Ultimate Destiny Rise of Iron Review: Gameplay, Features, and Tips

What is Destiny Rise of Iron?

Destiny: Rise of Iron is the fourth major expansion for the popular online multiplayer first-person shooter, Destiny, developed by Bungie and published by Activision. Released on September 20, 2016, this expansion brings players back to the dark and mysterious landscape of the Iron Lords, a legendary group of Guardians who fought to protect humanity from various threats.

Rise of Iron introduces a new storyline centered around the resurgence of the Fallen, a race of aliens that had been largely subdued. Players take on the persona of a Guardian, who uncovers the tale of the Iron Lords while trying to defend their home against the onslaught of these adversaries. The expansion is set in the icy regions of Old Russia, where players will explore the Plaguelands, a new zone filled with challenges and secrets.

New Features in Rise of Iron

• New Story Missions: The expansion adds several story missions that delve into the lore of the Iron Lords and their battle against the Darkness.
• New Raids: Players can engage in a new raid called “Wrath of the Machine,” offering unique bosses, mechanics, and rewards.
• New Gear and Weapons: Rise of Iron features an array of new armor sets and weapons inspired by the Iron Lords.
• Crucible Enhancements: New multiplayer game modes and maps are introduced, adding depth to the competitive experience.

The expansion also reintroduced the Gjallarhorn, one of the most iconic weapons from the original Destiny. This rocket launcher is a fan-favorite and symbolizes the nostalgia that Rise of Iron brings to both new and returning players. Additionally, the expansion included supers and subclasses for each character, offering players new abilities and strategies in combat.

Destiny: Rise of Iron not only expands upon the established narrative of the Destiny universe but also enriches the gameplay experience with its new environments and challenges. Players can partake in public events, level up their Guardian, and engage in cooperative gameplay with friends or other online players, making it an integral component of the Destiny franchise.

In essence, Rise of Iron is more than just an expansion; it is a tribute to the lore of the Destiny universe. It calls back to the rich history of the Iron Lords while setting the stage for future events and conflicts within the game. These elements together create a compelling experience that resonates with the longstanding fanbase, ensuring that Destiny remains a significant player in the gaming landscape.

Key Features of Destiny Rise of Iron

Destiny: Rise of Iron introduced several compelling features that significantly enhanced the gameplay experience for both new and veteran players. This expansion expands upon the already rich lore of the Destiny universe, particularly focusing on the Iron Lords and their legacy. Here are the key features that make this expansion stand out:

Extended Campaign

The campaign in Rise of Iron is not just an addition; it’s a complete journey into the history of the Iron Lords. Players engage in new missions that delve into the past, exploring Grimoire Cards and uncovering the mysteries of this ancient warrior order. The narrative is compelling and meticulously crafted, providing players with deeper insights into the world of Destiny.

New Locations and Raids

• Felwinter Peak: A new social space located in the snowy mountains, serving as the home for Guardians who aspire to become Iron Lords.
• Wrath of the Machine: A challenging new raid that players can undertake, featuring a series of difficult encounters against the Fallen and ultimately culminating in a battle with the Atheon of the Splicers.

These new locations not only offer stunning visuals but also house a variety of activities, from quests to multiplayer raids that keep players engaged.

PlayStation and Xbox Exclusives

As with many video game releases, Rise of Iron included exclusive content for different platforms. Players on PlayStation and Xbox enjoyed unique quests and gear that added additional replayability and reasons to explore every corner of the game. The exclusive maps for Crucible matched the epic tone of the expansion and enriched the multiplayer experience.

New Gear and Weapons

Rise of Iron introduced a plethora of new gear and weaponry, allowing players to customize their Guardians even further. New armor sets represent the Iron Lords and come with unique abilities that enhance gameplay. The introduction of the Gjallarhorn rocket launcher, revamped for the expansion, created a sense of nostalgia while also incorporating new mechanics that appealed to both old fans and fresh players.

Supers and Abilities

With Rise of Iron, Guardians received new subclass abilities and supers. Each class—Titan, Hunter, and Warlock—gained unique supers that provided fresh tactics and strategies for both PvE and PvP gameplay. These new abilities encouraged experimentation, allowing players to find the perfect match for their playstyles.

The expansion’s key features have not only enriched the Destiny universe but also reignited the passion of its community, keeping players engaged with the game’s ever-evolving landscape.

Gameplay Mechanics in Destiny Rise of Iron

In Destiny: Rise of Iron, gameplay mechanics have been refined and enhanced to offer players a more immersive and engaging experience. The expansion introduces a variety of new features, alongside returning mechanics, that elevate both the PvE and PvP aspects of the game.

Supers and Abilities

One of the significant gameplay mechanics in Rise of Iron is the introduction of new Supers for all three classes. Each class receives unique abilities that not only enhance combat effectiveness but also encourage different playstyles. For instance:

• Titan: The Sentinel, a defensive Super, allows Titans to create a powerful shield for teammates.
• Hunter: The Arcstrider, an agile fighter, wields a staff to dish out damage in close combat.
• Warlock: The Dawnblade enables Warlocks to unleash solar energy blades from the sky.

Weapon Customization

The weapon customization system in Rise of Iron adds another layer of depth to gameplay mechanics. The expansion incorporates new weapon types, as well as perks and modifications that allow players to tailor their arsenal. Players can now unlock Lumina and Exotic weapons that would cater to various combat situations and player preferences, enhancing the overall gameplay experience.

Public Events and Heroic Strikes

Public events are an integral part of Destiny, and in Rise of Iron, these events have become more dynamic. Players can engage in Heroic Strikes that offer increased challenges and better rewards. Completing these events not only promotes teamwork but also provides opportunities to earn valuable loot, including exclusive gear and weapons.

Iron Banner and Supremacy Mode

In the realm of PvP, Rise of Iron revitalizes the Iron Banner event and introduces the new Supremacy mode. Supremacy changes the traditional gameplay by awarding points for collecting crests dropped by defeated enemies, fostering a more strategic approach to engagement. This mechanic encourages players to prioritize teamwork over individual glory, allowing for exciting and cooperative matches.

Traversal and Exploration

The expansion places a significant emphasis on traversal mechanics, allowing players to explore the newly introduced areas more efficiently. With the addition of new movement-related abilities, players can traverse the environment with ease. Elements such as climbing, wall-running, and enhanced jump mechanics add new dimensions to exploration, making the player experience even more engaging and rewarding.

Comparing Destiny Rise of Iron to Previous Expansions

The expansion Rise of Iron for Destiny introduced significant changes and additions, making it a pivotal chapter in the game’s evolution. When comparing Rise of Iron to earlier expansions such as The Taken King and House of Wolves, players can observe various similarities and distinctions in gameplay, story, and content delivery.

New Story Elements

One of the most striking aspects of Rise of Iron is its unique narrative focus. It delves into the lore of the Iron Lords, a legendary group of Guardians from the game’s backstory. This contrasts with expansions like The Taken King, which revolved around Oryx and his Hive army. While each expansion aims to deepen the Destiny universe, Rise of Iron does so by incorporating rich historical elements and bringing back fan-favorite characters.

Gameplay Mechanics and Features

When examining gameplay mechanics, Rise of Iron introduced several new features that enhanced player experience. Notably, the introduction of the Gjallarhorn rocket launcher made a return, providing nostalgic value while introducing a brand new quest line. Additionally, the “Supremacy” game mode was a fresh offering, promoting teamwork in its unique mechanics. Compared to the PvP elements seen in House of Wolves, which primarily focused on Trials of Osiris, Rise of Iron presented a more varied PvP landscape.

New Raids and Strike Content

• Wrath of the Machine: Rise of Iron featured this new raid, contrasting with The Taken King’s “King’s Fall” and House of Wolves’ “Prison of Elders.”
• Strike Missions: The expansion added new strike missions that not only enriched the story but also offered unique loot and rewards for players.

The Wrath of the Machine raid, tied closely to the overarching narrative of the Iron Lords, emphasized teamwork and strategy, similar to previous raids but with its own distinct mechanics and challenges. This addition provided a thrilling endgame experience that loyal players craved.

Visual and Environmental Changes

Rise of Iron brought a stark visual shift compared to its predecessors. The expansion introduced the Plaguelands, offering a grim yet compelling new environment that was visually distinct from the lush landscapes of The Taken King’s Dreadnaught. The desolate atmosphere of the Plaguelands not only enhanced immersion but also set a tone that echoed the somber themes of the Iron Lords’ legacy.

Community and Engagement

Another aspect worth noting is how Rise of Iron engaged the community. The expansion included community events and challenges that encouraged players to participate in collaborative efforts. While House of Wolves had its share of community-driven activities, Rise of Iron amplified this approach by integrating group-based content that not only fostered competition but also camaraderie among players.

Storyline and Lore in Destiny Rise of Iron

In Destiny: Rise of Iron, the storyline unfolds within the aftermath of the Golden Age and the impact of the Fallen on humanity. This expansion introduces players to the legacy of the Iron Lords, a group of legendary warriors who once protected humanity from the dark forces that threatened its existence. Their tale is woven into the very fabric of the game, providing depth and context to the player’s journey.

The narrative kicks off with the resurgence of the Fallen as they seek to harness the power of the Plaguelands, a location steeped in history and plagued by ancient evil. Players are tasked with uncovering the truth behind the Iron Lords and their battle against the Devil Splicers, a Fallen faction experimenting with SIVA, a nanotechnology that threatens the very essence of life. This connection to SIVA serves as a pivotal point in the storyline, showcasing the dangers of technological advancements unrestrained by morality.

The Legacy of the Iron Lords

Central to the lore of Rise of Iron is the haunting history of the Iron Lords. Once protectors of the Last City, they fought valiantly against the Darkness, but their ultimate sacrifice led to their near-erasure from history. Players can explore the tales of these warriors, uncovering their fight against the Fallen and the tragic downfall that followed. This rich backstory is revealed through various quests, collectibles, and lore entries scattered throughout the expansion.

• Sir Jolder: Known for his bravery and mastery of the Light.
• Radegast: A master tactician who created powerful weaponry.
• Skorri: The only female Iron Lord whose spirit lingers on.

As players progress, they encounter the remnants of the Iron Lords through the “Archons Forge,” a central gameplay feature that allows Guardians to summon and battle challenging enemies while gaining insight into various Iron Lord legends. This gameplay mechanic further immerses players in the lore, bridging the gap between the past and the present, and allowing them to walk in the footsteps of these iconic figures.

The Return of the Iron Lords

The climax of the narrative revolves around the revival of the Iron Lords’ legacy. By completing key missions and gathering iron relics, Guardians work to restore the honor of the Iron Lords. The lore builds anticipation as players unravel the mysteries behind SIVA and its connection to the Fallen, culminating in epic battles against bosses that embody the soul of the Iron Lords’ fight against evil.

Ultimately, Destiny: Rise of Iron invites players to not only engage in thrilling combat but to also reflect on the themes of sacrifice, legacy, and the ongoing struggle between light and darkness. This expansion expands the universe with a rich tapestry of lore that captivates players, ensuring that the stories of the Iron Lords live on in the hearts of those who seek to protect humanity from impending doom.

New Weapons and Gear in Destiny Rise of Iron

In the Rise of Iron expansion of Destiny, Guardians are treated to an impressive array of new weapons and gear that enhance their combat capabilities and offer innovative ways to engage in battles across the Solar System. This update not only introduces new styles of gameplay but also deepens the lore surrounding the Iron Lords.

One of the most notable new weapons introduced is the Gjallarhorn, a fan-favorite rocket launcher that was reimagined for this expansion. Known for its devastating power, the Gjallarhorn fires Wolfpack Rounds that seek out targets, making it a formidable choice in both PvE and PvP scenarios. Alongside this, the expansion features a range of new weapon archetypes, including:

• Exotic weapons that incorporate unique abilities and perks
• Legendary weapons with customizable rolls that cater to individual playstyles
• Iron-themed weapons, reflecting the aesthetic of the Iron Lords

In addition to weapons, Rise of Iron introduces a new set of armor for Guardians, themed around the Iron Lords. This gear not only offers increased defense and bonus stats but is also visually distinct, showcasing the rich history of the Iron Lords through intricate designs. The new armor sets include:

• The Iron Saga Set for Titans
• The Iron Fellowship Set for Hunters
• The Iron Resolute Set for Warlocks

Moreover, the expansion features a unique artifacts system that introduces new artifacts which can provide passive bonuses and alter gameplay dynamics. These artifacts allow players to enhance their builds even further, shaping their strategies in gameplay and offering more depth to character customization.

With the new weapons and gear available, players can also partake in the Wrath of the Machine raid, which offers high-level gear that is crucial for tackling the most challenging content in Destiny. This raid not only provides rewards but also allows players to explore the lore surrounding the Iron Lords and their legacy.

Raid and Strike Experiences in Destiny Rise of Iron

The Rise of Iron expansion in Destiny introduced players to a wealth of engaging raid and strike experiences that not only expanded the lore of the universe but also delivered intense challenges that tested the mettle of fireteams. Players could delve deeper into Siva’s corrupting influence while vying for loot and glory.

The Wrath of the Machine Raid

One of the standout features of the Rise of Iron expansion is the Wrath of the Machine raid. This 6-player cooperative experience takes Guardians deep into the Plaguelands, where they confront the machinations of the fallen and the horrors of Siva. The raid is known for its multi-part boss fights and intricate mechanics that require coordination and teamwork. Key aspects include:

• Encounter Diversity: From the opening encounters to the final boss, players experience a mix of puzzles, waves of enemies, and mechanics that keep the gameplay fresh.
• Unique Loot Drops: The Wrath of the Machine raid offers exclusive gear that can only be earned through completing the challenges laid out within its unique encounters.
• Challenge Mode: This mode adds an additional layer of difficulty, allowing fireteams to compete for the best times and rewards.

Strike Missions

In addition to raids, Rise of Iron also enhanced the strike missions available to Guardians. These cooperative 3-player activities are essential for farming loot and completing seasonal objectives. The strikes in this expansion are notable for featuring new enemy types and mechanics linked to the overarching Siva storyline. Some key highlights include:

• Stone and Shadows: This strike pits players against the new Splicers, culminating in battles against powerful new bosses infused with Siva.
• Will of the Thousands: This unique strike integrates vehicle combat and offers a visually stunning landscape that enhances the overall experience.
• Heroic Strike Modifiers: Players can face additional challenges through Heroic Missions, which introduce modifiers that adjust gameplay and add complexity.

Rewards and Progression

Successfully completing both raids and strikes in Rise of Iron rewards players with a range of gear and materials essential for character progression. The inclusion of new artifacts and weapons keeps the grind worthwhile and encourages continued participation in these activities. As players venture into the strikes and the raid, they are not only hunting for gear but also experiencing the rich narrative the expansion has to offer.

Overall, the raid and strike experiences in Destiny: Rise of Iron are designed to cater to both casual and hardcore players. The intricate designs, rich storytelling, and intense encounters ensure that every adventure through the Plaguelands is both memorable and rewarding.

Final Verdict: Is Destiny Rise of Iron Worth Your Time?

When evaluating whether Destiny: Rise of Iron is worth your time, it’s vital to consider several factors that make this expansion stand out. Released in September 2016, Rise of Iron offers an engaging narrative and rich lore that continues the saga of the Destiny universe. Players of the original Destiny will appreciate the return to familiar themes while also experiencing new content that builds upon the existing framework.

Compelling Storyline

The storyline of Rise of Iron introduces players to a new age of conflict, centered around the Iron Lords and their fight against the Fallen. The quest-line is immersive and well-crafted, providing players with opportunities to engage in both solo and cooperative gameplay. The lore expands the background of the Guardians, giving them a deeper sense of history and purpose. For fans of narrative-driven gameplay, this expansion certainly delivers.

Engaging New Content

• New Gear and Weapons: One of the standout features is the introduction of a variety of new weapons and armor sets, enhancing character customization.
• Strike Missions: Added strike missions offer fresh challenges with unique mechanics that require teamwork and strategy to overcome.
• New Raid: The Wrath of the Machine raid is a highlight, providing a daunting yet rewarding challenge for fireteams.

In addition to these features, Rise of Iron introduces the Supremacy game mode, which adds a competitive edge to the Crucible experience. This mode encourages teamwork and strategy, significantly enhancing multiplayer engagement. The addition of new social spaces, such as Felwinter Peak, also adds depth to the player’s experience, allowing for more interactions and community-building opportunities.

Visual and Thematic Enhancements

Another critical aspect to consider is the visual upgrade that comes with Destiny: Rise of Iron. The environments are richly detailed, showcasing the bleak and desolate beauty of the Plaguelands. The aesthetic not only enhances immersion but also elevates the overall experience, providing players with stunning vistas as they battle enemies. The expansion’s themes of redemption and sacrifice resonate throughout the gameplay, making the emotional stakes feel tangible.

Community and Longevity

Finally, the Destiny community remains strong, with players frequently engaging in collaborative events and raids. The new content from Rise of Iron ensures that players have something to strive for, fostering a sense of camaraderie and competition that can be hard to find in other gaming experiences. The ongoing support and updates from Bungie have also kept the expansion feeling fresh, encouraging both new and returning players to dive in.