Did Destiny 2 Ever Cost Money?
Destiny 2, a popular first-person shooter game, has undergone significant changes since its release in 2017. One of the most notable changes is its shift from a paid game to a free-to-play model. But did Destiny 2 ever cost money in the first place? Let’s dive into the history of the game’s pricing and explore the answers to this question.
The Original Release
Destiny 2 was initially released on September 6, 2017, for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. The game was developed by Bungie, the same studio behind the original Halo series. At launch, Destiny 2 was a paid game, with a base price of $59.99 USD. This was a significant investment for players, especially considering the game’s massive open world and complex gameplay mechanics.
The First Year
In its first year, Destiny 2 received several updates and expansions, including the "Curse of Osiris" and "Warmind" DLCs. These expansions added new storylines, characters, and gameplay mechanics to the game. However, they also came with a price tag, ranging from $20 to $40 USD.
The Shift to Free-to-Play
In October 2019, Bungie announced that Destiny 2 would become a free-to-play game. This move was seen as a major shift in the game’s business model, as it would allow players to access the game without paying a upfront fee. Instead, the game would generate revenue through microtransactions and in-game purchases.
The Current State
Today, Destiny 2 is a free-to-play game, with a base game that is available to download and play without a subscription fee. However, players can still purchase in-game items, such as cosmetic skins and season passes, using real money. The game’s economy is based on a currency called "Glimmer," which can be earned through gameplay or purchased with real money.
Key Takeaways
- Destiny 2 was initially a paid game, with a base price of $59.99 USD.
- The game received several expansions and DLCs in its first year, which came with a price tag.
- In 2019, Bungie announced that Destiny 2 would become a free-to-play game.
- Today, Destiny 2 is a free-to-play game, with a base game that is available to download and play without a subscription fee.
Comparison of Pricing Models
| Pricing Model | Base Price | Expansions/DLCs | In-Game Purchases |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paid Game | $59.99 USD | $20-$40 USD | N/A |
| Free-to-Play | Free | $0 USD | $0.99-$9.99 USD |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Destiny 2 did indeed cost money when it was first released. However, the game’s shift to a free-to-play model has made it more accessible to a wider audience. While the game still generates revenue through microtransactions and in-game purchases, the base game is now available to download and play without a subscription fee.