Ascendant Shards are one of the most coveted resources in Destiny 2. These elusive items are essential for upgrading your gear to its maximum potential, ensuring that your Guardian is as powerful as possible. However, acquiring Ascendant Shards is not a simple task; it requires a combination of strategic planning, patience, and a deep understanding of the game’s mechanics. In this guide, we’ll explore the various methods to obtain Ascendant Shards, provide tips for maximizing your efforts, and ensure you’re well-equipped to enhance your gear to its highest potential.
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How to Get Ascendant Shards in Destiny 2
Ascendant Shards are a high-value currency in Destiny 2, primarily used for Masterworking Legendary and Exotic armor pieces. Masterworking armor increases the number of stats it provides and grants a bonus to each stat, making your gear significantly more effective in both PvE and PvP activities. As a result, Ascendant Shards are critical for players aiming to optimize their loadouts and build the best possible Guardian.
Where to Get Ascendant Shards
- Nightfall: The OrdealOne of the most reliable methods to acquire Ascendant Shards is by completing high-difficulty tiers of Nightfall: The Ordeal. Grandmaster Nightfalls, in particular, offer a guaranteed Ascendant Shard upon completion, along with a chance for additional Shards as a reward for scoring above certain thresholds.To succeed in Grandmaster Nightfalls, you’ll need a well-coordinated fireteam, top-tier gear, and a solid understanding of the specific modifiers and challenges that each Nightfall presents. It’s a difficult but rewarding task, and for many Guardians, it’s the primary method for farming Ascendant Shards.
- Season PassAnother way to earn Ascendant Shards is through the Seasonal Pass. By progressing through the ranks of the Season Pass, you’ll unlock various rewards, including Ascendant Shards at higher levels. This method is particularly beneficial for players who actively engage in seasonal content and can progress through the pass quickly.If you’re not already participating in the seasonal content, consider doing so. Not only will you gain Ascendant Shards, but you’ll also earn other valuable resources and gear to enhance your overall gameplay experience.
- Master and Grandmaster Lost SectorsMaster and Grandmaster Lost Sectors are solo challenges that, when completed, offer a chance to earn an Ascendant Shard as part of the final chest’s loot pool. These Lost Sectors rotate daily, offering different rewards each time, so keeping track of which ones are available can help you target specific resources.It’s important to note that these Lost Sectors are not easy. They require precise loadouts and a thorough understanding of enemy mechanics. However, for the dedicated Guardian, they represent another consistent way to farm for Ascendant Shards.
- Vendor Rank RewardsCertain vendors, such as Zavala and Shaxx, offer Ascendant Shards as rewards for ranking up their respective reputations. For example, reaching specific rank milestones in the Vanguard or Crucible can reward you with an Ascendant Shard.To maximize your chances of earning these rewards, engage regularly in Vanguard Strikes, Crucible matches, or Gambit games, depending on the vendor you’re focusing on. Consistently playing these activities will help you rank up faster, bringing you closer to those valuable Ascendant Shards.
- The Tower: Banshee-44Banshee-44, the Gunsmith in the Tower, offers Ascendant Shards for purchase in exchange for a combination of materials: Glimmer, Enhancement Prisms, and Enhancement Cores. This method is particularly useful for players who have accumulated a large number of these resources.The key to this approach is efficient resource management. Make sure you’re regularly completing activities that reward Enhancement Cores and Prisms so that you can exchange them for Ascendant Shards when needed. Additionally, keep an eye on Banshee’s inventory, as his offers rotate regularly.
Maximizing Your Ascendant Shard Acquisition
- Efficient FarmingTo maximize your Ascendant Shard acquisition, focus on the most efficient farming methods available. Grandmaster Nightfalls are undoubtedly the most reliable source, but they’re also the most challenging. If you’re not yet ready for Grandmaster difficulty, consider focusing on Master Nightfalls or farming materials for Banshee-44.Additionally, plan your play sessions around the weekly reset, which brings new opportunities and refreshed rewards. Prioritize activities that align with your strengths and your fireteam’s abilities, and make sure to communicate effectively with your teammates to ensure success.
- Resource ManagementManaging your resources efficiently is crucial for maximizing your Ascendant Shard acquisition. Regularly engage in activities that reward Enhancement Cores and Prisms, and be mindful of how you spend them. Avoid using these resources on gear that isn’t part of your final loadout, as doing so will deplete your stock and leave you with fewer resources to purchase Ascendant Shards when needed.
- Team CoordinationMany of the activities that reward Ascendant Shards, such as Grandmaster Nightfalls and Master Lost Sectors, are challenging and require precise coordination with your fireteam. Make sure to communicate effectively, plan your strategies in advance, and be prepared to adapt to the specific challenges each activity presents.If you’re struggling with a particular activity, consider reaching out to the Destiny 2 community for advice or teaming up with experienced players who can help guide you through the content. Joining a clan can also provide access to a more consistent and skilled group of players, which can make a significant difference in your success rate.
Conclusion
Obtaining Ascendant Shards in Destiny 2 is a challenging but rewarding endeavor. By focusing on high-level activities like Grandmaster Nightfalls, participating in seasonal content, and managing your resources wisely, you can consistently acquire the Ascendant Shards needed to Masterwork your gear and optimize your Guardian for the toughest challenges in the game.
Remember, patience and persistence are key. As you continue to hone your skills and refine your strategies, you’ll find that Ascendant Shards become more accessible, allowing you to fully unleash the potential of your Guardian. Good luck, and may the Light be with you!