The Strand subclass in Destiny 2 is a prime example of how a game can draw inspiration from other successful titles while maintaining its unique identity. One of the main comparisons that can be made is between the Strand and the slottable Spells in Tiny Tina's Wonderlands, the latest addition to the Borderlands franchise. Both franchise's most recent content features the concept of giving up traditional gameplay mechanics, such as grenades, to gain access to new and exciting abilities. Additionally, Destiny 2 and Tiny Tina's Wonderlands still exhibit other gameplay parallels, like RNG loot and new skill trees being added through downloadable content.
In Tiny Tina's Wonderlands, players have the option to choose from seven different classes, each with their own unique active abilities and skill trees. These powers range from elemental spells to summonable creatures to invisibility, with the changes to the classic Borderlands formula well-received by some fans of the series, as they provided a fresh and exciting way to play the game. The Strand subclass in Destiny 2 follows a similar principle, allowing players to trade in their grenades for a Strand grappling hook with massive utility and other potential undisclosed features.
The Strand Subclass's Grappling Hook Is A Literal Game-Changer
The Strand grappling hook is a unique ability that allows players to connect a strand shard to stationary or moving objects and swing around like Spider-Man. This ability adds a new level of mobility and exploration to the game, allowing players to reach previously inaccessible areas and traverse the environment in new and exciting ways. Swinging through the environment, or attaching to something already moving and following it, isn't a completely new concept in the gaming sphere. Still, the Strand's grapple hook in Destiny 2's Lightfall expansion seems unique and well-thought-out, and initial impressions from players seem positive.
The Strand subclass could also fit well with the current meta of Destiny 2, which has a focus on abilities and their usage. Destiny 2 is currently shifting toward a different kind of gameplay, introducing new supers, new subclasses, and new ways to interact with the environment. The complete overhaul of Destiny 2's mod system and the addition of multiple loadouts will likely help some players gravitate away from pure ability builds. The Strand subclass is a perfect example of how this shift can be positive and bring new experiences to players by pushing them to utilize a more unique playstyle that incorporates extra movement.
Losing Grenades May Help Players Create Builds Around Weapon Damage
Strand-using Guardians that lack grenades should help create a fundamental shift in the game's mostly ability meta, where grenades and fast grenade regeneration are the cornerstone of many powerful AOE builds in Destiny 2's PvE and PvP. Likewise, both modes should feel fresher for new and old players with how all the changes and additions in the Lightfall expansion are coming along.
Ultimately, the Strand subclass in Destiny 2 is a perfect example of how a game can draw inspiration from other successful titles while maintaining its unique identity. The Strand subclass is an exciting addition to the game, adding a new level of mobility and exploration to it. The ability to swing through the environment like Marvel's beloved wall-crawler is something that has been a staple in many games, but its implementation in Destiny 2 seems unique and well-thought-out. As such, it should prove to be a positive change that fits well with the current meta of the game and will bring new experiences to players.
Destiny 2 is available now for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series S/X.