Rift (Game Mode)

Rift
Information

Rift is a 6v6 objective-based PvP game mode in Destiny 2's Crucible. Originally featured in Destiny, it was reintroduced to Destiny 2 in Season of the Haunted as an Iron Banner exclusive mode. The mode functions as a reverse capture-the-flag game where teams must capture a central spark and deliver it to the enemy team's rift.

Overview

Rift challenges teams to work together in an objective-focused environment. Unlike traditional deathmatch modes, success in Rift requires coordinated team play, map control, and strategic timing. The mode emphasizes both offensive pushes to deliver the Spark and defensive stands to protect your team's rift.

Game Mechanics

Objectives

• Primary Goal: Pick up the Spark from the map's center and dunk it in the enemy team's rift
• Win Conditions:
  • First team to score 5 successful dunks wins
  • Team with most points when time expires wins
• Round System: Each successful dunk resets the round, respawning all players

The Spark

• Spawn Timing:
  • Begins charging ~6 seconds into a round
  • Becomes available for pickup after ~20 seconds total
• Pickup Requirements: Player must not be taking damage
• Spark Timer: Runner has 75 seconds before automatic detonation
• Visibility: Runner appears on radar for 5 seconds after pickup

Spark Runner

The player carrying the Spark gains:

• Weapon Usage: Can use all weapons (unlike Destiny 1)
• Ability Usage: Can use grenades, melees, and class abilities
• Super Restriction: Cannot activate Super while carrying Spark
• Buffs: Receives weapon and ability enhancements
• Target Priority: Marked for enemy team

Scoring

Points are awarded for:

• Distance Checkpoints: +100 points per checkpoint (up to +500)
• Successful Dunk: +800 points
• Standard Kills: Regular Crucible scoring applies
• Assists and Support: Team play actions award points

Maps

Rift is currently available on three maps:

1. Bannerfall: Classic symmetrical map with multiple routes
2. Convergence: Vex-themed map with vertical elements
3. Disjunction: Large Throne World map favoring long-range combat

Respawn System

• Timer: 10-second respawn delay
• Manual Respawn: Must press button to respawn
• Team Revives: Teammates can revive during 10-second window
• Revive Duration: 3-5 seconds to complete revive
• Strategic Element: Revive system can lead to momentum swings

Iron Banner Integration

• Exclusivity: Currently only available during Iron Banner events
• Mercy Rule: Activated after three consecutive dunks by one team
• Seasonal Rotation: Featured during specific Iron Banner weeks
• Reputation Gains: Awards Iron Banner reputation

Strategy

Offensive Strategy

• Control middle area before Spark spawns
• Clear enemies before pickup
• Coordinate team pushes with Spark runner
• Use alternate routes to avoid predictable paths
• Time Super usage for clearing rifts

Defensive Strategy

• Maintain map control around your rift
• Collapse on Spark runner quickly
• Use area denial abilities near rift
• Coordinate team shooting on runner
• Prioritize revives to maintain numbers

Differences from Destiny 1

• Round-based: Resets after each dunk (D1 was continuous)
• Manual Respawn: With revive option (D1 had auto-respawn)
• Weapon Usage: Spark runners can shoot (D1 restricted weapons)
• Map Pool: Limited to 3 maps (D1 had more variety)
• Availability: Iron Banner exclusive (D1 was regular playlist)

Known Issues

• Transmat Loop: Players experiencing infinite loading
• Balance Concerns: Revive mechanics can cause snowballing
• Limited Maps: Only three maps in rotation
• Matchmaking: Connection-based can create skill gaps

Community Reception

The return of Rift received mixed reactions:

• Positive: Objective focus and team play requirements
• Negative: Snowball potential and limited availability
• Requests: Make available outside Iron Banner
• Comparisons: Some prefer original Destiny 1 implementation

Tips for Success

1. Communication: Call out Spark location and enemy positions
2. Loadout: Balance between clearing enemies and runner protection
3. Timing: Learn Spark spawn intervals
4. Map Knowledge: Know optimal routes for each map
5. Team Composition: Mix of slayers and objective players

Trivia

• Rift was one of the most requested returning modes from Destiny 1
• The mode's name references the dimensional rifts in Destiny lore
• Originally planned for earlier seasons but delayed for polish
• Features unique voice lines from Lord Shaxx and Lord Saladin

References

• Destiny 2: Season of the Haunted
• Iron Banner game mode rotation
• Bungie TWAB announcements
• Community feedback forums