Which game is better Halo or Destiny 2?

As a passionate gamer and content creator, readers often ask me "which game is better – Halo Infinite or Destiny 2?" Rather than make a value judgment, I think it‘s more constructive to compare the key strengths of each franchise.

Background and Appeal

Halo is a seminal FPS franchise developed originally by Bungie and now managed by 343 Industries. Known for its epic sci-fi storyline, Halo attracts gamers looking for a strong single-player campaign with rich lore and settings.

Destiny, also originally created by Bungie, is an always-online shared world FPS that pioneered the "looter shooter" genre. Its strength lies in co-op missions, raids, and competitive multiplayer like Trials of Osiris. Destiny appeals to gamers craving a social, community-focused experience.

So while both are shooters with Bungie DNA, Halo leans traditional FPS while Destiny focuses on RPG elements and multiplayer endgame.

Gameplay and Progression

Core gameplay in both franchises is universally praised. Halo‘s campaigns mix open-ended areas full of secrets with bombastic, challenging combat encounters. Multiplayer offers equal starts and map control-focused modes like Slayer and Capture the Flag.

Destiny provides extremely satisfying gunplay and movement, with subclasses providing unique abilities to customize your playstyle. The progression system offers deep RPG customization through armor stats and builds. Endgame activities require coordination – like raid encounters or Trials cards – that depend more on skill than just power level.

So Halo is an even playing field where map knowledge and reflexes determine the outcome, while Destiny requires fine-tuning a personalized character to take on specialized endgame challenges.

Post-Launch Support and Engagement

Here we see major differences that inform gaming priorities. Halo Infinite‘s first year struggled due to a lack of content updates, especially compared to prior Halos. Combined with technical issues, it saw its Steam population drop below 3,000 players at one point. Halo excels at campaign but depends on Map Packs to refresh PvP.

In contrast, Destiny 2 utilizes a seasonal structure with new activities, gear to chase, and evolving meta every 3 months. This cadence continuously brings players back – Destiny 2 had over 1 million daily players 6 years after launch. However, its narrative is fractured across seasonal content drops.

So Halo players thirsty for campaign DLC may be disappointed, while Destiny gamers avoid story spoilers between Seasons but enjoy regular content updates.

Analyst Projections on the Franchises‘ Futures

Based on roadmaps from 343i and Bungie, analysts predict different trajectories.

Halo Infinite has at least 2 campaign DLCs planned in the next 3 years. But a report by Insider Gaming states "If Halo Infinite does not see marked improvement by early 2024 in terms of quality, content cadence, and overall gameplay loop, Microsoft might pull the plug on the game." A faster content pace is badly needed.

Destiny 2 meanwhile has robust plans, including yearly expansions out to at least 2025. Bungie recently raised $100 million to build more multiplayer capabilities. And rumors suggest Sony may be negotiating to acquire Bungie, which would provide even more long-term security.

So while Infinite‘s future seems dependent on reversing its first-year issues, Destiny seems on solid footing for the next 5+ years at least.

Conclusions

Instead of declaring "Which is better," I think it‘s fair to say Halo Infinite had the potential to be the best-in-class Halo title thanks to its long-awaited sequel status, F2P multiplayer focus, and grappling hook innovation.

But unfortunately a lackluster post-launch roadmap has stalled momentum, and significant uncertainty now exists around Infinite‘s future viability. The burden is on 343 to prove it can sustain this platform.

Whereas for both loyalists and newcomers, Destiny 2 remains a safe bet for FPS fans wanting reliable content updates, evolving progression systems, and extremely replayable co-op and competitive modes to enjoy for years to come.

But of course, I encourage gamers to form their own opinions! Hopefully breaking down their distinctions here has provided some helpful insights. Please share your own thoughts in the comments.