Summary

  • Taken Phalanx enemies in Destiny 2 may have received an unexpected buff, making them tougher to defeat.
  • The recent Heresy update in Destiny 2 introduced new activities and rewards but made no mention of buffs for the Taken Phalanx.
  • Bungie has yet to confirm the Taken Phalanx buff, leaving players to face a potentially tougher challenge in the game.

Many Destiny 2 players have noticed that the Taken Phalanx enemies may have received an unexpected buff in the latest update. Released in 2017, the sci-fi shooter quickly became a hit with gamers. Known for its mix of PvE and PvP gameplay, along with a robust loot system, Destiny 2 has built a dedicated fanbase over the years. The game continues to offer seasonal content and expansions to keep things fresh, but the recent update seems to have included a surprise that caught many players off guard.

Destiny 2 is a direct sequel to the original hit title, with Destiny 1 still receiving updates in 2025. For many fans, the second installment is just as good, if not better, than its predecessor. It introduces a slew of changes, including a free-to-play model, cross-platform play, and numerous gameplay refinements. Destiny 2 also places much greater emphasis on delivering regular seasons and expansions, with the latest update seemingly including a surprise enemy buff.

destiny 2 episode heresy nether activity
Destiny 2 Announces Episode Heresy Act 2 Livestream Date and Time

Bungie reveals the date and time for a special Destiny 2 livestream to reveal the upcoming second act of Episode Heresy and its content.

A Reddit user named FrostWendigo recently posted claiming that the Taken Phalanx enemies feel more oppressive than in previous episodes. The suspected buffs come after the release of Destiny 2's recent Heresy episode, which introduced several new buffs and nerfs. However, the patch notes made no mention of any changes to the Taken Phalanx. FrostWendigo points out that the Taken Phalanx now hold their shields in front of their bodies, instead of to the side, as they did before.

Were Destiny 2's Taken Phalanx Enemies Secretly Buffed?

The Destiny 2 Heresy update launched in early February, introducing new The Nether activity, along with a wealth of rewards. It also brought a new armor structure and Heretical Arsenal Weapons, complementing the extensive buffs and nerfs it added. However, it's strange that the patch notes make no mention of buffs for the Taken Phalanx, especially considering the noticeable change in how they defend against attacks, making them a tougher opponent to defeat.

Destiny 2 features seven enemy factions, with the Taken Phalanx belonging to The Taken group. This faction consists of many unique enemies who serve their king, Oryx, and roam the universe wielding the power of the Darkness. Known for their large shields, Taken Phalanx are formidable foes, using their defensive abilities and equipment to block attacks. Even before the rumored buffs, they were already a challenging enemy due to their strong defensive capabilities in battle.

The Taken Phalanx buff has yet to be confirmed by Bungie, but many players in the comments section seem to agree that the enemy received new buffs in the latest update. The developer has a history of surprising its gamers. Last year, many fans got excited when some believed Bungie was teasing Destiny 3 with a cryptic tweet, but the developer has yet to announce a third installment in the series. For now, it seems players will face an even tougher challenge when encountering a Taken Phalanx.

Rating block community and brand ratings Image
Destiny 2 Tag Page Cover Art
Display card tags widget Display card system widget
Systems
Display card community and brand rating widget Display card open critics widget
Top Critic Avg: 84 /100 Critics Rec: 88%
Display card main info widget
Released
August 28, 2017
ESRB
T For TEEN for Blood, Language, and Violence
Developer(s)
Bungie
Publisher(s)
Bungie
Engine
Tiger Engine
Multiplayer
Online Multiplayer, Online Co-Op
Cross-Platform Play
PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One & Xbox Series X|S
Display card main info widget end Display card media widget start Display card media widget end

WHERE TO PLAY

DIGITAL
PHYSICAL
Checkbox: control the expandable behavior of the extra info

Genre(s)
FPS