The Shattered Throne is a unique, challenging dungeon experience in Destiny 2, nestled within the mystical Dreaming City. It offers a gameplay experience that feels more like a mini-raid than a traditional mission, filled with complex puzzles, powerful enemies, and epic boss battles. The Shattered Throne is a must-try for every guardian, providing a blend of difficulty and exhilaration that appeals to both seasoned players and newcomers alike. This article explores everything you need to know about the Shattered Throne map, including its origin, key features, significance, advantages, and more.
Overview of the Shattered Throne Map
The Shattered Throne is Destiny 2’s first dungeon and one of its most iconic activities. It is designed to be a three-player experience, similar to a raid but shorter and less time-consuming. The dungeon takes place in a dark, labyrinthine environment, filled with eerie architecture and formidable enemies. The main goal is to navigate through various stages, defeat bosses, solve intricate puzzles, and ultimately reach the final encounter.
The Shattered Throne is part of the Forsaken expansion, released in 2018, and it can be found within the Dreaming City — a location steeped in mystery and teeming with secrets. It’s an end-game activity that tests the skill and teamwork of guardians, making it a favorite among players who enjoy challenging content.
Origin of the Shattered Throne
The Shattered Throne was introduced with the Forsaken expansion, which marked a turning point in Destiny 2’s story and gameplay design. The dungeon was Bungie’s first attempt at creating a new type of activity that blended elements of both strikes and raids, aiming to provide a deep, soloable experience or a tough, cooperative challenge for small teams.
Lore-wise, the Shattered Throne is a manifestation of the Dreaming City’s curse, a pocket universe where the Awoken Queen Mara Sov once held dominion. The area is filled with Taken enemies, a dark and corrupted force that has invaded the Dreaming City. It’s said that the dungeon is a test for guardians, designed to prepare them for greater battles to come.
Key Features of the Shattered Throne
- Mini-Raid Experience: The dungeon offers a condensed raid-like experience, with complex encounters and puzzles that require strategy and coordination.
- Epic Boss Fights: The Shattered Throne features three main boss encounters, including the final boss, Dûl Incaru, the Eternal Return, who poses a formidable challenge.
- Unique Puzzles: The dungeon includes various puzzles that require guardians to think critically, such as navigating labyrinths and deciphering symbols.
- Stunning Visuals: The Dreaming City’s ethereal beauty is on full display in the Shattered Throne, featuring vast, gothic-inspired structures and otherworldly aesthetics.
- Hidden Secrets and Lore: The dungeon is filled with hidden lore entries and collectibles that provide deeper insight into the Dreaming City’s story.
Applications of the Shattered Throne
The Shattered Throne offers several key applications for players:
- End-Game Content: As a high-level dungeon, it provides a challenging activity for seasoned players looking for difficult PvE encounters.
- Solo Play Challenge: The Shattered Throne is a popular destination for players attempting solo flawless runs, adding an extra layer of difficulty.
- Loot and Rewards: Completing the dungeon yields powerful rewards, including exclusive gear and cosmetics.
- Lore Exploration: For lore enthusiasts, the Shattered Throne offers deep storytelling elements tied to the Awoken and the Dreaming City.
Significance of the Shattered Throne in Destiny 2
The introduction of the Shattered Throne was a game-changer for Destiny 2. It bridged the gap between traditional strikes and full-scale raids, providing players with a unique activity that could be completed in shorter sessions while still offering raid-like mechanics. It also marked the beginning of a new type of content — dungeons, which have since become a staple in the game’s expansions.
The dungeon is also significant for its connection to the Dreaming City’s curse cycle, a three-week rotation where the Dreaming City undergoes changes in difficulty and available activities. The Shattered Throne is only accessible during the peak of the curse cycle, adding to its mystique and exclusivity.
Advantages and Disadvantages of the Shattered Throne
Advantages
- High Replay Value: The intricate design and tough encounters make it a dungeon worth revisiting.
- Rewarding Experience: Offers exclusive loot and triumphs for players who complete it.
- Team Building: Requires coordination and communication, making it great for bonding with friends or clan members.
- Accessible Solo Play: While challenging, it can be completed solo, providing an exciting goal for solo players.
- Lore Depth: Rich in story elements that enhance the overall narrative of the Dreaming City and the Awoken.
Disadvantages
- High Difficulty: New players or those without adequate gear may struggle with the dungeon’s tough enemies and puzzles.
- Limited Availability: Only accessible during specific weeks of the Dreaming City’s curse cycle, limiting when players can enter.
- Time-Consuming: While shorter than a full raid, the dungeon can still take considerable time, especially for inexperienced players.
- No Matchmaking: Requires pre-made teams or solo play, which can be challenging for players without a reliable group.
- Learning Curve: The complex mechanics and puzzles may require several attempts to master.
Unique Aspects of the Shattered Throne Map
- The Labyrinthine Design: Unlike most Destiny 2 activities, the Shattered Throne features a maze-like layout that requires exploration and map navigation skills.
- Symbol-Based Puzzles: Many encounters involve deciphering symbols, adding a unique element of puzzle-solving that sets it apart from other activities.
- Solo Flawless Triumphs: Completing the dungeon solo without dying is considered one of the toughest challenges in the game, earning guardians a prestigious title and emblem.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the Shattered Throne in Destiny 2?
The Shattered Throne is a dungeon activity in Destiny 2, resembling a mini-raid with tough enemies and complex puzzles. - Where is the Shattered Throne located?
It’s located in the Dreaming City, accessible during the peak of the city’s curse cycle. - Can the Shattered Throne be completed solo?
Yes, but it is highly challenging and requires advanced skills and gear. - What kind of rewards can I get from the Shattered Throne?
Rewards include exclusive weapons, armor, lore items, and powerful gear drops. - How do I access the Shattered Throne?
It is accessible from the Dreaming City map during specific weeks when the curse is at its strongest. - How many bosses are in the Shattered Throne?
There are three main bosses, including the final encounter with Dûl Incaru. - What is the recommended power level for the Shattered Throne?
The recommended power level is typically around 1040, but higher levels are advised for solo runs. - Is there matchmaking for the Shattered Throne?
No, players must form their own fireteam or attempt the dungeon solo. - Can I get exclusive triumphs from the Shattered Throne?
Yes, there are several triumphs tied to completing the dungeon, including solo flawless runs. - Why is the Shattered Throne only available at certain times?
It aligns with the Dreaming City’s curse cycle, adding a narrative and gameplay connection.
Conclusion
The Shattered Throne is a standout experience in Destiny 2, offering a thrilling adventure filled with challenging encounters and intricate puzzles. It showcases the best of what the game has to offer — from stunning visuals and deep lore to high-level combat and rewarding gameplay. Whether you’re tackling it solo for the ultimate challenge or teaming up with friends for a cooperative experience, the Shattered Throne is a memorable journey that every Destiny 2 player should undertake. With its unique design and unforgettable boss fights, it remains a beloved part of the Dreaming City and a highlight of the Forsaken expansion.
