest tier loot to min-max your endgame builds, but the sense of accomplishment when you finally acquire that god-roll weapon is undeniable.

The magic of Destiny 2 truly unfolds when you experience it with friends. Just like a movie night is infinitely more enjoyable with a group, conquering endgame challenges like raids becomes a thrilling test of teamwork and strategy. Coordinating intricate maneuvers in high-level strikes or simply exploring the open world together fosters a sense of camaraderie that transcends the solo experience. Destiny 2 excels at creating those laugh-out-loud moments of goofy happenstance amidst the tension of challenging raid encounters, forging a strong sense of community that keeps Guardians coming back for more.