With theSeason of the Wishjust about to release,Destiny 2is about to enterone of the most important periodsof its lifecycle. While PvE content is the obvious draw for the game, its PvP has been getting some upgrades as well, such as the Checkmate modifier.
The Checkmate match modifier was first introduced toDestiny 2duringthe ongoing Season of the Witch, poised to massively revamp how any affected match plays in practice. When Checkmate is active, all Guardians get more health, their abilities recharge differently, and their weapons have different damage profiles than they otherwise would’ve. A big revamp, for sure, and below, we’ll explain in detail how it all works in practice.
What does Checkmate do in Destiny 2 PvP?
Though the changes sound subtle at a glance,Destiny 2‘s Checkmate PvP modifier is, in fact, a transformative experience when it’s active. On top of featuring different weapon damage profiles, which aretoo numerous to keep track ofin the first place, the biggest changes compared to regular PvP are the following:
In other words, Checkmate leads to longer time-to-kill with far less ability spam than there usually is inDestiny 2PvP. On top of that, not having easy and ready access to Special ammo means players need to rely much more heavily on their regular, primary ammo gear. This, too, contributes to Checkmate matches feeling slower and more methodical, with tactics playing a much bigger role than they otherwise do.
“The goal with Checkmate is to provide a game mode that encourages and rewards solid decision-making and gunplay skills, while still being the Destiny 2 you know today,”Bungie saidahead of the modifier’s release, back in mid-September 2023. For the most part, it does seem that the PvP team accomplished their goals here.
No starting Special ammo makes a big difference
Obviously, the increased amount of Guardian health and de-emphasized abilities are a big change of pace all on their own, but the lack of Special ammo is equally important, in our experience.
Notably, you only receive special ammo in Destiny 2 Checkmate matches by taking down other players (final blows only), completing the given objective, and collecting heavy ammo. This means that you may still use your special (green ammo) weaponry, such as shotguns and fusion rifles, but much more sparingly than in regular PvP.
Checkmate is, therefore, not rife with one-shot-kills, and offers a more level playing field to most Guardians.
