The new Strand subclass has quickly become one of the strongest aspects ofDestiny 2’s Lightfall expansion, and the developers at Bungie have decided to make the experience even better by unlocking every remaining gameplay customization option earlier than originally slated.Lightfallis the latest expansion forDestiny 2and sees the proverbial forces of Light and Darkness face off in a battle for ages. Players who purchaseLightfallcan get their hands on the never-before-seen powers of Strand, allowing them to cut through enemies andgrapple acrossDestiny 2’s new explorable zone Neomuna.
One of the cornerstone features ofDestiny 2and its gameplay loop is the elemental subclasses players can choose from. Currently, the game boasts three Light subclasses and two Darkness subclasses with perks and drawbacks, adhering to certain archetypes.Subclasses inDestiny 2are highly customizablethanks to the “Subclass 2.0” system, which allows players to pick and choose grenades, movement skills, and even class-related abilities. The same system allows players to dip into Aspects and Fragments, often enabling the usage of beneficial effects or debuffs that can be inflicted on enemies and even changing player skills altogether.
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As a new subclass, Strand received the “Subclass 2.0” treatment from the earliest stages of Lightfall’s development. Throughout the newDestiny 2campaign, players were only given access to a restricted version of Strand and only as a narrative tool. Upon completing the storyline, players could finally utilize Strand freely and unlock the initial fragments and aspects needed to create a functioning build. However, players quickly realized that most of the fragments were locked behind two separate time gates, with some even requiring completion of the upcoming Raid. Players were quick to voice their displeasure, ultimately pushing Bungie to remove the time gates and making all remaining Strand fragments available.
Bungie’s decision to remove the time gating on Strand fragments is a welcome change of pace and a sign that the developers have learned from the struggles of Stasis. In theBeyond Lightera, players had to contend with several hours of gameplay with neutered abilities to unlock all the necessary bells and whistles to make Stasis feel competitive. In contrast, players can either farm for Strand meditations or let the currency accumulate gradually and purchase the Strand fragments at their own pace. Thefreedom to customize and craft unique builds is Destiny 2’s biggest strength, and the changes to Strand reflect Bungie’s dedication to upholding that core tenant.
Destiny 2is going through a rough launch, with critics blasting the zany narrative decisions andrumors ofLightfallbeing a filler expansion forDestiny 2. Even then, Strand’s ability to influence player creativity proves Bungie’s capabilities as a studio. Players can jump in-game right now to unlock the remaining fragments, and enjoy Strand to their heart’s content.
Destiny 2is now available for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
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