Read the full weekly update @ Bungie.net
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Effective immediately, Hot Fix 2.3.0.1 will correct the Players In Activity feature, and cap the display at a maximum of ten friends. We’re sorry for the trouble this caused, but we’re committed to restoring order to the special events you love to play.
Trials of Osiris may return tomorrow. Once we’ve had a chance to confirm that all is well, we’ll sound the alarm that all champions of the Crucible should don their sunscreen and prepare for a trip to the Lighthouse. Stand by for more information on your fate.
And, if all goes according to plan, that’s not all the news we’ll have for the warriors among you. We may also reschedule Lord Saladin’s appearance in the Tower so that Iron Banner can happen next week. This is no time to create a gulf between you and the sole surviving Iron Lord.
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Becoming the Hunted
The gnashing of teeth that followed the June Update wasn’t isolated to postponed Crucible events. The Hunters among us also had some growing pains in adjusting to the new Sandbox. Titans had their turn just after the launch of The Taken King. Warlocks got adjusted as part of the April Update. This time, our caped friends had a new reality to embrace.
“Why!!!?” came the angry rebukes from the Gunslingers and Bladedancers.
As a follow up to the full Update Preview authored by Sandbox Designer Grant Mackay, we have some data to share. Below, you’ll find some motivations in the form of science. Prior to the June Update, in the kill-or-be-killed realm of the Crucible, you can see how the Hunters reigned supreme.
Grant: When one Class becomes the default choice for anyone who wants to do well in the Crucible, we see that as a problem. We chose to bring the Hunters down from their position of dominance because it is our hope that every variety of Guardian will have a fighting chance. We’ve seen the common suggestion that we could just add more power to the less successful Classes. Our concern is that this would eventually make the game way too lethal and chaotic overall. We want you to feel powerful when you’re playing Destiny. At the same time, we want to make sure that you still have the time you need to react and make tactical decisions when you are engaged in combat.
Have we been successful in bringing balance to Destiny? We’ll know in time. While players adjust to the new normal in friendly combat, the data can be a bit erratic. As each Guardian settles into their role in the post-June Sandbox, we’ll be watching and listening.
Now you know that every shot you take is logged by our friends at Bungie User Research. As everyone gets used to their new favorite weapon, tell us what you think. As always, the work of our Sandbox Design Team is never finished.