??

??
Information

?? is a power level indicator in Destiny 2 that appears above enemies when they are significantly higher than the player's current Power Level.

Overview

When an enemy displays "??" instead of a numerical power level, it indicates that the enemy is at least 50 Power Levels above the player. This system prevents under-leveled Guardians from engaging with content designed for higher-level play.

Mechanics

Power Level Threshold

• Enemies show ?? when they are 50 or more Power Levels above the player
• This threshold was different in the original Destiny (4 levels)
• The exact power level remains hidden until the player reaches appropriate levels

Damage Immunity

Enemies marked with ?? are characterized by:

• Complete damage immunity - All attacks deal 0 damage
• Immune text appears when attempting damage
• Cannot be killed by any means regardless of weapon or ability
• Will still react to being shot (aggro mechanics remain active)

Identification

Visual Indicators

• Two question marks (??) displayed above enemy health bar
• Replace the normal numerical power level display
• Red skull icon may also appear
• Health bar shows no damage when attacked

Combat Feedback

• "Immune" message appears with each hit
• No damage numbers displayed
• Enemies can still damage the player normally
• Status effects and debuffs typically don't apply

Encountering ?? Enemies

Common Locations

• High-level Lost Sectors
• Endgame patrol zones
• Raid encounters when under-leveled
• Nightfall strikes above recommended power
• Seasonal content with power requirements

New Player Experience

• Often encountered when exploring new destinations
• Serves as natural progression gate
• Indicates areas to return to later
• Common in Europa and The Dreaming City

Strategy

When Encountering ?? Enemies

1. Retreat immediately - Combat is impossible 2. Note location - Return when properly leveled 3. Check Power Level - Ensure you meet area requirements 4. Focus on progression - Complete level-appropriate content

Power Level Management

• Equip highest Power Level gear
• Complete Powerful Gear milestones
• Focus on Pinnacle rewards
• Use Season Pass power bonuses

Comparison to Other Indicators

• Red Sword Icon: Enemies slightly above player level (difficult but possible)
• Numerical Display: Enemies within engagement range
• No Indicator: Enemies at or below player level
• ??: Enemies far above player level (impossible)

Historical Context

Destiny 1 System

• Threshold was only 4 levels above player
• Damage reduction scaled with level difference
• "??" enemies were damageable but extremely difficult

Destiny 2 Changes

• Increased threshold to 50 Power Levels
• Complete immunity system implemented
• Clearer content gating mechanism
• Part of guided player progression

Common Misconceptions

• Not a bug: Working as intended game mechanic
• Not random: Based on specific Power Level calculations
• Not permanent: Changes as player level increases
• Not tied to difficulty settings: Based solely on Power Level difference

Notes

• Similar systems exist in other MMO games
• Prevents power-leveling through high-level content
• Encourages appropriate progression paths
• Some activities have minimum Power Level floors

References

• Steam Community - Question Mark Enemies Discussion
• Arqade - How to Damage ?? Level Enemies
• Bungie.net Forums - Question Mark Enemies
• Bungie.net Forums - All Enemies Are Immune