My 2022 Game of the Year: A Destiny 2 Odyssey

Selecting a live service title as my 2022 game of the year may seem unconventional, but I have valid reasons for this choice. If I had to choose a game released in 2022, I would opt for titles like God of War: Ragnarok, Citizen Sleeper, or Neon White. However, my last day at this website has given me the freedom to make my own decisions. At GamesIndustry.biz, we believe that great entertainment transcends time, unless it's a live service title that can be removed from the internet at any moment. With that in mind, my game of the year award goes to Destiny 2, a title that has consumed over 600 hours of my life. I was an early adopter of the Destiny franchise, eager for a new space adventure after Halo. Unfortunately, my enthusiasm waned, and I traded the first game within a week of its launch. Years passed, and the original Destiny gave way to Destiny 2 in 2017. I found myself occasionally playing the game, but ultimately grew tired of its unwelcoming nature. In January 2022, my partner encouraged me to redownload the game and guided me through the basics ahead of the release of Destiny 2: The Witch Queen. Within four weeks, I transformed from a casual observer to a dedicated Guardian, thanks to the expansion's engaging storyline and gameplay. The Witch Queen campaign was a turning point, adding a new layer to the story of Savathún, one of the game's main antagonists. The new location, Throne World, offered a fresh experience for all players, with excellent story-driven missions, repeatable quests, and hidden secrets. I must admit that Destiny 2 can be overwhelming for new players, with its complex lore and countless combinations of guns and perks. However, the game's versatility and mesmerizing world make it a delight to play, regardless of one's understanding of the meta or weapon mechanics. Playing Destiny 2 with my partner was a highlight of my experience, as we spent time together exploring the game's world and discussing strategies. The game became an integral part of my life, extending beyond my PC and into my daily routine. I would often play for an hour after work, and we would discuss weapon loadouts and plan our next moves over dinner. Destiny 2 is more than just a game; it's a captivating sci-fi universe that has become a significant part of my life. While it may unintentionally gatekeep itself from newcomers, I believe that the best way to experience Destiny is with a partner who is already familiar with the game. Having both a great game and a great partner has been a treat, and I look forward to continuing my Destiny 2 journey.