Destiny 2's Season of the Chosen begins, offers new loot and seasonal activity

What you need to know

• Season of the Chosen, Destiny 2's 13th season, has officially launched on all platforms. It runs from February 9, 2021 to May 11, 2021.
• There are over 25 new weapons to obtain during the season, including two new Exotics. There are also new armor sets to earn.
• Additionally, there's also a three-player matchmade seasonal activity available called Battlegrounds where players fight Cabal warriors in ritual combat to earn gear.
• There are also three new Strikes coming, including two returning from the first Destiny and one brand new Strike.

Destiny 2 developer Bungie has officially launched Season of the Chosen, Destiny 2's 13th season. The season will run from February 9, 2021, until May 11, 2021. Story-wise, this season focuses on the Cabal leader Empress Caiatl and her temper with Guardians after negotiations for an alliance break down as the threat of the Darkness Pyramids looms. We'll be challenging her primarily through a new three-player matchmade activity called Battlegrounds where players fight against Caiatl's chosen warriors in ritual combat.

In terms of loot, there are over 25 new weapons available in Season of the Chosen, including two new Exotics. The first is the Ticuu's Divination bow, which can fire multiple Solar arrows at once that are also capable of tracking targets. The second Exotic weapon is unknown for now, but the Exotic quest for it will unlock later in the season. There are also some new armor sets to earn, including the Praefectus set and a brand new armor set for Trials of Osiris.

There are also three new Strikes arriving this season. Two of them, Devil's Lair and Fallen S.A.B.E.R., are available now and have returned from the original Destiny. Proving Grounds is the final Strike and is completely new, and it will become available to all players on March 30, 2021 (season pass holders get access a week early). Also, the PvP event Iron Banner and the Olympics-style Guardian Games activity will be available during Season of the Chosen. Make sure to check out the season's homepage for more information on some of the other things being added to the game during the season.

What do you think of what's on offer for Season of the Chosen? Let me know. Personally, I wasn't a huge fan of Season of the Hunt (Season 12), so I'm hoping that Season of the Chosen offers a better overall experience. Keep in mind that you'll need $10 worth of Silver (Destiny 2's in-game currency) to buy Season of the Chosen's season pass. The latest expansion, Destiny 2: Beyond Light, is also available for $40. If you haven't tried out Destiny 2 yet, I highly recommend doing so as it's one of the best Xbox One shooters available. Make sure you check out my beginner's guide on how to get into Destiny 2 in 2021 for helpful information if you do!