The Final Shape: The Context Problem and Its Implications on Player Understanding

TLDRThe removal of seasonal content in Destiny is causing a loss of context for players, particularly with the upcoming release of The Final Shape expansion. New and returning players will struggle to understand key narrative elements without access to the seasonal content. This poses challenges for player onboarding and retention. Two potential solutions are discussed: a cinematic recap of important story details and the inclusion of recap videos or lore entries in-game.

Key insights

The removal of seasonal content creates a gap in player understanding and context for the upcoming expansion.

🔑New and returning players will struggle to comprehend key narrative elements without access to the seasonal content.

🎥A cinematic recap of important story details before The Final Shape can help bridge the gap in player understanding.

📚The inclusion of recap videos or lore entries in-game can provide additional context for players.

💡Addressing the context problem is crucial for player onboarding and retention in Destiny.

Q&A

Why is the removal of seasonal content a problem?

The seasonal content provides important narrative context and explanations for key story elements. Without access to this content, players will struggle to understand the story, especially new and returning players.

What are the implications for new players?

New players will be dropped into the final expansion without the necessary context and understanding of the previous year's seasonal content. This will make it challenging for them to comprehend the story and fully engage with the game.

How can the context problem be addressed?

One potential solution is to provide a cinematic recap of important story details before The Final Shape. Another solution is to include recap videos or lore entries in-game that explain key narrative elements for players who missed the seasonal content.

Why is addressing the context problem crucial?

The context problem directly impacts player onboarding and retention in Destiny. Without a clear understanding of the story and its elements, players may become confused and frustrated, leading to decreased engagement and interest in the game.

What can players do to support these solutions?

Players can provide feedback and express their desire for a cinematic recap or in-game recap videos/lore entries to Bungie. Community support and demand can influence the development decisions and prioritize the inclusion of these solutions.

Timestamped Summary

00:12The removal of seasonal content in Destiny is causing a loss of context for players.

06:28New and returning players will struggle to understand key narrative elements without access to the seasonal content.

15:45The context problem impacts player onboarding and retention in Destiny.

20:44Two potential solutions: cinematic recaps and in-game recap videos or lore entries.