A Decade in Waiting: Destiny Embraces True Horde Gameplay

For ten years, the guardians of Destiny have journeyed through time, faced cosmic threats, and forged alliances, all while the community pondered one enduring question: when will a true horde mode be added to the game? Bungie's history of bold choices in Destiny's evolution has often sidestepped a fully committed horde experience, teasing players with close relatives like Escalation Protocol. However, the tables are set to turn with the upcoming 'Into the Light' update and its central feature, Onslaught — a fresh game mode where players will stare down the barrel of relentless enemy waves.

Setting the Scene for Survival

Launching free on April 9, Onslaught dives straight into the narrative barricades where up to three-player teams face the encroaching darkness of 50 escalating waves. This mode isn't just a reckless surge of foes; players are tasked to protect an object called the Advanced Defense Unit (ADU). The formidable Lord Shaxx plays the dual role of quest-giver and combat commentator, lending his iconic voice to rally the defenders. Helpful Redjacks and defensive upgrades that include turrets, trip mines, and decoys will aid players in their mission. And as if the stakes weren’t high enough, players must manage a team-shared currency named 'Scrap' to keep their defenses robust and responsive.

Two Onslaughts, One Goal: Survive and Conquer

Onslaught will come in two flavors: a Playlist variant, making matchmaking a breeze for a quick-fire 10-wave session, and a Challenge variant, which scales up the ordeal to five intense 10-wave sets. While the Playlist may sound like an appetizing warm-up, it includes the ‘Darkness zone’ — a punishing mechanic that ends the run if all players fall. The challenge variant, on the other hand, is where the true test lies: resetting defense locations every 10 waves to keep players on their toes. Bungie designers seem skeptical of solo-clearing the full 50 waves, but that's just the sort of challenge that certain players itch to overcome.

Strategize, Adapt and Overcome

With an array of enemy types, including champions and ultra-tier adversaries, the latter waves of Onslaught promise to be a labyrinth of tactical maneuvering. This isn’t just a shootout — it's a test of strategic planning, with a need for crowd control, target prioritization, and ample sustain. Preparing for such an onslaught calls for fine-tuned load-outs tailored for both area and single-target engagement. Bungie's hints at the inclusion of formidable Tormentors in the mix serve as a sharp reminder that guardians will need each shred of their cunning and firepower to come out on top.

The Light Beckons: A New Chapter for Guardians

Onslaught isn’t just a long-awaited horde mode; it's a statement piece reflecting Destiny's enduring capacity to renew itself — a testament to Bungie's creative tenacity. As the Last City braces for the defense against The Witness, players worldwide are ready to stow their sharpest strategies, fortify alliances, and brave the relentless adversity of this new crucible. The April 9 update isn’t merely another chapter — it is poised to be a milestone in the Destiny saga, ringing true to the unwavering chorus of the fans. The guardians have their orders: rally to the Last City, hold the line and etch your names in the annals of Light.