In a troubling turn of events for the gaming community, Destiny 2 has recently experienced a significant drop in its player base. According to data from Steam, the game has seen its average player count fall to just 32,497 over the past month. This represents a dramatic decrease from its peak player numbers and highlights the ongoing difficulties facing the popular online shooter.
Since its release, Destiny 2 has experienced fluctuations in its player base, with notable increases during major content updates and expansions. Historically, the game’s player numbers have surged with the launch of new seasons and significant expansions, only to dip during quieter periods. The game follows a seasonal model, which has generally allowed it to maintain a steady player count compared to its predecessor. However, recent figures suggest that the game’s most successful days may be behind it.
Recent statistics reveal that Destiny 2 has reached a new low, with an average of only 32,497 monthly players on Steam. This marks a stark decline from the peak of 123,023 average players recorded during the release of the Final Shape expansion. The drop is even more pronounced when considering the game’s performance across other platforms, where the total average player base stands at approximately 469,180. Previous expansions, such as The Witch Queen and Lightfall, saw average player numbers of 60,961 and 62,610, respectively, further emphasising the steep decline following the Final Shape expansion.
Bungie, the developer behind Destiny 2, has confirmed that the game remains part of a long-term plan, with ongoing support intended for the foreseeable future. However, recent events have cast a shadow over the game’s prospects. Earlier this year, Bungie faced a significant setback with the layoff of approximately 220 employees, a decision driven by rising development costs and a company-wide reorganisation. This restructuring has raised concerns about the scale and frequency of future content updates and expansions.
Adding to the uncertainty, Bungie was recently acquired by Sony for a substantial £3.6 billion, leading to speculation about potential new projects and shifts in focus. While the studio has dismissed any plans for Destiny 3, the acquisition by Sony suggests that significant changes could be on the horizon, potentially affecting both Destiny 2 and Bungie’s upcoming title, Marathon.
Despite these challenges, Bungie remains committed to supporting Destiny 2. The game’s free-to-play model continues to offer an entry point for new players, which could help mitigate the current decline in numbers. Future content updates and expansions may reinvigorate the player base, potentially leading to a resurgence in engagement.
In summary, while Destiny 2 is currently facing a notable decline in player numbers, there remains potential for recovery. Bungie’s ongoing support and the game’s free-to-play nature could provide opportunities for revitalisation. However, the impact of recent layoffs and the broader implications of the Sony acquisition will likely influence the game’s trajectory in the coming months. As the gaming community observes these developments, it remains to be seen how Destiny 2 will navigate these challenges and whether it can once again capture the interest of its once-vibrant player base.
