Los Angeles, CA – Destiny 2 players are facing a new dilemma with the release of the expansion called “The Final Shape.” While the expansion has been well-received overall, there is one major issue causing uproar among the gaming community.
The problem arises from the pursuit of exotic class items, coveted pieces of gear that offer powerful advantages in the game. However, obtaining these items has become a tedious and frustrating task, leading many players to resort to AFK macros to automate the farming process. This practice, known as AFK farming, has become so widespread that game developer Bungie is taking action to address it.
In response to the rise in AFK farming, Bungie announced changes to its terms of service to prohibit players from using automation tools to earn loot illegitimately. Players caught using AFK macros to bypass gameplay restrictions or automate activities for loot may face penalties, including restrictions or bans. The loot in question includes experience points, materials, and drops such as exotic class items.
The root of the issue lies in the arduous grind required to acquire specific exotic items with optimal perks for building characters. Players have turned to AFK farming in activities like Overthrow and Dual Destiny due to the challenges posed by the randomness of drops and the repetitive nature of the gameplay loop. This has led some players on PC to use scripts to automate the chest looting process, particularly after recent changes negatively impacted drop rates.
The method of AFK farming involves loading into specific patrol zones and repeatedly looting chests in hopes of obtaining exotic class items. While some players have defended the practice as harmless if done solo, Bungie is cracking down on such behavior to maintain fair gameplay standards. The studio’s decision has generally been well-received by the community, with many players acknowledging the need for a change.
As Bungie works to address the issue of AFK farming, players are hopeful that upcoming changes, such as adjustments to the vendor XUR, will alleviate the frustrations that led to this behavior. While the use of macros may provide a shortcut for some players, the ultimate goal is to improve the overall gaming experience and incentivize active gameplay over automation.