Destiny: Rising Kicks Off Closed Alpha Test—What Players Can Expect from Bungie’s Mobile RPG

Today marks an exciting milestone for fans of the Destiny franchise and mobile gaming enthusiasts alike: Destiny: Rising, the mobile RPG based on Bungie’s acclaimed shooter series, has officially launched its closed alpha test. This highly anticipated phase began on November 1 and will run until December 5 at 11:59 PM PT. For those fortunate enough to receive an invitation, this is a chance to delve into a unique interpretation of the Destiny universe on mobile devices.

The Closed Alpha Experience

Open exclusively to players in the US and Canada, the closed alpha offers a tantalizing glimpse into what Destiny: Rising has to offer. Starting today at 9 AM PT / 12 PM ET, players can expect to see gameplay footage surfacing as participants dive into the available content. For those who haven’t yet signed up for a chance to join the alpha, you can still register on the Destiny: Rising website.

So, what can players look forward to during this testing period? The alpha includes a selection of content designed to provide a taste of the full game’s scope. Participants will have access to the prologue of the main story campaign, which sets the stage for the narrative that unfolds throughout the game. Additionally, players can engage in three public events and two strike missions, allowing them to experience some of the cooperative gameplay that Destiny is known for.

One of the standout features of the closed alpha is the inclusion of Gauntlet—a raid-like, six-player mode that promises to test players’ skills and teamwork. This mode adds a layer of intensity and excitement, reminiscent of the larger raids from the mainline Destiny games. Furthermore, players can explore various game modes such as Morgran’s Prey, The Realm of the IX, Legacy, and Shifting Gates, alongside “casual activities” that provide lighter gameplay experiences between missions.

A Rich Legacy and New Beginnings

The emergence of Destiny: Rising follows a leak in September that hinted at a mobile adaptation of the beloved franchise. This development is a significant shift for Bungie, particularly in light of its partnership with NetEase. Back in 2018, NetEase invested a staggering $100 million into Bungie for the development of non-Destiny projects. However, with Destiny: Rising firmly rooted in the Destiny lore, it raises questions about the trajectory of this partnership and what other collaborations may be on the horizon.

This mobile RPG represents not just an expansion of the Destiny universe but also an exploration of new gameplay mechanics tailored for mobile platforms. As players dive into the alpha, they’ll experience how Bungie adapts its signature gunplay and lore-rich storytelling to a format that caters to on-the-go gaming.

Bungie’s Evolution: From Destiny to New Frontiers

While the excitement around Destiny: Rising builds, it’s important to note that Bungie is not resting on its laurels. The studio is simultaneously working on several other projects, including Marathon, a survival shooter that is generating its own buzz. This multi-project approach reflects Bungie’s ambition to diversify its portfolio and explore new genres while continuing to build on the Destiny franchise.

However, 2024 has brought significant changes to Bungie, including mass layoffs that impacted numerous senior staff members. Such upheaval can shake the foundations of any studio, and it will be interesting to see how these changes influence Bungie’s ongoing projects, including Destiny: Rising and Marathon.

As Bungie navigates this transitional period, it’s clear that the company is committed to delivering high-quality experiences for its players. The development of Destiny: Rising could signal a new chapter for Bungie as it leverages its expertise in creating engaging gameplay and rich narratives for a mobile audience.

What Does This Mean for Players?

For players, the closed alpha of Destiny: Rising presents an exciting opportunity to be among the first to experience this innovative mobile RPG. Engaging with the game during its testing phase allows players not only to enjoy the content but also to provide feedback that could shape the final product.

Participating in an alpha test often means encountering bugs and incomplete features, but it also provides a unique chance to witness the development process in action. Players can expect to experience gameplay that stays true to the core elements of Destiny while being adapted for mobile play. This means the familiar gunplay, cooperative elements, and deep lore that fans love will be present, albeit in a new form.

Community and Collaboration

One of the most exciting aspects of the closed alpha is the potential for community involvement. Bungie has a long-standing tradition of engaging with its player base, and the alpha is no exception. Players are encouraged to share their experiences, thoughts, and suggestions, fostering a collaborative environment that can significantly enhance the game’s development.

Feedback from the alpha will be crucial in fine-tuning gameplay mechanics, balancing challenges, and ensuring that the narrative resonates with players. This collaborative spirit not only enriches the game but also strengthens the bond between Bungie and its community.

The Future of Destiny: Rising

Looking ahead, the release of Destiny: Rising has the potential to attract a new audience to the franchise while retaining its loyal fan base. The mobile RPG format opens up the possibility for more casual players to engage with the Destiny universe, exploring its rich lore and thrilling gameplay without the commitment required by larger console or PC titles.

As players embark on their journeys through the closed alpha, the success of Destiny: Rising could influence how Bungie approaches future projects. If the alpha test is well-received, we might see the studio expand its efforts in mobile gaming, potentially leading to more adaptations of its beloved franchises.