Destiny 2: Renegades Embraces Star Wars Inspiration – Is It Still Destiny at Heart?
Destiny 2 is boldly venturing into a new galaxy of inspiration, drawing heavily from the iconic Star Wars universe for its upcoming Renegades expansion. But is this a seamless fusion or a jarring crossover? Bungie is keen to assure players that while the aesthetic leans into the vibes of a galaxy far, far away, the heart of Destiny remains firmly intact.
The reveal of Renegades, the second expansion in Destiny 2’s “Year of Prophecy” roadmap, sparked immediate and strong reactions. The trailer showcased unmistakable Star Wars elements, including what appeared to be lightsabers and familiar sound effects. This raised concerns among some players, fueling speculation about a potential full-blown crossover that might compromise the game’s established lore and immersion.
Some fans worried that it felt like a forced attempt to capitalize on the popularity of Star Wars, potentially diminishing the unique identity of Destiny. The visuals, some argued, felt more like a cosplay convention than an organic extension of Destiny’s world.
To quell these concerns, Bungie stepped in to clarify their vision. Assistant Game Director Robbie Stevens stated, “Rest assured, Guardians – everything in Renegades is in-canon for the Destiny universe, but we’re leaning into the aesthetic, tone, and vibe of Star Wars to tell a Destiny story with Destiny characters.”
The developers emphasize that Renegades isn’t about transplanting Star Wars into Destiny but rather channeling the spirit and atmosphere of Star Wars to enrich a distinct Destiny narrative. This means no Darth Vader teaming up with the Vanguard, although the Year of Prophecy Ultimate Edition will include a new Darth Vader armor set. It is about borrowing the look, feel, and energy of Star Wars.
VP Justin Truman added, “With each of our Fate Saga Expansions, we’re looking to break from our past formulas and deliver something truly unique, and Renegades is no exception. It’s a Destiny story at heart, but with a Star Wars-inspired take that’s been a dream for us to explore.”
Still, the Star Wars influence is undeniable. The Year of Prophecy Ultimate Edition offers a full array of Star Wars-themed cosmetics, including armor sets based on:
- Kylo Ren
- General Grievous
- Darth Vader
Additionally, the trailer showcases a desert location reminiscent of Tatooine, suggesting a deeper integration of Star Wars environments and themes. Players can look forward to battling with lightsabers and Han Solo’s blaster.
Renegades launches December 2, 2025, packed with new story content, gear, a new dungeon, and, significantly, Star Wars-inspired loot. It forms part of the Year of Prophecy lineup alongside The Edge of Fate.
Ultimately, Renegades represents a bold creative direction for Destiny 2. It aims to capture the magic of Star Wars while staying true to the core elements that define the Destiny experience. As Bungie navigates this delicate balance, the question remains: Will this blend satisfy long-time fans, or will it alienate them with perceived deviations from the series’ established identity?
Are you excited to suit up like a sci-fi legend, or do you miss Destiny’s old vibe? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
